Water Treatment Plant Operator I

Huntsville Utilities offers a customer service–driven environment, supported by industry‑leading technology, resources for employee development, and a mission‑focused culture.

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 and process‑related tasks in the operation of a drinking water treatment plant. This role ensures the distribution system’s demands are met while maintaining compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. The Water Plant Operator I protects public health, ensures reliable service, and delivers exceptional customer support.

Essential Duties

• Ensures compliance with ADEM, EPA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Maintains safe, high‑quality potable water and takes immediate corrective action if water quality is compromised.
• Operates independently during after‑hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Monitors telemetry and SCADA systems to control reservoir valves, booster pumps, and wells.
• Adjusts treatment parameters based on laboratory analyses of raw and finished water.
• Operates and controls motors, pumps, valves, and related equipment manually or remotely.
• Manages chemical feeders and treatment equipment to ensure cost‑effective, optimal treatment.
• Reviews written and electronic logs, ensuring accurate documentation at the end of each shift.
• Communicates with the Plant Lead and Supervisor regarding issues affecting water quality or availability.
• Conducts regular plant inspections and reports malfunctions.

Additional Duties

• Responds to routine customer questions or directs them to appropriate personnel.
• Cleans equipment, basins, and filters using industrial washdown hoses; performs general housekeeping.
• Maintains responsibilities until relieved by a certified operator who has been fully briefed.
• Performs basic maintenance and troubleshooting of plant equipment.
• Assists with operator training to ensure proper onboarding of new personnel.
• Monitors emerging water quality regulations and treatment techniques.
• Maintains continuing education hours required by ADEM Division 10.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or coursework in chemistry, math, hydraulics, or computers 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 programs, classes, or seminars may substitute for one (1) year, subject to ADEM approval.
• Knowledge of:
  • Water quality limits
  • Water treatment plant operations
  • Pumps, chemical feeders, motors, controllers, and instrumentation
  • ADEM Division 7 and Division 10 regulations

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

• 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.