This position is a member of the Public Works Department which includes the Streets, Water, and Wastewater Divisions. This position is responsible for operation of the City's water facilities. The Water Plant Operator's primary duties are monitoring, operations, and maintenance of the water treatment plant to ensure the continuous supply and clean potable water in accordance with Federal, State, and City regulations.

Successful candidates must establish residency within a twenty-five-mile radius of City Limits or anywhere in Madison or St. Clair County in Illinois, within twelve (12) months of hire date. This is a union position with the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 148.

Representative Work Functions and Responsibilities

All operations pertaining to the water treatment process at the treatment plant. Duties very depending upon which shift the operator is working and if it is a regular day or weekend shift:

• Controls and monitors process equipment at the water treatment plant.
• Equipment includes but not limited to - aeration tank/head tank, solids clarifier, CO2 diffusers/basin, gravity filters, related backwash equipment, storage vessels, chemical feed pumps and equipment, SCADA controls, high service distribution pumps as well as other ancillary equipment.
• Performs and records the results of various laboratory tests to assess water quality.
• Determine optimal chemical feed rates and adjust process equipment to ensure consistent water quality meeting all State and Federal regulations.
• Perform minor repairs, operation adjustments, routine preventative maintenance on plant equipment as needed. This includes but not limited to – electrical and mechanical maintenance.
• Maintains plant records and daily operations log.
• Responsible for daily custodial duties and general maintenance of grounds/facilities. This includes but not limited to – distribution system storage vessels and equipment.
• Answers phone calls and other communications with internal and external customers.
• Assists field staff in communicating with stakeholders in emergencies.
• Assists public with general information inquiries.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent is required, and the following experience and/or education/training is preferred:

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a related in a water treatment plant or water distribution system.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.
• The ability to obtain an Illinois Class C Water Plant Operator License or equivalent certification.
• The ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations.
• This position works rotating shifts consisting of day, evening, and night shifts, holidays and weekends, and some required extended shifts and overtime.

Walking, standing, sitting, stooping, and lifting various material and equipment over 50 lbs. is required daily. The ability to climb ladders, stairs, and elevated water storage tower in all weather conditions. Must be able to reach, grasp, bend, and work with power and hand tools while in a bent over position and overhead. Infrequently (i.e., during semiannual plant cleanup), the use of air hammers and chippers to remove heavy calcium carbonate buildup and crawling on the stomach through dark and wet pipes and passages may also be required. The ability to enter and work in confined spaces.

Candidate must have basic knowledge of algebra, environmental science, and water chemistry. Knowledge of mechanics, electricity, process control, instrumentation is preferred. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of OSHA rules and standards.

Must be able to report for work on time and to perform the duties of the job for the entire workday. Must be able to work flexible hours with some weekend, evening, and holiday work required. Must be able to perform frequent overtime work which may involve late night or early morning hours.

SALARY and BENEFITS

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the pay range begins at the following rates:

Class D: $32.71/hour

Class C: $34.06/hour

Class B: $34.58/hour

Class A: $35.79/hour

The City offers a generous comprehensive benefits package, which includes health, vision, and prescription 100% funded by the City for single coverage. Pension is with the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.

APPLICATION

To receive full consideration, applications must be received by midnight CST on May 24, 2026. Successful candidates must pass a criminal background, physical, and drug screening after contingent job offer.