Description of Primary Purpose

Job Title: Water Plant Operator

Department: Public Works

Division: Water Production

Primary Purpose: Operates the 24/7/365 Ultra-Filtration Membrane Water Treatment Plant on an assigned shift to ensure safe, compliant potable water service for approximately 60,000 residents. Performs operational monitoring, water quality testing, preventative maintenance, sampling, and reporting. Assigned shifts include 6:00 AM–2:00 PM, 2:00 PM–10:00 PM, and 10:00 PM–6:00 AM, with occasional fill-in coverage as needed.

Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Lead Water Plant Operator.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Monitor and control the entire plant facility and remote pumping facilities and reservoirs. Ensure compliance with safety standards. Provide customer service. Perform preventative maintenance, repairs, and cleaning.

Calibrate laboratory equipment, conduct chemical and biological water quality tests, and collect routine and emergency water samples from the distribution system. Maintain records and ensure data accuracy.

Prepare written reports on plant operations. Maintain accurate documentation of all operational activities. Assist with the orientation and training of new Operators.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Required Minimum Qualifications: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Coursework in water/wastewater treatment, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, plumbing, or a related field preferred.

Experience: Two years of experience in water/wastewater treatment processes or a related mechanical/technical field preferred.

Certification or License:Valid driver’s license required. Illinois EPA Water Plant Operator’s Certification, Class A, preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Proficiencies:

Ability to interpret telemetry and process control data and adjust operations accordingly.
Knowledge of water/wastewater treatment processes, laboratory methods, and regulatory requirements.
Ability to calibrate and maintain laboratory instruments and conduct water quality tests.
Skill in troubleshooting plant processes, equipment, and distribution system issues.
Ability to respond quickly to unexpected emergencies, analyze conditions, and take appropriate action.
Self-motivation and ability to work independently, including during overnight shifts.
Commitment to staying current with advances in treatment technology and practices.
Strong oral and written communication skills to prepare reports and interact with coworkers and the public.
Professional demeanor to project a positive image as a representative of the City.

Supplemental Information

Work Environment: Work is primarily performed at the Water Treatment Plant, with additional duties at reservoirs and monitoring stations throughout the City. Operators may be assigned to any of the three rotating shifts and often work alone. Outdoor work occurs in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and humidity. Noise levels range from low to moderate in the Plant, and moderate to loud in field conditions.

Bloodborne Pathogens: None

Tools and Equipment Used: Operates pumps, valves, motors, generators, flocculators, membrane filtration systems, chemical feed equipment, air compressors, steam boilers, process instrumentation, PLC-based control and telemetry systems, and electronic test meters. Uses laboratory test instruments, hand tools, hoists, forklifts, man lifts, and standard office equipment including computers with Microsoft Office applications, copiers, scanners, and radios.

Physical Demands: Requires frequent walking, sitting, talking, and hearing. Requires use of hands to handle tools, controls, or equipment; reaching with hands and arms; and climbing ladders or working in confined spaces. Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds occasionally. Operators must work with and around water treatment chemicals (no unusual sensitivities or allergies). Adequate hearing and speech are required for telephone and radio communication. Vision must be sufficient to read instruments and operate a computer.

Work Schedule: Water Plant Operators standing watch currently work an A/B rotation. A/B rotation shifts for Water Plant Operators on watch are currently eight (8) hours: 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Water Plant Operators not standing single-operator watch currently work an eight (8) hours shift, 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Off-hours availability is required for emergencies and seasonal work.

2026 Compensation:

Step 1

$77,543.06

Step 2

$80,257.12

Step 3

$84,270.23

Step 4

$88,483.99

Step 5

$92,907.76

Step 6

$97,553.39

Step 7

$102,430.92

Step 8

$107,551.84

City of Highland Park, IL

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Water Plant Operator