Chief Water Operator

Madison Utilities; Madison (AL); On-site; USD 76,000 - 126,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent benefits

Job summary

Madison Utilities is seeking a Chief Water Operator to lead the daily operation and maintenance of our water treatment plants, wells, storage tanks, and booster stations, supervising a team of 12–15 employees.

The role emphasizes safety, compliance with regulatory requirements, and staff development, with compensation ranging from $75,629 to $125,549 per year and excellent benefits. You will drive operational excellence and ensure reliable drinking water for the community.

Qualifications

• ADEM Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certification is required.
• Five (5) years of utility operations and supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential.
• Ability to train, mentor, and lead a team while maintaining regulatory compliance.
• Candidate must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• High school diploma or GED is required; associate/bachelor’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements.
• Compile and submit monthly reports to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM).
• Oversee laboratory testing conducted in-house and via external labs.
• Maintain safety policies and operational procedures across the department.
• Review ongoing and completed projects and identify efficiency improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Training & mentoring

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate or Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Join the Madison Utilities team as our Chief Water Operator and play a vital leadership role in providing safe, reliable drinking water to the community.

As the Chief Water Operator, you will oversee and coordinate the daily operation and maintenance of Madison Utilities' water treatment plants, wells, storage tanks, and booster stations. In this rewarding leadership position, you will supervise a team of approximately 12–15 employees, providing direction, training, task delegation, and performance oversight while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate is a knowledgeable water treatment professional with demonstrated leadership experience and a commitment to operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and employee development.

If you're looking for a fulfilling career where you can make a meaningful impact, lead a dedicated team, and enjoy excellent benefits with opportunities for professional growth,

Compensation: $75,629 - $125,549 yearly

Qualifications

• ADEM Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certification (required)
• Five (5) years of utility operations and supervisory experience preferred
• Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to effectively train, mentor, and lead a team while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations
• Candidate must possess valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• A high school diploma or GED is required; Preference for candidates with associate’s or bachelor’s degree

Responsibilities

• Ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements
• Compiling and submitting monthly reports to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM)
• Overseeing laboratory testing conducted both in-house and through outside laboratories
• Ensuring all safety policies and operational procedures are consistently followed
• Reviewing ongoing and completed projects
• Identifying opportunities to improve operations and efficiencyImplementing initiatives that support the department's long-term success