Job Description
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Job Title: Relief Plant Operator
Posting Start Date: 11/6/26
Job Description:
Primary Role
Pennsylvania American Water has an opportunity for a full-time, Relief Operator to join our team in Milton, PA! This versatile role will be able to learn and engage with the production operations, as well as field services. You will be trained on how to operate the surface water plant, in addition to other production sites in the area. In addition, you will participate in the maintenance, repair and installation of utility assets out in the service territory. This is a well-rounded role that allows the opportuntiy to learn different facets of the business.
The Relief Operator is responsible for performing entry-level work in the operation and maintenance of a water and/or wastewater treatment facility and field operations. This role assists with the operation and monitoring of treatment facilities-including wells, water treatment systems, wastewater treatment processes, and/or collection and distribution infrastructure-to ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal regulatory requirements.
The Relief Operator performs a wide range of manual labor and routine technical duties such as inspecting system components, operating and adjusting equipment, performing basic maintenance, monitoring pumping and chemical feed systems, and supporting field activities related to distribution lines, collection systems, and stormwater assets. Work includes responding to operational conditions in the field, conducting periodic equipment and system checks, and ensuring the continuous and reliable delivery of essential utility services.
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Key Accountabilities
Treatment Plant Operations (Water & Wastewater)
- Perform startup, shutdown, routine operational checks, and continuous monitoring of water and/or wastewater treatment facilities, wells, and associated systems
- Operate and adjust plant equipment, including pumping systems, chemical feed systems, control systems, auxiliary equipment, storage tank levels, and pump station indicators
- Conduct hourly or scheduled inspections of treatment facilities, documenting operational data, variances, and issues in daily logs
- Monitor process flows, pressures, levels, chemical dosages, water quality indicators, and treatment performance to ensure regulatory compliance
- Backwash multimedia filters and perform other process-control activities to maintain optimal plant performance
- Load, unload, and handle treatment chemicals safely and according to established procedures
- Collect water and/or wastewater samples and perform laboratory analyses (e.g., turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, pH, chlorine, fluoride) for process control and regulatory reporting
- Maintain accurate operational records, including logs of chemical feeds, flow measurements, temperatures, levels, and pressures
- Perform routine preventive maintenance, including equipment adjustments, lubrication, cleaning, and minor repairs on mechanical and electrical plant equipment
- Conduct minor corrective maintenance tasks and report equipment deficiencies requiring advanced repair
- Maintain plant buildings and grounds including cleaning, painting, snow removal, and minor facility repairs
- Assist with calibration activities and develop working knowledge of the metric system and related measurement protocols
Field Operations (Water Distribution, Wastewater Collection, Stormwater Systems)
- Perform manual labor associated with installation, repair, and maintenance of distribution, collection, and stormwater systems
- Break asphalt and concrete using pneumatic tools; excavate valves and curb boxes with hand tools; and position pipes, valves, fittings, and related infrastructure
- Tap into pressurized water mains, install repair clamps, flare and connect service piping, and operate valves, hydrants, and related appurtenances
- Operate pneumatic and hydraulic boring equipment for line installation and repair activities
- Accurately complete forms, sketches, field notes, and documentation using maps and system records
- Drive and operate vehicles and equipment required to perform field tasks
- Obtain and record water meter readings to ensure accurate customer billing and measure pressure and flow to detect leaks
- Investigate and resolve customer service issues, providing professional communication and timely response
- Perform service turn-ons, turn-offs, and other customer-facing operational tasks in accordance with company procedures
Regulatory Compliance & Safety
- Follow all company Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures, reporting unsafe conditions immediately
- Conduct routine safety inspections, utilize required PPE, and adhere to lockout/tagout and chemical-handling protocols
- Ensure all work activities, treatment processes, and field operations comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulatory requirements
- Answer calls from the CSO, and relay information to supervisor as requested
- All other duties as assigned
Knowledge/Skills
- Ability to learn and understand basic principles and safety practices of water and/or wastewater treatment, distribution, and collection as they relate to assigned duties
- Ability to learn and understand the basic scientific and water and/or wastewater purification concepts
- Awareness of how treatment processes function and the importance of following established operating procedures
- Ability to learn and understand the operation of pumps, valves, motors, and other mechanical equipment related to plant operation and maintenance
- Knowledge of required safety procedures (PPE, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, electrical safety)
- Awareness of emergency response procedures related to plant and field operations and the importance of timely reporting and escalation
- Effective quantitative and analytical skills; attention to detail
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to clearly communicate operational changes, equipment issues, and safety concerns
- Ability to collaborate effectively with operations, maintenance, and external contractors
- Basic understanding of piping systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical safety
- Ability to recognize abnormal mechanical or electrical conditions and report or assist with troubleshooting under supervision
- Technical Proficiency: Good working knowledge of computer programs, databases, and software
- Ability to collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests under established procedures
- Skill in safe handling, storage, and transfer of hazardous chemicals
- Ability to respond to alarms and emergency conditions by following established procedures and notifying supervision
Experience/Education
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or a related field or college course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science or engineering preferred
- 0-2 years' experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work
- Experience in servicing, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of machinery and equipment preferred
- Prior water or wastewater treatment experience is desirable
Certifications & Licenses
- License requirements vary by state.
- Candidate must obtain a PA DEP Operator license within three (3) years of employment
- Valid driver's license
Travel Requirements
- Daily travel within region may be required
Work Environment
- Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, and varying weather conditions
- Potential exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, and sewage. The ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment is required
- May be required to work in buildings, in pits, manholes, on scaffoldings or in confined spaces
- May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards and electrical equipment
- Must be able to perform essential functions and meet the physical requirements of the position including ability to stand, climb stairs, and/ or walk and/or sit for long periods of time
- Ability to safely lift, carry, push, pull, and move tools, equipment, and materials up to 80 lbs. as required
- Involves crouching, stooping, and kneeling for extended or repeated periods
- Must be able to safely drive a company vehicle for extended or intermittent periods in varying conditions
- Frequently enters and exits vehicles
- Overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and/or on-call assignments required depending on operational needs
Work Schedule
- Full-time, 40 hours/week
- On-site
- Rotating schedule, includes 12-hour shift(s)
- Schedule will be discussed further during interview
Competencies
Plans & Aligns
Decision Making
Communicates Effectively
Builds Networks
Action Oriented
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