Operator I- Drinking Water

Capital Region Water; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits and training opportunities

Job summary

Capital Region Water is seeking an Operator I to perform semi-skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Dr. Robert E. Young Water Services Center. This role includes responsibilities such as monitoring systems, conducting laboratory analyses for water treatment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.

The ideal candidate must have a high school diploma and experience or training in water treatment, along with the ability to perform physical demands of the job. Competitive compensation and benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• Experience or training related to water treatment operations, utilities, or industrial processes.
• Ability to perform physical work, including lifting up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to use required personal protective equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform semi-skilled work in operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities.
• Monitor systems, identify problems, and take corrective actions.
• Conduct laboratory analyses for water treatment processes.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Adaptability to varied conditions

General knowledge of water treatment processes

Data analysis

Ability to understand technical manuals

Ability to follow instructions

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)

Water treatment coursework or related education

Tools

Pumps

Control panels

Safety equipment

Job description

We are always looking for talented, energetic, and hard‑working employees that want to serve their community.

Company name: Capital Region Water

Title of position: Operator I

Position type: Non‑Exempt (Hourly)

Location: Water Services Center

Join the CReW!

We offer competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for training and career development.

Description of responsibilities

The Operator I is responsible for performing semi-skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Dr. Robert E. Young Water Services Center and at various other Water Unit Facilities. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Operations Supervisor/Superintendent or other Water Bureau management staff. Employees are required to work shifts that include days, nights, weekends, emergencies, and holidays; this typically involves 12‑hour shifts on a non‑rotating schedule.

Work involves the use of

• Stationery and portable pumps, valves, gates, gauges, meters, control panels, log sheets, process control equipment and motor vehicles.
• Chemicals such as chlorine, lime, liquid alum, ammonia, and caustic soda are used on a day‑to‑day basis.
• Work also includes the operation of unit processes equipment such as flocculators, sludge thickeners, and mixed media/sand filters.
• Laboratory analyses are also performed as part of the process control measures for water treatment processes.
• Employees are subject to noise and vibration, fumes, odors, hazardous conditions, dust, poor ventilation, and inclement weather in the work environment.
• Safety equipment such as dust‑masks, breathing apparatus/respirators, gas detectors, hearing protectors, safety glasses, harnesses, first‑aid stations, and alarm systems, etc. will be used.

Required experience

• Experience or training related to water treatment operations, utilities, industrial processes, or a related field.
• Experience working in industrial or plant environments with exposure to hazardous conditions.
• Experience in performing custodial, maintenance and preventive maintenance duties necessary for normal plant operations.
• Perform physical work, including lifting up to 60 pounds and performing staff rescue when required.

Required skills

• Ability to perform work requiring manual dexterity and physical effort.
• Ability to adapt to varied working conditions and shift schedules.
• General knowledge of water treatment processes and equipment.
• Ability to understand and apply operating techniques and procedures.
• Ability to monitor systems, identify problems, and determine appropriate corrective actions.
• Ability to respond promptly and effectively to emergencies and hazardous situations.
• Ability to collect, assemble, and analyze data and prepare clear, concise reports.
• Ability to use computers, tablets, and smartphones for data entry and documentation.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and apply technical manuals, instructions, and equipment literature.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations, including algebraic formulas.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to maintain accurate records related to plant operations and maintenance.
• Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators (SCBA).
• Ability to pass a respiratory fit test.
• Knowledge of workplace safety principles and practices. Training is provided during orientation with a review on an annual basis.

Required Education & Training

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Water treatment coursework or related education preferred.
• A combination of skills, education and experience providing an equivalent background and a demonstrated ability to perform the duties and achieve certification of a water treatment facility operator.
• Ability to pass the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Water Operator Certification Examination for the appropriate class and subclasses within 30 months following successful completion of the probationary period.
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License, Class C.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Capital Region Water is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Capital Region Water actively promotes a diverse and drug‑free workplace.