Water Treatment Plant Operator

By admin | March 31, 2026

Position/Classification: Water Treatment Plant Operator               FULL TIME

Department:  Water Filtration & Distribution Status: Non-Exempt

Union:  Teamsters  

Due Date for Application: 4/20/2026

About Us:  Muskegon Heights is one of the oldest communities located in the southwest quadrant of Muskegon County, just a short 10-minute drive from the stunning shores of Lake Michigan. With a close-knit community of just over 9,000 residents, Muskegon Heights combines rich history with a vibrant present, making it a wonderful place to live and work.

Reporting to: Water Plant Lead Operator

This position involves technical, semi-skilled, and labor work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment and machinery at the Water Treatment Plant and its distribution system. Responsibilities include maintaining records, preparing reports, conducting water quality tests, and performing other related tasks.

Essential Job Functions:

The employee may be tasked with the following functions, which are not exhaustive:

  • Operate treatment plant machines and equipment to ensure continuous water treatment in compliance with state regulations.
  • Manage the facility’s SCADA system.
  • Record water flow rates, pressure, temperature, and chemical usage; operate low service, transfer, and high service pumps, including chemical feed pumps.
  • Assist in preparing weekly and monthly reports for internal management and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
  • Troubleshoot and repair all equipment.
  • Conduct laboratory tests for coliform bacteria, pH, turbidity, hardness, alkalinity, fluoride, and chlorine residual.
  • Perform related duties as required.

Special Duties:

In addition to daily operations, the operator will perform meter readings, conduct service calls, collect water samples, and handle basic water distribution tasks (meter maintenance, service turn-on/off).

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED; an undergraduate degree in municipal water treatment is preferred.
  • Minimum F4 certification from EGLE or ability to obtain it within 12 months.
  • Knowledge of water treatment plant operations, maintenance, and regulations.
  • Familiarity with water pumping and distribution systems.
  • Ability to follow water sampling and testing procedures.
  • Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Knowledge of chemicals used in testing and treatment.
  • Ability to work independently and remain onsite until relieved or plant shutdown.
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division; use of percentages and ratios).
  • Proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking) and MS Office (Excel, Word).

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

  • Requires regular walking, sitting, and use of hands; must be able to stand, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Frequently lift and move light to heavy items; navigate between worksites and climb stairs.
  • Exposure to moving mechanical parts, heavy machinery, and varying weather conditions.

Annual Salary:  $52,884.45 – 60,023.28

How to Apply:  Please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] by 4/20/2026.

Posted in Career Opportunities