Equipment Operator - Water Services

City of Decatur; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

Join the City of Decatur as an Equipment Operator, where you'll maintain essential water systems and operate heavy machinery. Enjoy paid CDL training and a generous benefits package while making a positive impact in your community.

Benefits

12.5 paid holidays

Comprehensive health benefits

Excellent retirement pension plan

Paid vacation and sick leave

Free check-ups and physicals

Chronic condition management

Numerous free prescriptions for employees and dependents

Qualifications

• Some experience in general labor or equivalent training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment and perform preventive maintenance.
• Maintain water systems, check for leaks, and respond to emergencies.

Skills

Knowledge of tools and materials for water system maintenance

Ability to safely operate and maintain public works equipment

Effective communication with the public

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Join the City of Decatur as an Equipment Operator and build a hands-on career maintaining the essential systems that keep our community running. You'll operate heavy machinery, respond to water emergencies, and help ensure safe, reliable water service for residents. With paid CDL training and great benefits, this is your opportunity to grow your skills and make an impact every day.

Salary will increase to $28.17 per hour after successfully completing the six-month probationary period.

Enjoy a generous package of perks including:

• Competitive Benefits: 12.5 paid holidays, comprehensive health benefits, excellent retirement pension plan, and paid vacation and sick leave,
• Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups/physicals, chronic condition management, bloodwork, immunizations, and numerous free prescriptions for employees and dependents.

Equipment Operation

• Operate heavy equipment, dump trucks, and small public works machinery
• Perform preventive maintenance and minor equipment repairs as directed

Water System Maintenance & Repair

• Maintain water systems by checking for leaks, installing and repairing mains, hydrants, service taps, and curb boxes
• Conduct pressure tests and sterilize water mains
• Investigate and repair water leaks in the distribution system
• Locate and operate water valves and other system components
• Perform preventive and emergency maintenance for the Water Services Division
• Respond to water system emergencies outside of regular hours

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Some experience in general labor or equivalent training and experience

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid Illinois driver’s license required
• Must obtain a CDL within 6 months (City-provided training)

Technical Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of tools and materials for water system maintenance
• Familiarity with water system safety procedures, traffic laws, and Illinois EPA/Plumbing Code regulations
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings and maps

Operational & Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to safely operate and maintain public works equipment
• Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and communicate effectively with the public
• Physical ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions for extended periods

Examination Process

1. Written Examination All applicants must take a written examination. The passing criteria for the written examination is 70.00%.
2. Oral InterviewApplicants passing the written test must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
3. Veteran PointsApplicants passing the written test and oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
4. Seniority PointsApplicable persons passing the written test and oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points for each full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.

The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace. This includes marijuana. Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, and background check post offer.

Residency
The Equipment Operator - Water Services position is covered under the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) collective bargaining agreement. AFSCME employees shall reside within 50 miles of the corporate limits of City of Decatur. An appointee may reside outside said limits but must comply no later than 90 days after the completion of the six-month probationary period.

To Apply
Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply today to become an Equipment Operator with the City of Decatur and gain valuable skills, long-term stability, and the satisfaction of serving your community. . Complete an application at the link below with all requested relevant information.Incomplete applications will be rejected. Downloading a resume can prefill some application sections but does not replace the application.