WATER PLANT OPERATOR II

Job Overview

Huntsville Utilities offers a customer service–driven environment, with access to industry-leading technology that supports our employees’ work and provides resources for career advancement. Join us at Huntsville Utilities, where our team is uniquely focused on one goal: to provide high-quality, low-cost, safe, and reliable electric, natural gas, and water services to our customers.

The Water Plant Operator II is a technical and skilled position responsible for analytical and process-related work in operating a drinking water treatment plant. This role ensures distribution system demands are met while maintaining full compliance with local, state, and federal water regulations. Operators are entrusted with safeguarding public health through consistent, high-quality potable water delivery—even during nights, weekends, and holidays.

Compensation and Benefits

• Offer Range: $27.52 – $34.79 per hour
• Classification: Non-Exempt
• Benefits: Yes (comprehensive benefits package)
• Employment Type: Full Time
• Department: Water Supply

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure regulatory compliance with all ADEM, EPA, and other applicable agency standards
• Assume responsibility for the safe, adequate delivery of potable water; act immediately when water quality is at risk
• Monitor and control telemetry and SCADA systems to operate reservoir valves, wells, and booster pumps
• Notify the Water Treatment Plant Operator-Chief and/or Supervisor of potential water quality issues or equipment failures
• Adjust operational parameters based on lab analysis of raw and finished water
• Operate chemical feeders and treatment equipment for optimal, cost-effective performance
• Manually or remotely control motors, pumps, and valves to manage water flow
• Conduct basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
• Maintain accurate and complete logs, records, and reports
• Conduct plant inspections and report safety, equipment, or security concerns

Additional Duties

• Perform wash-downs of filters, basins, and other equipment; general plant cleaning
• Respond to customer inquiries or escalate them appropriately
• Remain on shift until relieved by a certified operator and deliver proper handoff
• Support operator training programs to ensure safe and effective plant operation
• Stay informed on emerging regulations and water treatment technologies
• Maintain continuing education hours to comply with ADEM Division 10 certification requirements
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Education and Credentials

• Required: High school diploma or GED
• Preferred: Associate degree or equivalent coursework in chemistry, math, hydraulics, or computer science
• Certification:
  • Must have ADEM Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certification or be eligible for reciprocity within six (6) months
  • Consideration given to candidates who have passed the Grade IV exam but lack experience; employment subject to review if deadlines are not met

Experience and Skills

• Required:
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience in a Grade IV water treatment plant
  • Alternatively, relevant training programs, classes, or seminars may substitute for one (1) year of experience as approved by ADEM
• Knowledge of:
  • Water quality standards and advanced treatment processes
  • ADEM Division 7 and 10 regulations
  • Full range of treatment plant operations including pumps, motors, chemical feeders, controllers, and instrumentation

Working Conditions

• Environment: Exposure to outdoor conditions, steps, ladders, and confined spaces; industrial setting
• Physical Demands: Ability to distinguish colors, perform manual labor, and lift up to 50 lbs
• Tools and Equipment: Trucks, computers, chemical feeders, pumps, lab equipment, electrical controls, motor starters

Additional Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Shift work required, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Subject to emergency duty and on-call response
• Must handle and safely use hazardous chemicals
• Position is designated as safety-sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing
• Must pass the WORK KEYS test unless already certified with ADEM Grade IV

Competencies

• Accepting Responsibility
• Building and Demonstrating Respect
• Communicating Effectively
• Demonstrating Required Job Knowledge
• Demonstrating Initiative
• Driving Quality & Excellence
• Entrepreneurial Thinking
• Establishing Relationships
• Following Policies and Procedures
• Safety Awareness
• Education
• Longevity
• Relevant Job Experience
• Computer Skills

Equal Opportunity Statement

Huntsville Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the E-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Disclaimer

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description should not be interpreted as a complete list. The scope and functions of this position may be amended by the Department Head, with review by the Compensation Analyst and agreement from the VP of Employee Engagement, Human Resources Division, or designee, to reflect evolving organizational needs.