Public Works
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NOTE: This position requires a Class A Water Treatment Plant Operator License at the time of application for the position.

The City of Effingham Public Works Department is seeking candidates to serve as the Water Treatment Plant Chief Operator. This position reports to the Operations Manager. The position is full-time, with a starting wage of $43.87 per hour. Wage increases to $45.62 per hour on May 1, 2026. Wages incrementally increase as defined by union contract. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a defined pension plan. A summary of the City’s benefits is located at https://www.effinghamil.com/job-benefits/. This posting will remain open until the position is filled.

Duties

Collects samples, conducts lab tests, or submits samples for lab tests;
Reads meters, gauges and dials and keeps logs of readings;
Regulates water levels in all units;
Reviews plant log records, gauges, meters, and other plant testing;
Monitors measuring devices to ensure that equipment is functioning properly;
Responds to emergency calls;
Performs plant maintenance, including repair and overhaul maintenance of equipment on a regular basis;
Performs laboratory tasks, making required EPA and IEPA tests, ordering chemicals, etc.;
Maintains current knowledge of professional developments in the field and regulatory requirements, including maintaining appropriate professional development hours in accordance with relevant requirements;
Submits reports to the appropriate agencies, including but not limited to the IEPA NPDES permit and pre-treatment samples and reports;
Operates the water treatment plant in accordance with the current IEPA permit;
Performs related duties with the other divisions of the Public Works Department, as required;
Responsible for the safe and economical operation of the Water Treatment Plant in accordance with modern public health standards, including but not limited to, City of Effingham ordinances and regulations, as well as IEPA and USEPA regulations;
Performs all the tasks of a Water Treatment Plant Operator, and additionally, is the staff member in-charge of the treatment plant personnel;
This position is registered with the IEPA as the Operator of Record.
- The complete job description is available at: https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/effinghamil/2025/11/d58f8ef9-wtp-chief-op-job-desc.clean_.pdf

Minimum Qualifications

Possess a Class A Water Operator license;
Associate’s degree or equivalent from college or technical school;
Or one (1) – two (2) years related experience and/or training;
Or equivalent combination of education and experience;

Preferred Qualifications

Possess a Class A Water Operator license;
Possess or obtain a Class B commercial driver’s license;
Associate’s degree or equivalent from college or technical school;
Or two (2) – three (3) years related experience and/or training;
Or equivalent combination of education and experience;
Experience with Word Office suite.

For additional information, contact Jeremy Heuerman, Public Works Director, at 217-342-5300 ext. 5347, or email JHeuerman@effinghamil.com.

The City of Effingham is an Equal Opportunity Employer

To apply for this job please visit www.effinghamil.com.

City of Effingham

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Water Treatment Plant Chief Operator