Plant Operator I - Night Shift

The starting salary for this position is $56,698 to $66,701, depending on qualifications. The complete salary range for the position is currently $56,698 to $90,171. This posting is for the weekend night shift position.

Town of Normal Water Department
The Water Department is responsible for providing a safe and reliable supply of water to the citizens of Normal. The Department operates and maintains 13 wells, a lime softening treatment plant, three booster pump stations, four elevated storage tanks, one ground storage reservoir, over 202 miles of water mains, and over 17,800 meters. The Water Department also reads meters, produces bills, provides customer service, and provides water with adequate pressure and volume for fire protection.

The Plant Operator I position performs skilled work in the operation of a lime-soda water softening treatment plant.  Employees in this position are responsible for maintaining process control by collecting and recording data; starting, stopping, and adjusting chemical feed equipment, filters, and pumping equipment for proper operation; and maintaining quality control of the public water supply.  The treatment plant is a 24-hour operation with operators assigned to all shifts.  Successful candidates for this position are able to work independently and must be capable of exercising good judgment in routine operational duties.  Work is performed under the general supervision of the Treatment Plant Supervisor.

• Controls the influent and effluent of the water treatment plant by selecting well combinations and selecting and adjusting flow rates of filters and distribution pumps.
• Performs process control laboratory analysis and records and updates data as directed by the Plant Chemist.
• Makes adjustments to the treatment process based upon laboratory analysis.
• Computes chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feed machines for proper operation and application rates.
• Mix chemicals into chemical feeders which requires occasional lifting.
• Maintains surveillance of plant operating machinery and equipment to insure proper and safe operating conditions.
• Performs general maintenance and custodial work during shift as time permits.
• Works on an assigned shift based upon a 24 hour per day 7 days per week operation including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Must be capable of assuming night shift responsibilities based on a 12 hour work day.
• Must be capable of acquiring basic chemistry and mechanical knowledge needed to understand and maintain plant quality control.
• Ability to perform calibration of analytical instruments.
• Ability to read and interpret meters, charts, graphs, indicators, and other control gauges.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with superiors, associates, and the public.
• Ability to remain on one's feet and walk for lengthy periods of time, climb up and down concrete stairs, occasionally lift modestly to moderately heavy objects, and considerable stooping or bending at the waist.
• Ability to utilize technology, including Microsoft Office and departmental software systems.