Water Plant Operator

The City of Marquette is accepting applications for a Water Plant Operator.  This position utilizes defined operating procedures to continuously maintain safe, clean water for the City’s water supply system. This position requires shift work as defined, including weekends, holidays, days, afternoons, and midnights. A Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Water “F4” certificate within 2 years of hire. The entry wage is $21.09/hr. with an excellent benefit package.  Applications will be accepted until February 2, 2024.                   

                                                                                                                 EOE

POSITION TITLE:                          Water Treatment Plant Operator

REPORTS TO:                                 Water Treatment Plant Supervisor

EFFECTIVE DATE:                        January 9, 2024 

FLSA CODE:                                    Non-Exempt / Public Works Bargaining Unit

POSITION SUMMARY:

Using defined operating procedures, continuously maintains safe, clean water to the City’s water supply system, while maintaining predetermined chlorine and fluoride residuals and proper pH levels. In addition, performs maintenance on all equipment, buildings and grounds. This position requires shift work as defined, including weekends, holidays, days, afternoons, and midnights.

Functions under the direct supervision of the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor and/or Director of Municipal Utilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all the following:

• Analyze chlorine and fluoride content of the water supply. Perform pH, turbidity, and other related tests as deemed necessary.
• Make adjustments to chemical feed equipment as necessary to maintain proper dosages.
• Maintain plant equipment and regularly inspect and calibrate equipment to ensure they are in proper working order.
• Operate all plant equipment and participate in routine and preventive maintenance.
• Receive emergency phone calls for service and relay emergencies to proper authorities.
• Maintain plant’s operation log.
• Participate in routine and custodial duties as needed for building and grounds maintenance.
• Maintain list of all hazardous chemicals and associated MSDS sheets.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Performs other related functions as assigned.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT USED

• Hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, instrumentation calibration equipment, hoists, riding lawn mower, tractor, push mower, snow blower, volt/amp meter, sonic analyzer.
• Spectrophotometer, colorimeter, pH meter, turbidimeter, sterilization oven, fume hood, distiller, hot plate/stirrer, incubator, water bath, lab dishwasher.
• Computer, printers, standard office equipment.
• Telephone, standard duplicating equipment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• A high school education or GED is required.
• Knowledge in computer operations/data entry. Proficient in Microsoft software such as Word, Excel, email and the internet.
• Knowledge of the operation of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software.
• Knowledge of water treatment techniques, processes and plant operation to provide safe water at a cost-effective level.
• Knowledge of State and Federal regulations relating to water treatment to assure compliance.
• Knowledge or skill in conducting a variety of laboratory tests to assure operational control.
• Must obtain a MDEQ Water “F4” certification within a two-year period from date of hire.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the general public.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Lifting 80 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent standing and walking.
• Occasional sitting and driving.
• Must be capable of using hands and feet for repetitive single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling and operating controls.
• Occasional bending, twisting, squatting, climbing, reaching, and grappling.
• Ability to communicate orally in a clear manner.
• Ability to distinguish sounds at various frequencies and volumes.
• Ability to distinguish people or objects at varied distances under a variety of light conditions.
• Ability to withstand high noise levels and temperature changes in the work environment.
• Awareness that hazardous chemicals are maintained on site.

This job description should not be interpreted as all inclusive.  It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of the job.  The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated on this job description.