Water Treatment Plant Operator, Supervisor

Position Description

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a Water Treatment Plant Operator, Supervisor to lead daily operations at a Level 4 water treatment facility and ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water to Seattle and its regional customers. This leadership role provides direction to treatment plant operators, sets operational priorities, and ensures compliance with complex regulatory and public health standards. You will apply advanced technical knowledge in water treatment processes, chemistry, engineering, and biology to guide plant operations, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance.

The role includes reviewing and signing regulatory reports, maintaining accurate operational records, and providing clear communication and guidance during routine activities and emergency responses. The Operator, Supervisor also fosters teamwork, mentors staff, and supports a safe, efficient, and collaborative work environment. If you are a skilled leader who excels in technical environments and enjoys supporting mission‑critical public service, SPU encourages you to apply.

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community‑centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), check out the:

• SPU Website
• SPU Workplace Expectations
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Hybrid work schedule opportunities (As Appropriate)
• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free Orca Pass
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

• Perform the duties of the Operator in Responsible Charge at the water treatment plant.
• Supervise, lead, train, and mentor other water treatment plant operators in the operation and maintenance of a Level 4 water treatment plant.
• Advanced understanding of drinking water treatment standards, regulations, and public health principles.
• Advanced knowledge of and experience with water treatment practices such as filtration, ozonation, and chlorination.
• Prepare accurate reports for regulatory compliance, performance tracking, and operational analysis, also sign off on the State Dept. of Health monthly regulatory reports.
• Provides input to regulatory policies and ensuring that the Treatment facility adheres to standards in ensuring safe drinking water.
• Operate computers and utilize software to accomplish the necessary input and output of information used to monitor equipment, record test data, track operations, and compile reports.
• As needed, perform the duties of a Senior Treatment Plant Operator and a Water Treatment Plant Operator.

* Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

Five (5) years working for a water utility including three (3) years of experience working in a Class 3 or higher water treatment plant.

Washington State Department of Health Level 4 Water Treatment Plant Operator certification or equivalent from another state within…