Description

The Water Operator is responsible for the safe and compliant operation of Alabama drinking water treatment facilities and related distribution system activities. The role ensures continuous production of safe, potable water by monitoring and adjusting treatment processes, performing laboratory tests, documenting data for regulatory reports, and coordinating with maintenance and customer service teams.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and optimize surface and/or groundwater treatment processes (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection).

• Continuously monitor process parameters via SCADA and in-plant instruments; make set‑point adjustments to maintain compliance and product quality.

• Perform routine and compliance sampling and testing (e.g., turbidity, pH, alkalinity, jar tests, chlorine residuals, fluoride if applicable).

• Document operational data and complete logs, rounds, and shift reports; support monthly operational reporting and records retention requirements.

• Maintain distribution system water quality: verify disinfectant residuals, perform flushing, support THM/HAA5 reduction strategies, and respond to water quality complaints.

• Backwash filters, inspect/clean basins, maintain chemical feed systems, and calibrate analyzers (chlorine, turbidity, pH, fluoride).

• Respond to alarms and abnormal conditions; troubleshoot process upsets and coordinate corrective actions with maintenance and supervision.

• Follow and enforce safety procedures (LOTO, confined space, PPE, chemical handling) and actively participate in safety meetings and training.

• Support cross-functional work with maintenance and field crews (valves, hydrants, meters) and assist during main breaks/boil-water events as directed.

• Assist with inventories, chemical orders, deliveries, and vendor coordination; maintain housekeeping standards in plant and lab areas.

• Provide guidance/mentoring to junior operators; participate in shift coverage and on‑call rotations, including nights/weekends/holidays.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical coursework or associate degree in water technology or related field preferred.

• Current Alabama Water Treatment Operator certification (ADEM) required.

• 1-3+ years of progressive experience in drinking water treatment operations (surface and/or groundwater).

• Working knowledge of treatment processes, laboratory methods, and distribution water quality practices.

• Computer proficiency with SCADA/HMI and Microsoft 365 (Excel/Word/Outlook); ability to learn CMMS for work orders.

• Valid driver's license with acceptable record; ability to pass background, MVR, and drug/alcohol testing per company/client requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Alabama systems and familiarity with ADEM drinking water rules and reporting formats.

• Experience with optimization initiatives (e.g., turbidity optimization, filter maintenance planning, storage tank turnover, flushing plans).

• Knowledge of Lead and Copper Rule sampling protocols and distribution system water quality management.

• Experience with jar testing, chemical dose optimization, and seasonal process adjustments.

• Backflow/cross‑connection knowledge; ability to read plans, as‑builts, and GIS maps.

Physical & Work Environment

• Work in plant and field environments with exposure to weather, noise, odors, chemicals, and process equipment.

• Frequent standing, walking, climbing stairs and ladders; ability to lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs; occasional confined space entry per safety protocols.

• Shift work, weekends, holidays, and on‑call response as assigned.Inframark is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.

Learn more about us at Operations and Maintenance - Inframark