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CO
City of Helena-West Helena
Water Department Manager
Career Insights for Water Treatment Specialist / Waste Water Operator
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Based on Arkansas data
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What they do
A Water Treatment Specialist or Waste Water Operator operates and monitors equipment in facilities that treat wastewater. Monitors treatment processes so that water is cleaned to meet public health and environmental standards and is safe for drinking or releasing into the environment.
$54,253 / year median in Arkansas
+2% projected growth
Job Description
Job Overview We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Water Department Manager to lead and oversee all aspects of water and wastewater systems within our utility operations. This vital role involves managing the maintenance, operation, and safety of water treatment facilities, distribution networks, and wastewater treatment plants. The ideal candidate will bring a proactive approach to ensuring environmental compliance, optimizing system performance, and maintaining the highest safety standards. As a key leader, you will coordinate with teams to deliver reliable water services while adhering to regulatory requirements and industry best practices. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on community health and environmental sustainability through innovative management and technical expertise. Responsibilities Oversee daily operations of water treatment plants, wastewater systems, and distribution networks to ensure efficient performance and regulatory compliance. Manage maintenance schedules for industrial pumps, water treatment equipment, and heavy machinery, including repair and troubleshooting of mechanical components. Supervise staff responsible for pump operation, equipment repair, data collection, and system analysis to maintain optimal functionality. Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by all team members and enforce strict adherence to safety regulations during all operational activities. Coordinate construction projects related to water infrastructure upgrades or repairs, ensuring timely completion within safety standards. Conduct inspections of wastewater systems, water treatment processes, and plumbing infrastructure to identify issues early and implement corrective actions. Maintain detailed records of equipment maintenance, system performance data, environmental compliance reports, and incident logs for accountability and reporting purposes. Experience Proven experience working in the energy & utilities sector with a focus on water or wastewater treatment operations. Strong mechanical knowledge with hands-on experience in industrial pump maintenance and repair. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and water treatment control equipment. Experience operating heavy equipment such as cranes or construction machinery used in infrastructure projects. Knowledge of environmental regulations related to water utility distribution, wastewater treatment, and environmental compliance standards. Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data sets related to water systems performance using basic math and analysis skills. Prior experience in construction or infrastructure projects involving plumbing, heavy lifting, or equipment installation is highly desirable.