Water Treatment Plant Operator I

Huntsville Utilities offers a customer service–driven environment with access to industry‑leading technology that supports our employees’ work, along with resources that promote career advancement.

Join us at Huntsville Utilities, where our team is committed to one goal: providing high‑quality, low‑cost, safe, and reliable electric, natural gas, and water service to our customers.

Compensation

Offer Range: $28.21 – $35.66
Exempt/Non‑Exempt: Non‑Exempt
Benefits: Yes
Employment Type: Full Time
Department: Water Supply

Job Statement

The Water Plant Operator I is a skilled technical position responsible for performing analytical, operational, and process‑related tasks in the operation of a drinking water treatment plant. This position ensures the distribution system meets customer demand while maintaining strict compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The Water Plant Operator I helps protect public health, ensures reliable service, and provides exceptional customer support.

Essential Duties

• Ensures compliance with ADEM, EPA, and all applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintains safe, high‑quality potable water, taking immediate corrective action when water quality is compromised.
• Works independently during after‑hours, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Monitors telemetry and SCADA systems to control reservoir valves, booster pumps, and wells for efficient system distribution.
• Adjusts treatment parameters based on laboratory analysis of raw and finished water.
• Operates and controls motors, pumps, valves, and related equipment manually or remotely to regulate water flow.
• Manages chemical feeders and treatment equipment to achieve cost‑effective and optimal water treatment.
• Reviews and verifies the accuracy of all written and electronic logs and documentation at the end of each shift.
• Communicates issues affecting water quality or availability to the Plant Lead and Supervisor.
• Conducts regular inspections of plant facilities and reports equipment malfunctions promptly.

Additional Duties

• Responds to routine customer inquiries or directs customers to the appropriate personnel.
• Cleans equipment, basins, and filters using industrial washdown hoses and performs general housekeeping tasks.
• Maintains all responsibilities until relieved by a certified operator who has been briefed on current operating conditions.
• Performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Assists with training and onboarding new operators to ensure proper skill development.
• Monitors changes in water quality regulations and treatment techniques.
• Maintains required continuing education hours per ADEM Division 10 to keep certifications active.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or coursework in chemistry, math, hydraulics, or computers is highly preferred.
• Must possess an ADEM Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certification or obtain reciprocity within six (6) months.
• Employment status will be reviewed if certification deadlines are not met.

Experience

• Two (2) years of experience in a Grade IV water treatment plant required.
• Equivalent experience through training, classes, or seminars may substitute for one (1) year, subject to ADEM approval.
• Knowledge required includes:
  • Water quality limits
  • Water treatment plant operations and processes
  • Operation of pumps, chemical feeders, motors, controllers, and instrumentation
  • ADEM Division 7 and Division 10 regulations

Additional Requirements

Operation of Equipment

• Chemical feeders
• Pumps
• Laboratory equipment
• Electrical controls
• Computers
• Water testing equipment

Physical Demands

• Requires visual and manual dexterity
• Must not be colorblind (color differentiation required)
• Climbing steps and ladders
• Exposure to outdoor weather
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs

Other Requirements

• Shift work required
• Subject to on‑call and emergency duty
• Safe handling of hazardous chemicals required
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license
• This is a safety‑sensitive position subject to random drug and alcohol testing

Competencies

• Accepting Direction
• Accepting Responsibility
• Building and Demonstrating Respect
• Communicating Effectively
• Critical Thinking
• Demonstrates Required Job Knowledge
• Drives Quality & Excellence
• Following Policies and Procedures
• Maintaining Work‑Life Balance
• Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions
• Safety
• Education
• Longevity
• Relevant Job Experience

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.

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are not intended to be exhaustive. With advisement from the Department Head, review by the Compensation Analyst, and approval from the VP EE, HRD, or designee, duties may be amended to reflect changing organizational needs.