Systems Operator – Apprentice

Ontario Water Works Association; Peterborough; On-site; CAD 44,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Peterborough seeks a Systems Operator to run a Class IV Water Treatment Plant in a 24/7 rotating shift. You will monitor, operate and control pumping stations, storage facilities and remote hydraulic generating plants while performing lab and dispatch duties as needed.

Applicants should have a relevant college diploma and a Water Treatment OIT certificate, with preference for higher certificates. SCADA familiarity and a strong safety record are essential.

Qualifications

• Graduate of a 2 or 3 year Community College Program, preferably in Environmental Sciences.
• Must possess a valid Water Treatment OIT Certificate of Competency; higher class certificate preferred.
• Experience operating a Class 4 Water Treatment Plant is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Monitor, operate and control pumping stations and water storage facilities.
• Monitor, operate and control hydraulic generating stations.
• Operate a Class 4 surface Water Treatment plant or other water treatment facilities as required.
• Perform routine laboratory, maintenance, clerical and dispatch duties as required.
• Maintain safety and comply with applicable laws and regulations.

Skills

SCADA familiarity

Water quality analysis

Computer skills

Teamwork

Driver's license

Education

Water Treatment Operator-in-Training (OIT) Certificate

Environment-related college program

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Position Summary

The Systems Operator is responsible for operating our Class IV Water Treatment Plant. Working in a 24/7 environment on a rotating shift, the Systems Operator is responsible for monitoring, operating and control of pumping stations, water storage facilities and remote operation of hydraulic electrical generating plants. The Systems Operator may also be required to perform various laboratory, maintenance, clerical, customer service and dispatch duties.

Key Responsibilities

1. Monitor, operate and control pumping stations and water storage facilities.
2. Monitor, operate and control hydraulic generating stations.
3. Operate a Class 4 surface Water Treatment plant or other water treatment facilities as required.
4. ORO and OIC duties in accordance with SOP-02-008.
5. Monitor SCADA System for water generation and electric operation.
6. Perform various laboratory, maintenance, customer contact, clerical and employee dispatch duties as required.
7. Continually review and have a working knowledge of pertinent legislation including:
   • Safe Drinking Water Act and Regulations
   • Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA);
   • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS);
8. Responsible for personal safety and the safety of others that is dependent upon their actions.
9. Report hazards and unsafe acts or conditions encountered on the job to fellow workers and supervisors.
10. Responsibilities as set out in Practice H24-05 (Trade Responsibilities)
11. Maintenance and other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Graduate of a 2 or 3 year Community College Program, preferably in Environmental Sciences.

Must also possess, at minimum, a valid Water Treatment Operator-in-Training (OIT) Certificate of Competency under the Province of Ontario Operator Licensing Program. Preference will be given to candidates holding a higher class Water Treatment Operator Certificate. Candidates who meet only the minimum OIT requirement will be compensated at the corresponding apprentice rate until the required level of certification is attained.

Experience operating a Class 4 Water Treatment Plant would be an asset.

Additional Requirements

1. Demonstrated ability to perform routine water quality analysis.
2. Able to work alone and with minimum supervision or in a team environment.
3. Good computer skills
4. Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA).
5. Demonstrated excellent attendance record
6. Valid Class G driver’s license and excellent driving record
7. Knowledge of safety requirements associated with the work
8. Demonstrated excellent safety record and safe-working attitude; and
9. Ability to meet the Physical Demands Analysis

Compensation

Classification for this position: IBEW Local 636, Systems Operator (Job Class 20)

$38.64-$46.12 per hour (Oct 1, 2026 fully licensed Class 4 rates)

$32.28-$43.81 per hour (Oct 1, 2026 apprentice rates)

1 Vacancy | Full-time | Temporary, up to 24 months

Hours of Work and Location

Water Treatment Plant, 1230 Water St, Peterborough, ON

Operational 24/7 – 12 hour shifts; rotating schedule; averaging 40 hours per week.

Stand‑by duties may be required, sometimes on short notice.

Advertisement Closing Date

Sunday, November 15, 2026 @ 11:59 pm

Accommodation Needs and Protection of Privacy

The City of Peterborough is an organization that strives to embrace the spirit of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive and barrier‑free environment in which all individuals have access to the City’s goods, services, and facilities. If contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise People and Culture if you require an accommodation.

The personal information submitted for employment is collected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. We thank you for your application but advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.