Water Treatment Plant Operator

Gulf Coast Water Authority; Texas City (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Gulf Coast Water Authority is seeking help with operating and learning all aspects of the water treatment plant's operation. This entry-level role emphasizes compliance with GCWA, state, and federal regulations while gaining hands-on experience.

You will assist in monitoring pumps, collecting samples, recording measurements, and performing basic analysis. The position requires a High School diploma and a plan to obtain a Class D Water Operator License within six months.

Qualifications

• High School diploma required; an associate or bachelor’s in a related field preferred.
• Class D Water Operator License must be obtained within 6 months from hire.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain water treatment plant components under guidance.
• Learn fundamentals of water treatment through on-the-job tasks and training.
• Monitor plant operations and report issues to Lead Operator.
• Take readings, collect samples, and maintain operation records.
• Apply chemicals and manage disinfection processes.
• Inspect and maintain pumps, clarifiers, tanks, and distribution systems.
• Perform basic chemical analysis to monitor treatment.

Skills

Water plant ops

License acquisition

Safety & PPE

Report writing

Communication (oral/written)

MS Office proficiency

Problem solving

Driver's license

Education

High School diploma

Assoc./Bachelor’s in related field preferred

Tools

MS Office

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for assisting with and learning all aspects of the water treatment plant's operation in full compliance with the rules and regulations of GCWA, the State of Texas, and the Federal Government.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Operate and maintain all aspects of the WTP, with instruction and oversight from a Lead Operator.
• Learn the fundamentals of proper water treatment by participating in various on-the-job tasks, classes, and independent study.
• Monitor plant operations, including controlling major pumps and motors, and inform the Lead Water Plant Operator of any observed or suspected problems while taking corrective or preventative action, as instructed.
• Take readings and measurements of unit processes, collect samples, record measurements and help maintain accurate records of plant operations and maintenance functions.
• Apply chemicals to water; add disinfectants.
• Operate and maintain clarifiers, clear well and distribution systems, and filtration systems.
• Collect and analyze water samples; record data.
• Operate reservoir gates on weekends.
• Monitor security cameras and gate entrance controls.
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of machines and equipment used to process and distribute water.
• Operate hand and power tools and equipment like tractors, mowers, forklifts, etc.
• Assist in the repair of electric motors, pumps, valves, pipes, chlorinators, ammoniator, air movers, inductors, and backflow preventers.
• Detect malfunctions by inspecting machines and equipment.
• Assist in preventive maintenance activities, such as repairing, replacing parts, etc.
• Perform minor repairs and preventative maintenance on plant equipment and structures & assist maintenance staff with major or unusual maintenance tasks.
• Perform basic physical and chemical analysis to monitor treatment efficiency.
• Ensure that all external customers, vendors, contractors, government regulators, and members of the public maintain professional and productive relationships.
• Contribute to a safe work environment by following the Authority’s safety rules, guidelines and procedures.
• Interact with organization team members and other departments professionally.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, bending, crouching, or walking. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and distinguishes between shades of color.
• The work is typically performed outdoors in a water treatment plant or a remote location, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, and irritating chemicals. Subject to 24-7-365 call out & serve on hurricane crew.

QUALIFICATIONS/PREFERRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of water treatment plant operations and maintenance.
• Ability to obtain a Class D Water Operator License within 6 months from the hire date.
• Skill in the safe use of vehicles, tools, and equipment.
• Skill in the preparation of clear and precise reports.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• High-level understanding & competency in utilizing a wide variety of software & computer applications, including MS Office, Outlook, and other applications specific to the job.
• Ability to analyze problems and implement solutions.
• A High School diploma is required, and an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License.

OTHER DUTIES

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by management to perform other duties. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time.