Water Plant Operator
City of Grosse Pointe Farms · Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
Full-time · Union position · Swing shift
$31.23 per hour plus excellent fringe benefits
About the Position
The City of Grosse Pointe Farms is seeking a Water Plant Operator for its 10 MGD water filtration and pumping plant. This position performs technical, semi-skilled, and labor work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of plant equipment and machinery, along with record keeping, reporting, and laboratory analysis. The role requires working a swing shift with some overtime. On afternoon and midnight shifts, the operator is responsible for all aspects of plant operation without direct supervision. Work is performed under the supervision of the Water Superintendent or their designee. Wages and benefits are set by the collective bargaining agreement.
Responsibilities
- Monitor gauges, levels, and instruments to maintain drinking water quality and pressure throughout the distribution system
- Operate, maintain, and lubricate high- and low-service pumps
- Fill chemical storage tanks, prepare chemical solutions, and adjust feed rates
- Perform chemical and biological tests, including lab QA/QC
- Read and record water flow, pressure, temperature, atmospheric conditions, and chemical usage
- Observe loss of head through filters and backwash as required
- Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair water pumping equipment, and assist with disassembly and overhaul
- Operate emergency equipment during power failures
- Collect samples from designated locations in the distribution system
- Assist with replacing filter media and cleaning flocculators and the coagulation basin
- Clean and maintain the building and laboratory equipment
- Assist in preparing reports and perform other related work as required
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- State of Michigan F-4 Complete Treatment (Filtration) drinking water operator certification issued by EGLE, or the ability to obtain it within 18 months of hire
- Physical ability to meet the demands of the job
- Ability to perform basic wet chemistry lab tests
- Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions and work effectively with others
Certification Requirement
A successful candidate who does not already hold an F-4 certification is required to successfully complete a F-4 exam preparation course. This requirement helps new operators prepare for the exam and improves their chances of passing it within 18 months of hire.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate of Applied Science in Water Purification Technology, or equivalent
- Working knowledge of the methods, materials, and equipment used in water filtration and pumping station operations
How to Apply
Applications are accepted through Indeed only. Mailed, emailed, or in-person applications will not be considered. Please include your resume, a City job application/background waiver and copies of all applicable certifications when you apply through Indeed. The City job application/background waiver can be found at https://www.grossepointefarms.org/departments/human_resources.php.
Application deadline: Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
The City of Grosse Pointe Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $31.23 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dependent health insurance coverage
- Tuition reimbursement
Language:
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
- F, D, or S licenses from the State of Michigan? (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Preferred)
- Night Shift (Preferred)
- Overnight Shift (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236 (Required)
Work Location: In person
