Chief Plant Operator (Wastewater)

Zephyrhills; Florida; On-site; USD 53,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, life insurance

Florida Retirement System (FRS)

Job summary

The City of Zephyrhills is seeking an experienced Wastewater Plant Supervisor to manage the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment facility. You will supervise plant operators, plan work, and ensure compliance with regulations.

Responsibilities include inspecting facilities, performing preventive maintenance, sampling, adjusting chemical feeds, and logging data. Intermittent in‑absence duties and on‑call rotations may be required. Competitive benefits offered.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; associate degree preferred.
• At least 5 years’ experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Florida DEP Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Class B or higher license, or obtain within 6 months of employment.
• Florida Class B CDL with air brake and tanker endorsement, or obtain within 6 months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the wastewater treatment facility and supervise plant operators.
• Inspect buildings and equipment; perform preventative maintenance and adjustments.
• Collect water samples, adjust chemical feed rates and log data accurately.
• May participate in on‑call rotations and may work overtime including nights, weekends and holidays.

Skills

Wastewater operations

Supervisory experience

Collections experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree preferred

Florida DEP Wastewater Operator Class B or higher license

Florida CDL Class B with air brake & tanker endorsement

Job description

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Pay Grade Z-163

Exempt / Mandatory Testing

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or GED. Associate degree in related field preferred. Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, maintenance and repair, with at least two (2) of those years at the supervisory level. Collections experience preferred. State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Class “B” or higher license, or obtain within six (6) months of employment. Thorough knowledge of the operating principles, practices, and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant and the mechanical, electrical, chemical, instrumentation/control, and computer equipment therein. Must possess a valid State of Florida Class B CDL driver license with air brake and tanker endorsement, or obtain within six (6) months of employment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

This position receives broad direction to complete objectives and goals within parameters set by the Wastewater Superintendent or Utilities Director. Responsible for the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility. Supervise, plan, and assign the work of plant operators and fill‑in for employees during absences. Inspect plant buildings and equipment; perform preventative maintenance and adjustments. Collect water samples, adjust chemical feed rates and accurately log data. Order parts and maintain inventory. Serve as Interim in the absence of the Wastewater Superintendent. May participate in on call rotations. Must be able to work overtime including nights, weekends, and holidays as required. Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

The selected candidate will have a background check completed, undergo drug testing, and complete a physical exam before employment. Works in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to varying goals, priorities, and needs.

The compensation package will start at the base salary range and may vary based on proven abilities of the individual selected. The City of Zephyrhills has an excellent benefit package, which includes medical, dental, life insurance, and Florida Retirement System (FRS).

THE CITY OF ZEPHYRHILLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER & DRUG FREE WORKPLACE

Category Full-Time Status Open Salary Starting Salary: $58,832.25 / $28.28/hr.Pay Grade Z-163 Posted April 7, 2026 8:00 AM Closing Open Until Filled