Water Operator I

Job Description

 

Job Title:                               Water Operator (I, II, III) 

Department:                         Asset Management, Operations

Reports To:                           Field Supervisor/Chief Plant Operator

Classification:                      Non-Exempt 

Normal Business Hrs:         Varies; 9/80 alternative workweek/ M-F 7:00am-4:30pm, with every other Friday off

Date Prepared:                     September 2025 

Assigned Facility:                Huntington Park

 

Job Overview:

Reporting directly to the Field Supervisor, the Operator will perform a full range of duties associated with analyzing and monitoring all advanced water treatment and distribution systems and equipment. The operator has responsibility for assisting in the successful operation and maintenance of the assigned facility(s) and assisting as necessary in the operation and maintenance of other PERC Water projects as needed.  

Duties and Responsibilities:        

Operator I – Entry-level role, focused on routine operational tasks under supervision. Responsibilities include basic sampling, equipment checks, and data entry. Requires foundational knowledge of water operations and a minimum Grade I certification.

Operator II – Mid-level role with increased independence. Responsibilities expand to process adjustments, troubleshooting, and assisting with maintenance. Expected to demonstrate stronger technical skills, operational judgment, and leadership in daily tasks. Requires Grade II certification and at least 2–3 years of relevant experience.

Operator III – Senior-level role with advanced responsibilities, including system optimization, regulatory reporting, mentoring junior staff, and leading shift operations. Expect to have comprehensive technical expertise, decision-making ability, and leadership skills. Requires Grade III certification (or higher depending on facility rating) and significant hands-on experience.

• Perform activities under the direction of the Field Supervisor, O&M Manager, CPO pertaining to the operation of the facility. 
• Performs a variety of assignments related to the operation and maintenance of an advanced water treatment and distribution facility
• Knowledge and understanding of the regulatory permit requirements, sampling and monitoring requirements and regulatory reporting requirements  
• Participate in daily operational activities including, but not limited to the following: 

•        Develop operational SOPs  

•        Monitoring plant equipment and processes 

•        Collecting and processing water quality samples 

•        Assessing plant chemical inventory 

•        Cleaning, observing, and optimizing membrane systems 

•        Managing electronic operations and management tools (Data Management, CMMS, etc.) 

• Participate in facility housekeeping activities, such as sweeping, cleaning, sanding, painting and other tasks as assigned. 
• Coordinate and monitor the maintenance and repair of process equipment as assigned  
• Collect water quality samples, including preparation of sample bottles, labeling and utilization of appropriate sampling methods as specified in the approved standard operating procedures (SOPs). 
• Oversee the operation of motorized vehicles, forklifts and other mobile equipment. 
• Participate in facility safety training and follow all specified safety procedures in accordance with PERC Water Corp. safety program. 
• Troubleshooting and evaluating parts and systems 
• During a plant emergency, may be called in to assist with plant operations and maintenance activities. 
• Communicate any problems/issues to supervisor 
• All other tasks as assigned by Lead Operator and Project Manager/CPO 
• Uphold acceptable attendance per PERC standards 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

•        Must possess a high degree of self-motivation and exhibit strong leadership skills.   

•        Must have good mechanical aptitude, and manual dexterity.   

•        Ability to use power and hand tools in wet conditions. 

•        Basic understanding of water quality sampling and laboratory analysis.     

•        Ability to work in close proximity and in concert with others.   

•        Able to establish and sustain effective working relationships with others. 

•        Must possess good verbal, written and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with coworkers, supervisors, and the public.

•         Ability to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction 

•        General computer knowledge; good working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel. 

•        Physical capability

•        Body Positions: Standing, sitting for extended periods of time, walking. 

•        Body Movements: Use of hands, eyes, arms and voice. Must be able to lift, push and pull up to 40 pounds on a regular basis. Must be able to climb up and down stairs and ladders. 

•        Must be able to climb on, or into facility equipment and systems (Confined Space Training required).  

•        Must be able to work weekends, nights or holidays as needed. Willingness to travel a plus.  

•        On call availability as scheduled 

•        Mental capability

•        Language ability includes reading, writing, spelling, and the ability to communicate clearly on business topics in English

 

Education, Professional Credentials and Experience Required:

•        Grade D1 though D3 or T1 through T3 Water Operator Certification issued by the CA State Water Resources Control Board required

•        1-3 years prior water treatment/distribution experience or a background in biological or chemical sciences preferred 

•        Valid CA driver’s license required

•        High School Diploma, or GED equivalent and college level course work in Water, Wastewater, Chemistry, and Biology. BA degree is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience to meet the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. 

 

Work Conditions:

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor settings, including treatment plant facilities, control room, pump stations, distribution sites, and field locations. Exposure to varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, humidity) is expected