DWM Watershed Plant Operator (Chattahoochee)

Posting Expires: October 27, 2026

General Description and Classification Standards

Provides continuous, economical, and maintains EPA compliance of the drinking water for the citizens of the Atlanta area. Operates, monitors, maintains, and trouble-shoots the water treatment facility and its processes in an effort to prevent violations and to keep the water safe. This is an experienced, skilled or technical level capable of carrying out most assignments typical of the position or specialty with limited guidance or review. This level would be considered an influential level for operations and attainable by any incumbents in a work group who possessed the required minimum qualifications and demonstrates the necessary knowledge, ability, and performance. Could be the only position in this specialty in a work group or could be part of a general or specialized work team.

Supervision Received

Works under minimal supervision. May assist in training, orienting, or observing lower-level associate, apprentice, or semi-skilled employee in the group.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities  

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. May perform other duties as assigned.

• Performs all aspects of sampling, monitoring and testing required to maintain compliance with Federal, State and Local regulations governing the water treatment process, and storm water and sludge management.
• Assists in the performance of regular and unscheduled maintenance and repairs on all plant equipment and machinery. Conducts the necessary weekly checks of the treatment plant on a rotating basis. Performs all work in conformance to Occupational Safety and Health Act regulations
• On call to respond to emergencies and breakdowns at the plant and pump stations.
• Trains individuals of proper procedures in maintaining the City's water facilities.

Expectations of Hours of Service, Emergency and Stand-by Service : Employees in this position may be required to work rotating shifts and/or stand-by service to address operational needs and emergencies as required. May be required to work extended periods away from the normal reporting location. Must be able to work rotating shifts.

Decision Making

Follows standardized procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned tasks.

Leadership Provided

Provides guidance and training as required to lower level, interns, temporary employees, etc.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully. It is not an exhaustive list.

• Knowledge of the operation, methods and procedures of a drinking water treatment plant; knowledge of the machinery and process used for drinking water treatment and pumping stations; knowledge of mechanical equipment and the ability to diagnose and correct equipment malfunction; knowledge of basic machinery preventive maintenance and repair; knowledge of State and Federal regulations governing drinking water and worker’s safety; knowledge of laboratory procedures and terminology; knowledge of Chemistry Terminology. Skill in communicating effectively verbally and in writing; skill in solving complex problems independently; skill in operating , composite samplers, and various lab test equipment.
• Ability to work and make routine decisions on the operation of the plant processes and equipment; ability to treat the water in a safe, effective manner; ability to work outdoors in any kind of weather; ability to read and understand design drawings and plans; ability to operate a company vehicle and pick-up truck. 

• High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• 3 years of work experience in a drinking water plant or a related area.

Licensures and Certifications

• Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License required.  
• Class I Water License required.
• Forklift Certification desirable.

Class II - Minimum Qualifications – Education and Experience

• High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• 1 - 2 years of work experience in a wastewater plant or a related area.

Preferred Education & Experience

• High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
• 1 - 2 years of work experience in a wastewater plant or a related area.

Licensures and Certifications

• Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License required. 
• Class II Wastewater License required.
• Forklift Certification and/or Class B CDL desirable.

Class III - Minimum Qualifications – Education and Experience

• High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED).
• 1 year of work experience in a drinking water plant or a related area.

Preferred Education & Experience

• Must be able to receive Class 2 license within 12 months.

Licensures and Certifications

• Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License required. 
• Class III Water License required.
• Forklift Certification desirable.

Trainee - Minimum Qualifications - Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED

Preferred Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED

Licensures and Certifications

• Valid State of Georgia Driver’s License required. 
• Must be able to receive Class III license withing 12 months. 

Essential Capabilities and Work Environment 

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with job.