Technician, Maintenance & Relief Operator

Job Title:

Technician, Maintenance & Relief Operator

Posting

Start Date:

5/28/26

The Technician, Maintenance & Relief Operator supports plant operations by performing basic equipment maintenance, assisting with routine inspections, and learning essential treatment processes. This role develops foundational skills in plant operation, safety practices, and mechanical troubleshooting while working under close guidance. At times, the operator is required to run the treatment plant in accordance with all state and federal regulatory requirements.

• Troubleshoot, install, operate, maintain, inspect, repair, and perform preventive maintenance duties on equipment including pumps, blowers, motors, chemical feed equipment, screens, mixers, filters, flow meters, gauges, valves, wash water processing equipment, and related instrumentation and control systems. Calibrate and adjust chemical feed and process equipment.
• Monitor the treatment plant and adjust operations to control processes. Perform sampling, testing, and laboratory analysis to monitor compliance with federal, state, and American Water’s standards. Execute emergency operating procedures and take corrective action for continuous effective operation.
• Maintain all necessary records, tools, and work equipment. Perform maintenance and custodial duties.
• Perform light construction projects such as carpentry, plumbing, painting, electrical, masonry as needed. Specify and initiate orders for parts and supplies.
• Assume duties of Plant Operator when the operator is absent.
• Deliver, load, unload, and store water/wastewater treatment chemicals, including chemical receiving and inventory management.
• Maintain grounds, buildings, roadways, screens, reservoirs, and rights-of-way.
• Perform daily well run and associated processes during weekends or when assigned.
• Maintain and troubleshoot sewage collection or water distribution systems.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Ability to learn and understand operation of pumps, valves, motors, and related mechanical equipment.
• Basic awareness of water/wastewater treatment principles and process objectives.
• Knowledge of required safety procedures (PPE, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, electrical safety).
• Knowledge of emergency response protocols for plant systems, equipment failures, or chemical incidents.
• Understanding of computerized maintenance management programs.
• Awareness of applicable state and federal regulations and the importance of compliance.
• Effective quantitative and analytical skills; attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills; clear communication of operational changes, equipment issues, and safety concerns.
• Collaborative skills with operations, maintenance, and external contractors.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, engineering drawings, and equipment specifications.
• Basic understanding of piping systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical safety.
• Ability to recognize abnormal equipment conditions and report or troubleshoot mechanical issues under supervision.
• Technical proficiency with computer programs, databases, and software.
• Ability to perform sampling and basic laboratory tests under direction.
• Skill in safe handling, storage, and transfer of hazardous chemicals.
• Ability to respond to alarms and emergency conditions following established procedures and supervisor direction.

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work.
• Experience servicing, maintaining, and repairing a variety of machinery and equipment preferred.
• Prior water or wastewater treatment experience is desirable.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or a related field preferred.

• Daily travel within the region may be required.

• Valid driver license.
• License requirements vary by state; candidate must have the ability to obtain license(s) within the designated timeframe.

• Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors,…