Water Plant Operator I-IV

Ashland, Ky; Kentucky; On-site; USD 27,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Kentucky Retirement

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

Free City Gym Access

YMCA Membership Discounts

Job summary

Ashland Water Department in Kentucky seeks a Supervisor-level Operator to oversee daily plant operations and maintenance. You will supervise Class III/IV staff, monitor pumps and meters, adjust chemicals, and ensure compliance with procedures and laws.

The role requires a Class I–IV Water Plant Operator license, a high school diploma, willingness to work irregular hours, and the ability to respond to emergencies. Beginning pay is listed with progression.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent with license eligibility.
• Must obtain Class I Water Plant Operator License within one year.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to respond to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Assist in daily operation and maintenance of the water plant.
• Inspect pumps, gauges, wells, tanks, and meters daily.
• Prepare reports and maintain accurate records.
• Add and adjust chemicals per standards and assist lab staff.

Skills

Report writing

Chemical handling

Equipment inspection

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Supervisor: Chief Operator

Supervises: Class III and IV may supervise lower Class employees

Grade: 4, 6, 8, 9 Beginning Pay: $19.938/hr.-$28.354/hr.

Class Characteristics: Assists in the daily operation and maintenance of the water plant. Operator III and IV may assume responsibility for water plant in absence of Superintendent.

General Duties and Responsibilities: Assists in the daily operation and maintenance of the water plant involving collection and distribution of water in compliance with established procedures, standards, laws, and ordinances. Inspects and monitors pumps, charts, gauges, wells, tanks, and meters daily. Adds and adjusts chemicals in accordance with prescribed standards. Assists lab personnel in collection of water samples. Prepares and maintains accurate reports and records. Forwards water samples, reports, and other documentation as required. Performs servicing requirements on plant and equipment including preventative maintenance and forwards requests for larger projects to supervisor. Monitors and maintains adequate inventory of spare parts, chemicals, equipment, and tools. Assists in maintaining clean and neat plant and grounds. Class II-IV have additional duties and responsibilities. Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Training and Experience:
Graduation from high school or equivalent supplemented by work experience acceptable by the Kentucky Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet to have received a Class I (immediately upon completion of one year employment), II, III, or IV Water Plant Operators License.

Certification/Licensing Requirements: Must be able to obtain a Class I Water Plant Operator License issued by the Commonwealth of Kentucky immediately upon completion of one year of employment in the position; or possess a Class II, III, or IVA Water Plant Operator License issued by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Availability Requirement: Must be able to work irregular hours and assigned shift. Must be able to respond to calls in emergency situations at all hours.

Closing Date and Time for Accepting Applications: Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.

Benefit Summary

Kentucky Retirement, Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance, City Paid Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation, Flexible Spending Account, Paid Leave (Sick, Vacation), Free Access City Building Gym, and Discounts for YMCA Membership.

Equal Opportunity Employer