Water Plant Operator

Under the general direction of the Water Plant Foreman and Chief Operator, this position performs semi‑skilled and skilled tasks associated with the operation, maintenance and oversight of the City’s Water Intake and Treatment Plant.

This is a semi‑skilled or skilled position to provide competent operational oversight and management of the systems and equipment used in the daily production of potable water at a Class A Lake Michigan water intake and treatment plant. Work involves the use of multiple computer applications, including SCADA, to operate the water management systems, and reasoning ability and skills generally obtained by successful completion of advanced math or science classes.

A general understanding of electrical power associated with large electric motors, water pressure, water chemistry, and the knowledge and use of fluid formulas is helpful. Work may also include general maintenance at the water plant, and may include water tank cleaning, housekeeping, and other assistance that may be needed by contractors or other City employees. Housekeeping would include sweeping, mopping, dusting, washing of floors and windows, and any other needs as may arise.

Employees may be assigned tasks of a similar or higher level classification to gain experience and training in preparation for advancement. Basic personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn during the performance of assigned duties. Work is performed semi‑independently for the assigned shift by operating the controls that power pumps and valves that are required during the treatment of water by adhering to the AWWA Standards and Standard Operating Procedures that have or may be adopted by the AWWA and/or the City of North Chicago for ensuring optimal operation and maintenance of the City’s water intake and drinking water treatment plant.

The incumbent is responsible for completing all duties and reporting as defined for the position. Additional duties may be assigned as need arises. General direction is provided by the Water Plant Foreman and/or water personnel having superior knowledge or experience. Assignments may be verbal or in writing, and will follow the adopted SOP’s and time lines regarding the daily, weekly and other periodic duties.

The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that all equipment and supplies needed to successfully operate the water treatment plant are available and in working order at the beginning of the shift, including systems that regulate the dosage of the various chemicals used in the treatment of water. The incumbent may have to collect water samples, and will be required to make scheduled inspection rounds of the water plant to check on the plant security, and the operational status and integrity of the motors and pumps, noting deficiencies encountered or observed in the Operator’s Log for follow up action.

When deficiencies or abnormalities are encountered (may be determined through system detection or water sample analysis) it is expected that action be taken within the incumbent’s scope of authority to immediately correct the noted deficiency. When the deficiency is such that it is beyond the incumbent’s ability to correct, or if immediate action by others more experienced or knowledgeable is deemed necessary or required, the incumbent must immediately contact a more senior operator for direction.

The incumbent may be called upon at any time to answer questions related to shift activities, notes, or other issues as they arise. Daily work is reviewed by assessing the thoroughness and accuracy of shift reports required of the incumbent, and/or external laboratories water sample analysis. Guidance is provided through USEPA and ILEPA rules and regulations, and City of North Chicago policies and procedures pertaining to the operation of the water treatment plant.

Further guidance is provided by the City of North Chicago personnel rules, Employee Handbook, SEIU Agreement and other relevant regulatory, industry and/or safety agencies, such as OSHA and AWWA. Work is evaluated daily for the accurate, safe and skilled operation of equipment, quality tasks, adherence to work rules.…