WT Lead Operator

Job Title: Water Treatment Plant Lead Operator

Job Summary: This position is responsible for skilled, licensed work in the operation and maintenance of equipment in the water plant. Work involves operation of water treatment facilities and equipment to insure compliance with water treatment permits. Maintenance of equipment is also a crucial part of the job.

Major Duties:

• Leads and oversees daily plant operations to ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations
• Operates and monitors water treatment equipment including pumps, control panels, SCADA systems, chemical feed systems, filters, motors, and laboratory instruments
• Reviews operational data, meter readings, and system performance; makes process control adjustments as needed
• Assigns, coordinates, and reviews work of plant operators; provides guidance and on-the-job training
• Assists in scheduling staff and ensuring adequate coverage for plant operations
• Performs advanced troubleshooting, maintenance, and minor repairs of treatment equipment
• Ensures proper chemical dosing and process optimization for water quality standards
• Collects and analyzes water samples; reviews and verifies accuracy of lab testing and reporting
• Maintains accurate operational logs, regulatory reports, and compliance documentation
• Identifies equipment or process issues and coordinates corrective actions or repairs
• Ensures plant safety procedures are followed; promotes a safe working environment
• Maintains plant facilities and grounds; oversees housekeeping and preventive maintenance activities
• Assists management with inspections, audits, and regulatory reporting requirements
• May operate city vehicles in performance of duties
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Knowledge Required by the Position:

• Comprehensive knowledge of water treatment plant operations, processes, and regulatory requirements
• Knowledge of federal and state drinking water regulations (e.g., EPD, EPA standards)
• Knowledge of safety procedures, hazard recognition, and proper use of PPE
• Knowledge of chemical treatment processes and dosage control
• Knowledge of SCADA systems and computerized plant operations
• Knowledge of maintenance practices for mechanical and electrical equipment
• Skill in leading, training, and coordinating work of others
• Skill in troubleshooting and resolving operational and equipment issues
• Ability to interpret technical data, gauges, and laboratory results
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to maintain accurate records and reports
• Ability to follow and enforce policies, procedures, and safety standards

Supervisory Control: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Water Plant Manager. The Lead Operator exercises functional supervision over assigned operators and staff.

Guidelines: Guidelines include federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations governing water treatment, as well as City policies and standard operating procedures.

Complexity: The work involves varied and complex technical tasks requiring independent judgment in monitoring, adjusting, and maintaining treatment processes and equipment, as well as coordinating staff activities.

Scope and Effect: The purpose of this position is to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the water treatment plant. Successful performance directly impacts public health, regulatory compliance, and service reliability.

Personal Contact: Contacts are typically with co-workers, supervisors, regulatory agencies, vendors, and contractors.

Purpose of Contacts: Contacts are made to exchange information, coordinate work activities, resolve problems, and ensure compliance with regulations.

Physical Demands: The work is typically performed with the employee intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. May require climbing stairs and ladders, lifting heavy objects, operating valves, working in confined spaces, and distinguishing color variations for lab analysis.

Work Environment: Work is performed in a water treatment plant environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, machinery, and varying weather conditions. Some heavy lifting and emergency response work may be required.

Supervisory and Management Responsibility: Provides leadership, training, and direction to plant operators. May assume supervisory responsibilities in the absence of the Water Plant Manager.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent

Possession of a valid State of Georgia Class I Water Treatment Operator License

Several years of progressively responsible experience in water treatment operations

Experience in a lead or supervisory capacity preferred

Salary : $26 - $33