Water Works Plant Operations Specialist I-IV Rotating Shifts

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title:

Water Works Plant Operations Specialist I-IV -

Rotating Shifts Department:

Water Works Reports to:

Water Works Superintendent FLSA Status:

Nonexempt Salary Grade:

13A 2026

Wage:

$24.78 per hour

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for performing specialized duties in the operation of a water treatment plant and in the maintenance of plant equipment, facilities, vehicles, and grounds. Shifts are 7 days: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Thursday through Wednesday. Then off work for 7 days. Next shift will be 7:00 pm to 7:00 am Thursday through Wednesday. Shifts will continue to rotate.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operates equipment to control water flow and maintain proper operating levels. Monitors the SCADA system to ensure proper plant operations. Services, maintains, operates, and repairs facilities and equipment, including pumping devices, chlorination and other chemical feed systems, storage facilities, and related equipment. Collects samples; performs laboratory analyses to ensure that treatment facilities are operating efficiently; carries out corrective actions. Makes rounds of plant; reads gauges and meters; records readings. Maintains maintenance and chemical analysis records; prepares logs, records, and reports, including required local, state, and federal reports. Maintains plant facilities; paints interior and exterior surfaces; makes minor building repairs. Responds to after-hours emergencies. Attends required training classes. Responsible for security and oversight of the facilities to include monitoring and observation of trespassing, theft, or other criminal activity and reporting it at the time of observation. Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Knowledge of treatment principles, operations, and equipment. Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs. Knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, hydraulics, and biology. Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures and federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Knowledge of the installation, repair, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment. Knowledge of electrical components and wiring. Knowledge of plant operational processes. Knowledge of building and ground maintenance principles. Skill in the operation and maintenance of mechanical and electronic equipment. Skill in planning, organization, and decision making. Skill in thinking clearly under difficult circumstances. Skills in oral and written communication. Skill in the operation of ground maintenance equipment. Skill in the operation of hand and power tools.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Water Works Superintendent assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include federal and state drinking water regulations, OSHA regulations, and city policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

The work consists of related operations and maintenance duties. Changing water conditions, inclement weather, and unexpected equipment failures contribute to the complexity of the position. The purpose of this position is to perform specialized duties in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant. Successful performance helps ensure the provision of safe drinking water.

CONTACTS

Contacts are typically with co-workers, representatives of state and federal agencies, vendors, contractors, and the general public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity. Must be able to distinguish between colors and shades of color and utilize the sense of smell. The work is typically performed in an office, at water treatment facilities, and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of South Dakota for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Possession of or ability to readily obtain within eighteen months a South Dakota Class I Operators Certificate in Water Treatment. Upon certification an incumbent in this position may be designated Specialist II and placed at grade 14, Specialist III and placed at grade 15, or Specialist IV and placed at grade 16.

RESIDENCY

All new hires must reside within 40 miles of city limits unless specific approval of City Manager.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I

acknowledge that I have received and reviewed this job description. I understand that this job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required for the position. I understand that job duties, responsibilities, and assignments may change at any time based on the needs of the City and in accordance with applicable policies, contracts, ordinances, or collective bargaining agreements. I further acknowledge that I am able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

OPENING DATE

May 12, 2026

CLOSING DATE:

Open Until Filled Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$24.78 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person