Water Plant Operator

Application Open Date: 10/12/2026

Application Close Date: 10/26/2026

SALARY: $24.97 - $37.06 per hour.

APPLICATION INFORMATION 

This application is not for an immediate opening, by submitting an application you are applying to take a Civil Service Examination for the opportunity to be placed on an Eligible List for a future opening. To learn more about the Civil Service examinations and Eligible Lists please visit the Cleveland Civil Service Webpage: FAQs | City of Cleveland Ohio

To determine if you qualify to take the examination you must include/attach any required documents (i.e. Resume, Certifications, Driver’s License, etc....) to support you meet the Minimum Qualifications at the time of submitting your application. Please read the Minimum Qualification section carefully, you may attach PDF or JPEG .

WRITTEN EXAMINATION: The exam may be computerized, or a traditional pencil and paper designed to test the objectives of the duties and minimum qualifications of the classification. 

 Under general supervision, performs laboratory tests of water to determine water quality. Operates the treatment plant effectively and economically and implements proper procedures for treatment plant operation and maintenance to ensure desired water quality is achieved and maintained. Performs routine certified laboratory analyses to determine chemical constituents of water. Follows developed standards and approved methods. Works within a crew on a routine basis with full responsibility for the plant operation. Records, calculates and reports results of laboratory analysis, chemical feed amounts, meter readings, flow data, and filter run hours. Performs the following in accordance with standard operating procedures: Performs residuals handling, operates boilers, and operates backup generators. Inspects facility and all equipment on a scheduled basis and make all necessary adjustments to the water treatment process. Ensure proper levels of secondary storage tanks and plant clearwells are maintained. Performs preventative maintenance and calibrations of equipment and facility. Performs basic math calculations using algebra and geometry. Utilizes basic chemistry and biology as well as good problem-solving skills to perform duties. Inspect and clean filters. Cleans sludge from settling basins. Starts and transfers operations to emergency backup power as necessary and returns operations to normal mode. Maintains accurate records and maintenance logs. Utilizes a computer. Advises plant supervisor of present and potential problems in operation and maintenance. Handles hazardous chemicals. Performs general maintenance and cleaning of facility and equipment. Participates in training programs as necessary. Complies with all applicable EPA and safety regulations. Performs job-related duties as required or directed.

High School Diploma or GED required. Must be able to pass a respiratory fitness test. Must be able to go up and down ladders and stairs. Must be able to access confined spaces. Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds. Valid State of Ohio Driver's License required. Possession of the current Ohio EPA Water Supply I, II or III license is preferred. Must obtain (and maintain) the following licenses within the indicated amount of time of the date of hire: A) Water chemistry operational lab certification from the Ohio EPA within 90 days; B) Ohio EPA Class I Water Supply License within 24 months; C) Ohio EPA Class II Water Supply License within 4.5 years; (D) Ohio EPA Water Supply Class III License within 7.5 years. Must possess basic computer literacy and be familiar with Microsoft Office software.

Reminder: Minimum qualifications must be met as of the last day of the applications accepted. You must upload these documents at the time of submitting your application or email the documents to [email protected] and include the Job Title in the email. 

RESIDENCY CREDIT

In accordance with the Ordinances of the City of Cleveland: A person who has had as his/her primary residence in the City of Cleveland for at least one year at the time of filing a Civil Service application, and desires to take an entry-level Civil Service examination, shall, if a passing grade on the written examination is attained, have ten (10) points added to his/her passing score. (NOTE: Not all Examinations consider residency credit in the scoring process) To substantiate a claim for residency points, Applicants must UPLOAD LEGIBLE COPIES of the following:

• A signed and notarized Residency Affidavit available on the City’s website here:

https://www.clevelandohio.gov/sites/clevelandohio/files/AffidavitOfResidency0321.pdf

CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL SCHOOL DISTRICT (CMSD) PREFERENCE CREDIT 

An applicant who is a graduate of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) and is participating in an open competitive entrance-level examination, as determined by the Commission, shall receive an additional five (5) points upon achieving a passing score, as established in the examination announcement. Applicants must provide acceptable proof of graduation from a CMSD school at the time of application to qualify for this credit.

Veterans' preference will be awarded, when applicable, to eligible veterans in accordance with Civil Service Rules 4.40E, 4.40F and 4.40G. Proof of active service or a DD Form 214, must be presented to the Commission at the time of filing application for the examination in which credit is sought in order to qualify for veterans' credit. If the applicant has received an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions that applicant shall receive an additional five (5) points added to their raw score on the examination; or ten (10) points are added to their raw score on the examination if applicant’s supporting documentation indicates more than fifteen percent (15%) service-connected disability. NOTE: Only DD Form 214 (long form) or an official armed service document indicating type of discharge or separation and the dates of active service will be accepted as proof of active service.

Reminder: To determine if you qualify to take the examination you must include/attach any required documents (i.e. Resume, Certifications, Driver’s License, etc....) to support you meet the Minimum Qualifications. Please read the Minimum Qualification section carefully, you may attach PDF or JPEG .

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin/ancestry, military status, disability, age and religion.