Water Treatment Plant Operator - Water Treatment Plant

About Us

Brunswick County is a vibrant coastal community located in southeastern North Carolina with approximately 47 miles of idyllic beaches and an abundance of quaint countryside. While consistently ranked one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina, Brunswick County is steeped in history and hospitality, and both residents and visitors enjoy a laidback atmosphere, close-knit community, and plenty of coastal charm.

At Brunswick County we are committed to preserving our resources and enhancing the lives of our community through exceptional service. Join our team of talented staff and embark on a career where you will make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Our employees are our biggest asset, and we offer competitive wages, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for advancement.

Brunswick County Public Utility is currently accepting applications for a Water Treatment Operator to join our 211 Water Treatment Plant (WTP) located in Southport, North Carolina at 4305 Southport‑Supply Road SE. Brunswick County's 211 WTP is a 6 million gallon per day (MGD) drinking water facility that pulls water from the Castle Hayne Aquifer. The facility utilizes lime softening, up‑flow clarifiers, sand filtration and chlorination for disinfection.

The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for performing highly technical and specialized work related to the 211 Water Treatment Plant and associated distribution system, with the goal of providing overall high‑quality drinking water to Brunswick County. Work involves the operation of water treatment plant processes and related equipment, including:

• Collecting and testing water samples.
• Controlling mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and chemical feed systems associated with the water treatment process.
• Making flow rate changes and chemical dosing changes.
• Assisting in the preparation of a variety of reports and maintaining records related to the water treatment process.
• Answering inquiries and addressing concerns from the public.
• Performing janitorial and other duties as assigned, including working at other water treatment facilities in the county when needed.

Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to exercise independent judgement and demonstrate initiative in all phases of work is required. The Water Treatment Operator reports to the Chief Utility Plant Operator.

Brunswick County Public Utilities utilizes a career ladder program for advancement which allows employees to further their career in the water treatment field through promotion as advanced grades of NC Well Water Treatment Plant Operator certifications are attained. Promotions include a 5% increase in pay when all criteria are met.

• Individuals who do not possess a NC Grade C Well Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification will be hired at a Trainee level.
• Training and testing fees for water treatment operator certification are paid for by Brunswick County.
• Placement as a Water Treatment Operator I, II, III, or IV based on NC Well Water Certification level (Grade C, Grade B, Grade A, etc.) and experience.
• Employees with appropriate certification will be required to serve as Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC) or Back‑up ORC as necessary.

The 211 Water Treatment Plant operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Water Treatment Operators work 12‑hour rotating shifts Monday – Sunday (3 days on, 2 days off, 2 days on, 3 days off) with every other weekend off.

• Work schedules vary between 36 and 48 hours per week.
• Shifts at the 211 Treatment Plant are 7:30am – 7:30pm (Days) and 7:30pm – 7:30am (Nights).
• Plant Operators will rotate from a day shift schedule to a night shift schedule once every 4 weeks.
• Overtime is paid at time and one half after 40 hours worked in each work week.
• Operators working night shift hours will receive night shift differential pay at a rate of $2.50 per hour.

This position is considered an ESSENTIAL EMPLOYEE POSITION under County policy and will be required to work to maintain essential operations during inclement weather, non‑emergency closure, and/or closure due to a state of…