Water Operator I

Position: Water Operator I

Hourly Starting Salary Range: $21.27 to $27.44 (DOQ)

Location: Lewisville, TX

Normal Work Hours: Day Shift 6:00am to 6:00pm, Night Shift 6:00pm to 6:00am, Rotating 3-4 Schedule

Position Function:

Working under close supervision, this role supports the safe and reliable operation of surface water treatment plants and transmission systems. The Operator I assists with sampling, inspections, data logging, and basic maintenance to ensure high-quality drinking water that meets or exceeds all state and federal standards. This position provides structured on-the-job training and prepares employees for higher-level operator roles and eventual licensure through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This position is classified as Essential Personnel, requiring attendance as scheduled and during emergency response situations, including severe weather events when travel may be difficult, to maintain continuous plant operations and protect public health and safety.

Typical/Essential Duties:

• Assist licensed operators with plant operations using SCADA and field instruments. Monitor flow rates, turbidity, disinfectant levels, and chemical feed systems. Inspect pumps, valves, basins, and other equipment for mechanical issues and report issues promptly. Collect and test water samples for parameters such as pH, turbidity, chlorine, and ammonia.
• Perform in-house water quality testing, assist with jar testing, and adjust chemical feed rates. Record and calculate treatment metrics such as chlorine contact time (CT), chlorine concentration, and the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) to support process control and ensure compliance with water quality standards. Assist with the coordination of third-party lab sample pickups for regulatory testing, maintaining strict chain-of-custody and documentation requirements for all samples.
• Under the supervision of a licensed operator monitor and adjust distribution system flows, process conditions, and storage levels. This is done both in the field and remotely through the SCADA system to ensure operations stay within established performance guidelines. Perform field inspections at pump stations, valves, and vaults, identify potential issues, log data, and report safety hazards or abnormalities to licensed operators. Assist transmission operators with field activities like valve exercising, system flushing, and routine maintenance tasks.
• Participate in structured on-the-job training covering safety procedures, standard operating protocols, and the fundamentals of both conventional and membrane-based water treatment processes. Shadow licensed operators to gain experience with plant workflows, SCADA operations, plant-specific terminology and daily routines. Complete required coursework toward a TCEQ Class C Surface Water Operator License.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. Clean and maintain treatment buildings, storm drains, and equipment areas. Follow OSHA, TCEQ, and internal safety protocols, including correct PPE usage, lock-out/tag-out procedures, and confined space awareness. Report safety incidents or concerns and participate in safety drills.
• Assist in gathering data for regulatory reports such as the Surface Water Monthly Operating Report (SWMOR). Accurately log operational readings and assist in preparing daily reports. Complete clear shift handover notes and maintain accurate documentation in CMMS or Excel. Verify and file shift logs, forms, and simple administrative records accurately. Communicate supply needs and assist with sample delivery or supply pickups as needed.
• Performs additional duties assigned to support plant operations and team success.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• College coursework or a degree in Environmental Science, Water Technology, Biology, or Chemistry is preferred.
• Previous experience in water treatment or utility operations is a plus but not a requirement.
• Must obtain TCEQ Class “C” Surface Water license within 2 years of start date.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Basic understanding of water treatment principles or willingness to learn.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, familiarity with SCADA, CMMS, HMI systems, GIS mapping, and lab data systems is preferred.
• Ability to work in outdoor and industrial environments, including confined spaces.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Work involves exposure to hazardous chemicals, mechanical equipment, and varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, and perform physical tasks.
• Must be available to work varying shifts (day or night), weekends, and holidays, and to respond promptly to emergency events as part of Essential Personnel duties. Interested candidates should be willing and able to meet these scheduling requirements.

Other Requirements:

• Valid Texas Driver’s License is required.
• Must be able to pass applicable pre-employment Drug Screen, Physical, and Background Checks.

Application Process

• All applicants must complete an employment application and submit it to the District’s Human Resources Department, visit the District’s website at www.utrwd.com/join-our-team to obtain an application and for instructions on how to apply.

Pay: $21.27 - $27.44 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Dependent health insurance coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Military leave
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Valid TX Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Lewisville, TX 75057 (Required)

Work Location: In person