KWU LEAD OPERATOR - WATER PRODUCTION PLANT

KWU LEAD OPERATOR - WATER PRODUCTION PLANT

Salary

$70,620.00 - $88,776.00 Annually

Location

5500 1st Avenue, Kenosha, WI

Job Type

Regular - Full Time

Job Number

20262333

Department

Water

Division

KWU Production

Opening Date

09/21/2026

Closing Date

10/4/2026 11:59 PM Central

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

General Overview of Position

The Lead Operator works under the Director of Water Production and requires specialized knowledge and the ability to work independently. This positions performs skilled and semi-skilled work to help ensure water treatment processes and equipment operate efficiently and effectively. The Lead Operator also works with the Plant Director to plan, assign, and review Plant Operators' maintenance work. In addition, the Lead Operator provides technical support and guidance to the Operator-on-Duty when needed. The regular weekly work schedule for this position is Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., however the incumbent will need to be available to respond to plant emergencies. The Water Production Plant is staffed 24/7 with 3 Operator-on-Duty shifts.

The Kenosha Water Utility (KWU) provides water and wastewater services to nearly 110,000 people in the Kenosha area of southeastern Wisconsin. KWU offers a full benefits package, including a Wisconsin Retirement System pension contribution, paid vacation, sick leave and holidays, health, dental and life insurance, overtime and compensatory time for emergency work outside regular hours, tuition reimbursement, and other benefits. More information is available at www.kenosha.org. Questions about the position can be directed to the KWU Director of Personnel & Administration at aaho@kenosha.org or 262-653-4314.

Example of Duties & Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (illustrative only):

• In coordination with the Plant Director, determines proper operation and process parameters and assists in their implementation.
• Under advisement from and/or in conjunction with the Plant Director, plans, assigns, supervises and reviews the work of Plant Operators when engaged in the operation and maintenance of water treatment processes or associated equipment.
• Provides technical and functional guidance related to optimal process efficiency to the Operator-on-Duty. Such guidance may need to be provided after normal work hours.
• Reads, monitors, interprets and records information taken from gauges, dials, and other instrumentation. Prepares and maintains logs, reports and other documentation.
• Troubleshoots, analyzes, and diagnoses malfunctioning equipment. Orders replacement parts and performs needed repairs or modifications; inspects and tests repaired or new equipment.
• Consults with outside contractors/vendors regarding specialized repairs or new installation; coordinates the scheduling of repair/installation work with assistance of the Plant Director or Utility Maintenance Supervisor.
• Coordinates sampling during the water treatment process and reviews laboratory results. Identifies and implements process control changes.
• Assists in the development of operational procedures and maintenance manuals.
• Identifies training needs; provides instruction or schedules training; works with Operators to correct any deficiencies.
• Compiles data and prepares regulatory, maintenance and other required reports.
• Provides feedback to the Plant Director on problems or concerns regarding Plant Operator performance or knowledge comprehension as it relates to water treatment processes.
• Adheres to and enforces proper and safe work practices in compliance with appropriate regulatory and department policies.
• Monitors and maintains inventory of supplies, such as parts, tools, equipment and materials; submits purchase order requisitions as necessary.
• Responds to emergency situations as required, which may occur after normal working hours. Ensures appropriate managers or personnel are notified.

OTHER REQUIRED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (illustrative only):

• Performs the duties of Plant Operator as needed or during emergency situations.
• Directs and oversees plant operations in the absence of the Director.
• Responds to inquiries and complaints from customers and the public; notifies management of those inquiries which are non-routine or require higher authority or more technical involvement.
• Participates in budget preparation.
• Provides input and participates in the interview process to fill Operator vacancies.
• Oversees and may assist with snow and ice control.
• Conducts plant tours.
• Attends seminars, meetings and conferences.
• Performs other related work as required.

Note: The duties listed above are intended as illustrations of the various types of work performed by the person in this job classification. The above list is not all-inclusive. The omission of a particular job duty does not mean that the duty is not one of the essential functions of the position. Management reserves the right to assign employees in this job classification to duties not listed above if the duties are fairly within the scope of responsibilities applicable to this position. Further note that employment in this job classification does not create an employment contract between the Kenosha Water Utility (KWU) and the employee, and is subject to change by KWU as the needs of KWU and the specific department change over time.

Requirements

Required Education, Training & Experience:

• High school diploma, G.E.D. or equivalent.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience and certification in water treatment plant operations.
• Grade 1 Waterworks Operator Certification from the State of Wisconsin must be maintained and include Subclass S - Surface Water and Subclass D - Distribution.
• Associates degree in water/wastewater treatment, industrial or automotive mechanical repair, supervisory management or related field from an accredited institution highly desired.
• Or any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills and abilities.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of conventional (rapid sand) and/or ultrafiltration membrane-system water treatment operations and maintenance, including plant procedures, the maintenance of facilities, and the operation of equipment.
• Ability to perform as a lead person, including the ability to persuade, convince, influence, train and monitor work activities in favor of a desired outcome.
• Knowledge of and skill in using the tools, equipment, materials, methods and procedures related to the duties of Plant Operator.
• Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical difficulties or malfunctions in plant equipment.
• Ability to perform minor and major mechanical repair or installation work, using a variety of tools and equipment.
• Knowledge and understanding of instrumentation used for control and monitoring of processes.
• Knowledge of appropriate safety procedures and OSHA regulations.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations including the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapters NR 809, 810 and 811.
• Ability to prepare technical reports and perform analyses to improve plant operations and reduce costs.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret and apply policies, procedures and standards to specific situations.
• Ability to read and utilize a variety of reference, descriptive and/or advisory information and standards such as equipment inspection reports, diagrams, schematics, blueprints, equipment and technical operating manuals, safety regulations, and other guidelines and documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with management, co-workers, vendors, contractors and the public.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division to determine such factors as surface area, volume, weights and measures; may require the ability to perform computations involving fractions, percentages, and decimals.
• Ability to enter and manipulate data in a computer to create reports and maintain records and other files.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment, initiative, resourcefulness and creativity in developing approaches and techniques to resolve problems.
• Ability to handle reasonably necessary stress.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in the operation of related equipment, machinery and tools.
• Ability to manipulate, assemble, lift, push, pull, or move objects.
• Ability to continuously lift objects and materials weighing 1-20 pounds; frequently 20-50 pounds; occasionally 50 or more pounds.
• Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods, occasionally over rough terrain.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, kneel, and crouch, occasionally working in such positions for an extended period of time.
• Ability to enter and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to climb stairs or ladders and work at an elevated height which may be 100+ feet.

Sensory Requirements:

• Ability to recognize and identify degrees of similarities or differences between characteristics of colors, shapes, sounds, tastes, odors and textures associated with job-related objects, materials and tasks.
• Verbal and written communications ability.

Environmental Requirements:

• Tasks may require exposure to hazardous work environments where a risk of injury or illness exists, such as live electrical wires, noxious fumes and odors, dust, toxic chemicals, wet or slippery conditions, etc.
• Tasks may require exposure to inclement weather conditions.

Other Requirements:

• Possession of a valid driver's license and a good driving record.

Method of Selection

Individuals who wish to be considered for this recruitment must complete an online application through GovernmentJobs.com. To begin the application process, please visit the City of Kenosha website at www.kenosha.org and click on the "Job Opportunities" link. All elements of the application, including supplemental questions must be completed and submitted in order for the application to be considered complete. It is important that your application reflect all of your relevant education and experience. Please note that including your resume does not take the place of completing the "Work Experience" section of the application. Applications may be rejected if no work experience is listed, or if other required application fields are missing or incomplete Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter, diplomas, certifications, or other documentation to their online application before submission which further illustrates their qualifications and interest in this employment opportunity.

An applicants education, training and experience will then be analyzed to determine if he/she meets the minimum requirements. Written, oral, proficiency and/or other examinations may be required to establish eligibility. Such exams will be scheduled as needed.

Appointment and rate of pay will be made in accordance with the Kenosha Water Utility Employee Handbook and the City of Kenosha Civil Service Ordinance & Rules/Regulations. The Kenosha Water Utility reserves the right to further evaluate only those applicants who best meet the needs of the Utility.

Why the City of Kenosha?

We offer a full benefit package, annual pay increases, generous paid time off and employee and community engagement opportunities for general full-time employees!

The City of Kenosha is taking on many exciting projects in the areas of large scale developments and technological advancements to keep Kenosha the vibrant and growing community we love -- Join us!

Most positions are included in a 17 step compensation plan. Most employees receive annual salary increases of 2.5% based on the current compensation plan. Additional across-the-board pay increases may occur annually.

Insurance

The City offers a high deductible health plan (HDHP) to eligible employees and their qualifying dependent(s) as of the first of the month following 30 days of full-time employment. All employees are required to pay a five percent (5%) monthly health insurance premium, which will be waived if the employee participates in an annual Health Risk Appraisal (HRA). Employees and qualifying dependents are responsible for any deductibles, co-payments, or other out-of-pocket costs associated with care received under the provisions of the plan(s).

The City offers dental insurance to eligible employees as of the first of the month following 30 days of full-time employment. There are two options for Dental Insurance: CarePlus (Dental Associates) and Delta Dental. CarePlus (Dental Associates) monthly premiums are paid for by the City. Employees are responsible for monthly premiums if enrolling in Delta Dental. Only one dental plan may be selected if enrolling.

The City offers vision insurance to eligible employees as of the first of the month following 30 days of full-time employment. This plan provides benefits (after applicable co-pay) including a comprehensive exam, eye glasses with standard single vision, etc.

The City holds an open enrollment period each calendar year. If the employee waives coverage of health and/or dental insurance upon hire, they must experience a qualifying life event as prescribed by the Plans summary plan description in order to enroll for either health or dental insurance at any other time during the plan year. Employees who do not experience a qualifying life event must wait for the open enrollment period to elect coverage. Insurance benefits are subject to unilateral changes by the City.

We participate in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS). This is a pension plan. We match the employee contribution amount monthly for general employees. The current contribution rate for general and teacher employees can be found here.

Term group life insurance coverage is provided to employees who participate in the WRS through the Wisconsin Public Employers Group Life Insurance Program. The premium for Basic Plan coverage is paid by the City for active employees.

Employees may elect to defer part of their income into a 457(b) retirement plan through Mission Squared Retirement Corporation, Nationwide Retirement Solutions or the Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program.

Employees enjoy numerous types of paid time off.

Employees earn up to 12 days of sick leave per year. Sick leave can be carried over year after year & never expires during employment.

Paid Vacation - available for use on January 1 each year! (pro-rated your first year of employment)

Years of Service Days/Hours per Year

Less than 1 year 12 days (96 hours)

After 1-5 years 15 days (120 hours)

After 6-10 years 17 days (136 hours)

After 11-15 years 19 days (152 hours)

After 16-20 years 21 days (160 hours)

After 20 years 25 days (200 hours)

Employees may carry over eighty (80) hours of unused vacation leave into the next calendar year.

We observe 12 paid holidays & additional paid floating holidays!

New Years Day Independence Day (July 4th) Christmas Eve Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Labor Day Christmas Day

Friday before Easter Thanksgiving Day New Years Eve Day

Memorial Day Day after Thanksgiving

Juneteenth

Employees receive at least two (2) paid floating holidays per year. Holiday observance schedule may vary by department.

Duty-Related Death Benefit

One years salary is paid to the named beneficiary of an eligible employee who is killed in the line of duty.

Health and Wellness Clinic - Employees (and covered spouses) who elect health insurance coverage and complete the annual HRA may utilize the Citys onsite Health and Wellness Clinic, which is staffed by a Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse. Services provided by the Clinic may be subject to a co-payment, as prescribed by City policy and IRS guidelines.

Health Savings Account - The health insurance plan offered by the City qualifies for a Health Savings Account (HSA) as defined by the IRS. Johnson Bank has waived the fees normally associated with opening and maintaining an HSA for all City employees who are enrolled in a qualifying insurance plan. Payroll deduction (pre-taxed) is only available to those employees who hold their HSA with Johnson Bank. Enrollment for this benefit is administered by the Finance Department.

Critical Illness, Accident & Universal Life/Long-Term Care Insurances - Supplemental policies for Critical Illness, Accident and Life/Long-Term Care Insurance are offered to current eligible employees during the Citys annual open enrollment period.

Tuition Reimbursement Program - Regular full-time employees who have completed their probationary period may be reimbursed for 80% of tuition up to $3,000 per calendar year for satisfactory completion (a grade of "B" or greater) of approved courses through an accredited institution in the pursuance of an Associate, Bachelor or Master Degree. Please refer to the Citys Personnel Policies and Regulations for program information.

• Benefit offerings are based on eligibility, reviewed annually and are subject to change.

01

Do you have a minimum of five (5) years experience in water production/treatment operations or similar plant environment?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you currently possess Waterworks Operator certification from the State of Wisconsin?

• Yes
• No
• I previous possessed this certification (which has expired).
• I have this type of certification from another U.S. state.

03

If you have a degree which may be related to this position, please enter this information below. Include type of degree (i.e., Associates, Bachelor), your major, and the name of the educational institution you attended.

04

If you have work experience in which you performed "lead" or "supervisory" type duties, please describe below. (For example, "At Company X, I was responsible for assigning work to a crew and ensuring they completed the work correctly, safely and efficiently." OR "At Company X, I was responsible for training new employees on how to operate and repair a certain piece of equipment.")

05

Do you understand that this position requires the incumbent to respond to after-hour plant emergencies?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer City of Kenosha

Address 625 - 52nd Street

Room 205

Kenosha, Wisconsin, 53140

Phone 262.653.4130

Website https://www.kenosha.org