Utility Plant Operator

Job Description

Job Title: Utility Plant Operator

Posting Start Date: 10/28/25

Job Description:

Primary Role

This position is cross trained to work in distribution, field services, as well as plant operations. Day-to-day activities may include meter reading, service repairs, flushing hydrants, or operating our water/wastewater treatment plant(s). Performs a variety of tasks in the locating, laying, repairing, and extending underground water mains and distribution pipes. Performs skilled work in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment facility and ensures that the facility is operating in a manner which meets all state and federal regulatory requirements.

Essential Functions

• Utility Technician:
• Sets up barricades and places safety lights around work sites to protect workers from street traffic.
• Breaks up asphalt and concrete, using pneumatic power tools for trenching and compaction.
• Manually digs valve boxes and curb boxes, using shovel and digging bar.
• Guides pipe sections, valves and fittings into position and holds pieces steady while worker tightens connections.
• Taps into pressurized water mains.
• Flares and connects copper and plastic piping.
• Installs repair clamps on pressurized water mains and service lines.
• Operates valves and fire hydrants.
• Investigates complaints and determines corrective action per company procedure.
• Operates pneumatic and/or hydraulic boring equipment.
• Completes all necessary forms, sketches, field notes and uses maps and records.
• Drives vehicles and/or trucks in performance of general job.
• Performs any other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Water/Wastewater Plant Operator:
• Responsible for the startup, shutdown, and periodic operating checks of a water treatment plant.
• Make necessary adjustments to pumping systems, chemical feeders, auxiliary equipment, and control systems.
• Monitoring storage tank levels and pump station indicators.
• Inspects plant as scheduled, recording all data and problems in the daily log.
• Performs routine maintenance of plant equipment and grounds which may include painting, cleaning, snow removal and other repairs.
• Loads and unloads chemicals used at the treatment plans.
• Monitors flow, pressures, chemical feeds, levels, and water quality indicators.
• Collects water samples and performs laboratory tests on samples for turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, ph, fluoride, and chlorine.
• Maintains plant records such as operating logs, chemical feeds, temperature, levels, and pressures.
• Backwashes multimedia filters as needed.
• Records all operating data on daily work sheet from laboratory analysis and flow metering equipment.
• Acquires knowledge of metric system to use for calibration.
• Conducts safety inspections and follows safety rules and procedures.
• Communicates effectively with other operators and supervisors.
• Attends and participates in operational and safety training programs as directed by management.
  

Knowledge/Skills

• Working knowledge of distribution/collection systems.
• Basic knowledge of the principles and safety practices of wastewater or water distribution, pumping, collection, and treatment, each as they may apply to area of responsibility.
• Basic understanding of the mechanical, chemical, and biological processes and related equipment, as well as an awareness and alertness regarding operational modification necessary in both routine and emergency situations.
  
  

Experience/Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least five (5) years water and/or wastewater systems and treatment.
  
  

Certifications & Licenses

• License requirements vary by state. Candidate must possess required licenses or have the ability to obtain within designated timeframe.
• Valid state driver’s license required.
  
  

Work Environment

• May be required to work indoor or outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold or other adverse weather conditions.
• Standing 25%; walking 75% for as many as 5 miles per shift; Required to occasionally stoop, kneel or crouch and enter confined spaces; may be required to use ladders or stairs.
• Able to lift or move up to 50-60 pounds.
• 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 for the position.
  
  

Competencies

Champions safety

Customer obsessed

Cultivates innovation

Nimble learning

Drives Results

Collaborates