This position is a member of the Public Works Department which includes the Water Treatment Plant. This dual-role position requires a combination of technical maintenance expertise and operational knowledge to ensure the water treatment plant runs efficiently and meets regulatory standards. The successful candidate will maintain and repair plant equipment, and step in as a relief operator to support day-to-day plant operations, ensuring continuous and safe water production. All within accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Successful candidates must establish residency within Madison or St. Clair Counties in Illinois or within twenty-five miles of City limits, within twelve (12) months of hire date. This is a union position with the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 148.

Representative Work Functions and Responsibilities

All operations and maintenance pertaining to the water treatment process at the treatment plant. Duties very depending upon which shift the operator is working and if it is a regular day or weekend shift:

• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting on water treatment equipment, including pumps, motors, valves, filters, chemical dosing systems, and electrical components.
• Diagnose, repair, and calibrate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to maintain optimal plant performance.
• Monitor and maintain plant equipment to minimize downtime, improve efficiency, and extend equipment lifespan.
• Operate water treatment processes, including monitoring water quality, chemical dosing, and pump systems.
• Adjust equipment and system parameters to maintain water quality and quantity within regulatory standards.
• Perform routine water sampling and lab testing to ensure compliance with water quality standards.
• Respond to plant alarms and operational issues, adjusting or performing corrective actions as necessary.
• Perform routine operator checks and monitor SCADA systems to track operational performance.
• Troubleshooting and maintaining SCADA systems.
• Troubleshooting and programming PLCs.
• Reading and interpreting electrical controls and drawings.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent , and the following experience and/or education/training:

• Associate degree or equivalent in electrical engineering technology, instrumentation & controls, industrial automation, or related field.
• Previous water treatment, sewer treatment, water distribution system, water main/sewer installation or maintenance, or plumbing experience.
• Certification in water treatment and/or plant operations
• Strong mechanical, electrical, and troubleshooting skills, with experience in industrial or water treatment systems.
• The ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations.
• This position's regular hours are dayshifts Monday through Friday and the ability to work as a relief operator on rotating shifts consisting of day, evening, and night shifts, holidays and weekends, and some required extended shifts and overtime as needed.

Walking, standing, sitting, stooping, and lifting of various material and equipment over 50 lbs. is required daily. The ability to climb ladders, stairs, and an elevated water storage tower in all weather conditions. Must be able to reach, grasp, bend, and work with power and hand tools in bent over and overhead positions. Infrequently (i.e., during semiannual plant cleanup), the use of air hammers and chippers to remove heavy calcium carbonate buildup and crawling on the stomach through dark and wet pipes and passages may also be required. The ability to enter and work in confined spaces while wearing a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus is required.

Candidate must have basic knowledge of algebra, environmental science, and water chemistry. Knowledge of mechanics, electricity, process control, and instrumentation is preferred. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge of OSHA rules and standards.

Must be able to report for work on time and to perform the duties of the job for the entire workday. Must be able to work flexible hours with some weekend, evening, and holiday work required. Must be able to perform frequent overtime work which may involve late night or early morning hours.

SALARY and BENEFITS

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the pay range begins at $32.98 per hour, depending on qualifications. The City offers a generous comprehensive benefits package, which includes health, vision, and prescription 100% funded by the City for single coverage. Pension is with the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.

APPLICATION

To receive full consideration, applications must be received by midnight on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Successful candidates must pass a criminal background, physical, and drug screening after contingent job offer.