Treatment Plant Lead Operator

ABOUT THE ROLE This position plans work and oversees the activities of Treatment Plant Operators and Maintenance Operators to ensure maximum efficiency of the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) or Water Reclamation Facility (WRF). The role involves monitoring operations and maintenance activities to meet operational compliance goals. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Monitor effluent water flow to ensure State and Federal guidelines are met and report to management - Monitor, check, and direct the work of subordinate operators and maintenance personnel - Make chemical, operating, maintenance, or laboratory procedure changes when appropriate - Respond to emergencies such as pump failures, equipment breakdowns, turbid water conditions, and malfunctions of rate controllers, chlorinators, and chemical feeding equipment - Oversee treatment plant operations during the absence of the Plant Manager and Assistant Plant Manager - Maintain lists and routinely inform maintenance personnel of equipment problems, working to resolve them as experience allows - Record, update, and maintain records for proper equipment and operational performance - Present programs and conduct tours for the general public as requested - Assist in the asset management program to achieve maximum useful life of all equipment - Assist in maintaining accurate records in asset management software for work orders and equipment information - Monitor work of different operating shifts to ensure consistency of work procedures - Serve as a trainer for all new operators - Assist in training, implementing, and enforcing safety programs - Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new and existing water treatment regulations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - High School Diploma or G.E.D. - Three years of experience in Water Treatment (for WTP) or Wastewater Treatment (for WRF) - Class I Water Operator's license (for WTP) or Class I Wastewater Operator's license (for WRF) required - Valid Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) - Technical school diploma in a related field is desired SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Designated as a safety-sensitive position - Mandatory pre-employment physical examination and drug screening - Subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout the duration of employment - Must be able to lift 50 lbs. - Subject to working weekends, different shifts, and recall to duty in cases of emergency - Position qualifies for up to a maximum of 15% in certification incentive pay based on the attainment of specific Level I, II, or III Water/Wastewater Maintenance Technologist Certificates or Class I/II Operator Licenses SELECTION PROCESS - Selection is based on meeting minimum qualifications, required licenses, and relevant experience. The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. HOW TO APPLY - Specific application instructions are not detailed in the provided text. Candidates should refer to the official City of Gainesville employment website or career portal and search for Job Number 01078 to submit an application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full Time - Department: Department of Water Resources - Division: Flat Creek - Location: 2641 Old Flowery Branch Road, Gainesville, GA - Opening Date: 08/18/2026 - Closing Date: 10/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern - Employer Address: City of Gainesville, GA, P.O. Box 2496, Gainesville, Georgia, 30503