Utilities Operator

Utilities Operator

Salary

$51,022.40 - $75,920.00 Annually

Location

111 Gillingham Lane Sugar Land, TX

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

2400356

Department

Water Utilities

Division

Surface Water Operation

Opening Date

10/28/2026

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

The City of Sugar Land is seeking an experienced Surface Water Operator in the Utilities Department.

About the City of Sugar Land

The City of Sugar Land serves over 110,000 residents and is known for its high quality of life and commitment to innovation. Our team is driven by service, collaboration, and a shared goal of making our community even better.

At the City of Sugar Land, we're building a high-performing, innovative community where employees are empowered to make an impact. You'll join a collaborative team, enjoy strong benefits from day one, and have real opportunities to grow your career.

We follow our BLAZE values by encouraging bold ideas, fostering a supportive and collaborative team, adapting to change, holding ourselves to high standards, and empowering employees to grow, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.

What We Offer

• A competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance package with coverage starting Day 1
• TMRS pension with 2:1 city match; 457(b) options
• Paid holidays, vacation, and paid parental leave
• Wellness programs, mental health resources, and an EAP
• Grow your career with professional development programs, training opportunities, and career advancement through our Gold Standard People Development Division.

What We Pay

The Surface Water Operator is an non-exempt position with a starting salary of $24.53 - $36.50 annually.

What You'll Do as the Surface Water Operator:

• Develop the knowledge and skill for the essential operations of the membrane treatment plant and facilities in accordance with State and Federal regulations.
• Uses Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) to assist with operating/monitoring treatment process, adjusts chemicals and treatment equipment in accordance with regulatory permits
• Performs laboratory duties, maintains instruments, monitors quality control, collects samples and conducts analysis
• Enters sample analysis into daily log and ensures accuracy of all shift records/reports on their shift
• Provides and accepts plant turnover to the preceding/on-coming operator team
• Troubleshoots equipment and process control problems
• Monitors and adjusts plant parameters to sustain quality and regulatory compliance
• Performs preventative maintenance on pumps, motors, and tanks. Clean and service all areas throughout the plant
• Regular on-site attendance is an essential function of this position.
• Required to work as an essential employee before, during and after an emergency or disaster, whether natural or acts of war.
• Stay abreast of, and comply with, all City and departmental policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned by Assistant Director and/or their designee(s).

What You Bring:

Education

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Operator I

• Two (2) years of experience in surface water treatment plant operation and maintenance, or one (1) year of direct experience at the City of Sugar Land Surface Water Treatment Plant.
• Municipal or government experience preferred.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.
• Must possess a TCEQ Class C Surface Water Operator License.

Operator II

• Four (4) years of experience in surface water treatment plant operation and maintenance.
• Municipal or government experience preferred.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.
• Must possess a TCEQ Class B Surface Water Operator License.

Operator III

• Eight (8) years of experience in surface water treatment plant operation and maintenance.
• Municipal or government experience preferred.
• Must possess a valid Texas Driver License.
• Must possess a TCEQ Class A Water Operator License.

The citizens of Sugar Land depend on City employees before, during and after an emergency or disaster to provide or restore essential public services for the health, safety and quality of life for our community. In the event of a wide scale emergency that could impact our community, all employees must be ready to assist in managing the crisis and will be considered essential for the continuity of governmental operations.

Our success is achieved by the courage to do things differently and accept that failure will occur on the path to innovation.

The City of Sugar Land is an equal Opportunity employer.

CITY OF SUGAR LAND - Where you can build a career, make a difference, and belong.

Employee Benefits & Total Rewards Overview

A GREAT PLACE TO WORK. A PURPOSE WORTH PURSUING. A FUTURE WORTH BUILDING.

At the City of Sugar Land, we believe our employees are our greatest asset. Our commitment goes beyond compensation. We invest in our people by providing a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support financial security, health and wellness, professional growth, work-life balance, and meaningful opportunities to make a difference in the community we serve.

From retirement and healthcare to career development and employee recognition, were committed to creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, empowered, and inspired to thrive.

1. RETIREMENT & FINANCIAL SECURITY

Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS)

The City participates in TMRS, providing employees with a valuable retirement benefit. Employees contribute 7% of their gross pay, and the City provides a 2-to-1 matching contribution. Employees become vested after five years of service and may qualify for retirement upon meeting applicable age and service requirements, including 20 years of service at any age or age 60 with five years of service.

457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan

Employees have the opportunity to build additional retirement savings through an optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan. Contributions are made through payroll deduction, subject to plan requirements and annual IRS contribution limits.

Longevity Pay

In recognition of dedicated service, employees become eligible for longevity pay after one year of employment, as provided by state law and City policy.

2. PAID TIME OFF & WORK-LIFE BALANCE

We recognize that life happens outside of work, too. Our leave programs provide employees with opportunities to recharge, care for themselves and their families, and enjoy time away from the workplace.

Holidays

The City recognizes nine holidays annually, along with three discretionary holidays.

Vacation Leave

Employees accrue between two and four weeks of vacation annually, depending on their tenure and position with the City.

Sick Leave

Employees receive 96 or 144 hours of sick leave annually, depending on their position with the City.

3. HEALTH & WELLNESS

We believe healthy employees help build a healthy organization. The City offers benefits and wellness opportunities designed to support employees and their families.

Medical, Dental & Vision Plans

The City offers medical, dental, and vision insurance options designed to support employees and their families in maintaining their health and well-being.

Section 125 Cafeteria Plan

Full-time employees have access to eligible health insurance premium contributions and flexible spending account options through the Citys Section 125 Cafeteria Plan, providing tax-advantaged ways to manage eligible healthcare expenses.

Employee Wellness Initiatives

Through wellness activities, educational opportunities, and resources that encourage healthy lifestyles, the City promotes a culture of well-being and encourages employees to prioritize their health.

4. LIFE & FINANCIAL PROTECTIONS

We understand the importance of protecting what matters most. The City provides foundational insurance benefits to help employees and their families prepare for lifes unexpected circumstances.

Basic Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D)

The City provides basic life insurance and AD&D coverage to full-time employees, offering financial protection for employees and their loved ones.

Long-Term Disability Insurance

Full-time employees receive long-term disability coverage to help provide income protection in the event an illness or injury prevents them from working for an extended period.

Voluntary Benefit Options

Employees may choose from a variety of additional insurance and benefit options through convenient payroll deductions. Options include pet insurance, supplemental illness coverage, short-term disability, supplemental life insurance, and other coverage designed to meet individual and family needs.

5. EMPLOYEE & FAMILY SUPPORT

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The Citys Employee Assistance Program provides employees and their eligible dependents access to professional, confidential assistance and resources to help navigate personal, family, and work-related challenges.

6. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CAREER GROWTH

We believe in growing our people and developing the next generation of leaders. Employees have opportunities to strengthen their skills, expand their knowledge, and reach their professional potential.

Learning & Development

Access to learning resources, training opportunities, and professional development designed to build capabilities and support continued growth.

Leadership Development

Opportunities to strengthen leadership skills, develop future leaders, and empower employees at every stage of their careers.

Career Growth & Development

An environment that encourages continuous learning, internal development, and opportunities to explore career pathways within the organization.

We celebrate the contributions, accomplishments, and everyday efforts of employees who make a difference. Recognition and appreciation are important parts of how we demonstrate that our people matter.

A Culture Built on BLAZE Values

Our BLAZE Values - Bold, Loyal, Adaptable, Zealous, and Empowered - reflect the mindset we strive to bring to our work every day. These values shape how we lead, serve, collaborate, and support one another as we work together to create a life better than our employees, residents, and businesses can imagine.

MORE THAN BENEFITS. AN INVESTMENT IN YOU.

Were All-In on our people. Were All-In on our community. And were All-In on creating a life better than you can imagine.

01

Do you currently hold a Surface Water License issued by TCEQ?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer City of Sugar Land

Address 2700 Town Center Blvd., N

Sugar Land, Texas, 77479

Phone (281) 275-2735

Website http://www.sugarlandtx.gov