Water Plant Operator I

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Water Plant Operator to join our Utilities Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of the City's water treatment facilities to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of potable water to our community in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. 

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here! 

About this Opportunity 
Operates water treatment plants and remote sites in accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations.  Controls, monitors, analyzes, interprets, and evaluates situations and conditions within treatment and distribution processes to comply with Public Water Supply (PWS) Operating Permit, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), and local policies.

Continuous operations; works under minimal supervision; work schedules are pre-established; shift vacancies are filled based on operational need; work is assigned based on operational need; work is repetitive and routine.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Operates water treatment plant processes (lime softening, coagulation, chloramine disinfection, pH adjustment, filtration, fluoridation, corrosion control);
• Operates remote sites (pump stations, distribution storage, wells, and dam);
• Controls and monitors treatment and distribution processes in manual mode or automated mode;
• Collects and appropriately logs data from hardware devices and software applications;
• Collects, analyzes, and interprets water and other process samples. Makes adjustments;
• Anticipates distribution system situations and conditions and adjusts treatment and supply;
• Cleans, services and performs Operator level maintenance on equipment and work areas;
• Occasionally move up to 55 pound bags of various chemicals;
• Troubleshoots equipment and performs Operator level corrections;
• Initiates work request for Maintenance level support;
• Receives and appropriately logs visitors. Provides safety briefing for new visitors;
• Receives shipments and deliveries. Processes slips, tickets, invoices, and other documents;
• Monitors and logs daily chemical use and inventory;
• Monitors access control and security system and limits entry and access of non-essential personnel;
• Successfully completes all required technical, safety and organizational training;
• Conducts plant tours;
• Performs additional duties not specified above

Acceptable Experience and Training:
High school diploma or GED required;
Bachelor’s degree, Associate of Arts or Science degree preferred;
Environmental, mathematics, and science course work preferred;
Vocational technical school credits in water treatment/distribution or industrial manufacturing preferred;
Experience working in water treatment or industrial manufacturing preferred;

Required Special Qualifications:
State of Iowa Public Water System Certificate Treatment Grade 1 within twelve months of appointment.Work Schedule

• 12am-8am including weekends and holidays

• Hourly Rate

  The Water Plant Operator I is covered under the AFSCME Bargaining Union, and all new hires begin employment at $27.94 per hour, regardless of years of experience. Employees in this classification receive a step increase on their anniversary. The steps effective 7/1/2026 include:

  New Hire	1 year	2 years	3 years
  $27.94	$30.92	$32.76	$34.56