Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator

Under general supervision, the Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the City’s surface water treatment plant. The role ensures adequate storage and delivery of treated water while maintaining strict adherence to all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) standards.

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Water Quality Monitoring & Compliance

• Perform and record water quality checks, including total and free chlorine residuals, fluoride residuals, alkalinity, hardness, monochloramine residual, and free ammonia.
• Conduct turbidity verifications and temperature monitoring.
• Collect, analyze, prepare, and preserve water samples for bacteriological, total organic compounds, and alkalinity testing; coordinate with certified laboratories for further analysis.
• Inspect and test chemicals received for treatment (specific gravity, color, odor).
• Ensure finished water meets all EPA and TCEQ regulatory requirements.
  
  

Plant & System Operations

• Monitor and operate SCADA systems to ensure adequate levels throughout the distribution network.
• Maintain clear wells, ground storage tanks, and towers.
• Operate and adjust pumps, motors, and chemical feed systems as needed.
• Calculate and implement proper chemical dosages using mathematical formulas and computer programs.
• Conduct daily filter backwashing and perform inspections of basins, filters, and mechanical equipment.
• Monitor City lift stations; coordinate with wastewater maintenance staff when issues arise.
  
  

Reporting, Documentation & Communication

• Prepare, maintain, and input data into logs, records, and process control systems.
• Report system performance to supervisors and assist in developing operational improvements.
• Generate and manage work orders, including customer complaints and emergency locates.
• Respond to inquiries and concerns from customers, city departments, and outside agencies
  
  

Teamwork & Training

• Assist with training of new operators and operator trainees as assigned.
• Coordinate tasks with other City departments to ensure timely resolution of operational or customer service issues.
• Maintain strong communication and professional relationships with staff, agencies, and the public.
  
  

Custodial & Safety Responsibilities

• Perform custodial duties within the plant, including cleaning of control rooms, laboratories, restrooms, floors, and equipment.
• Adhere to work safety policies, procedures, and appropriate use of PPE.
• Support emergency response and essential operational continuity as required.
• Work performed at treatment facilities across the city.
• Regular exposure to hazardous chemicals, infectious agents, dangerous machinery, and
  
  

potentially unsafe tools and equipment.

• Physical demands may include standing, walking, climbing, lifting, and operating equipment
  
  

in variable weather conditions.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Two (2) years of surface water treatment experience; or an equivalent combination of education,
  
  

training, and experience.

Licenses Certifications

• Valid Texas Driver’s License.
• Class C Surface Water Operator Certification (required).
• Class B Commercial Driver’s License (must be obtained within two (6) months of hire.
  
  

Knowledge & Skills

• Familiarity with federal, state, and local water regulation, including TCEQ standards.
• Knowledge of water treatment principles, chemical analysis, and safety protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, meters, chemical reports, manuals, and technical data.
• Strong organizational, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.