Description

POSITION:                        Lead Water Operator

DATE:                                October 20, 2025

DEPARTMENT:                  Public Services

REPORTS TO:                    Water/Sewer Supervisor    

PAY RANGE:                      $70,724 - $103,398, Starting Rate is Dependent Upon Qualifications

FLSA STATUS:                   Non-Exempt

Position Purpose:  

Performs skilled work in the operation, maintenance and repair of Village water systems.

Supervision Exercised:  

None.  May serve as lead worker over crew workers assigned to water operations.

Job Duties:

Essential Functions:

Performs skilled tasks involved in the operation, maintenance and repair of the water pumping and distribution system including but not limited to: pump stations, water mains, storage facilities, water meters and associated field services to provide quality potable water.
 

Inspects and maintains water meters and valves.  Performs general maintenance and repair work on motors, generators, pumps and other mechanical and electrical equipment.
 

Gathers and tests water samples for plant efficiency reports as required.
 

Records and maintains statistical data concerning plant operations.  Charts lab test results for trend analysis and maintains accurate records of analyses and test results.  Evaluates data and writes reports as required.
 

Assists with the preparation of required federal, state and local reports.  Assists with compliance with all federal state and local water regulations and reporting requirements.
 

Trains crew workers assigned to water operations.
 

Operates all tools and equipment needed to perform job duties while adhering to all safety rules and practices.  Reports all accidents and injuries according to Village Safety policy and procedure.
 

Assists with developing water operation maintenance policies, methods and standard operating procedures.  
 

Attends public meetings as required. May make presentations on water/sewer related issues.
 

Works with all Village departments and other organizations on water operation related issues.
 

Coordinates and supervises vendors that provide water operation maintenance services.
 

Responds to inquiries and complaints, responds to emergencies and resolves service requests.
 

Marginal Functions:

Assists with snow/ice removal operations from streets, sidewalks and other Village property.
 

Assists with special event operations.
 

Performs semi-skilled and unskilled labor tasks as required.
 

Perform other duties as assigned.
 

Environmental Factors:

The work environment includes the water plant and the outdoors.  The noise level is occasionally loud.  The incumbent is subject to inclement weather conditions, working near moving mechanical parts, high levels of noise for an extended period of time and exposure to chemicals, fumes or disagreeable odors.

Requirements

Physical Requirements:

Occasionally required to sit; use hands to finger, handle or feels; reach with hands and arms and talk and hear.  Frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.  May lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth and the ability to adjust focus.  Occasionally works at heights/depths of 12-15 feet above/below ground.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge in water plant maintenance procedures, problem diagnosis and repair.
 

Knowledge of the laboratory procedures and practices.
 

Knowledge in state and federal regulations for shoring and trenching.
 

Knowledge of federal, state and local regulations for water/sewer operations including the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act. 
 

Ability to maintain accurate records of water/sewer operations.
 

Ability to interpret and work from service manuals, specifications and drawings.
 

Ability to collect statistical data and prepare written reports.  Must be able to communicate in writing.
 

Frequent contact with other Village staff, outside contractors and residents; must be able to communicate verbally, make presentations and demonstrate good customer relations.
 

Ability to learn, understand and adhere to all applicable safety precautions and procedures.
 

Ability to train crew workers in water/sewer operations.
 

Skill in the use and care of tools employed in water plant repair and maintenance.
 

Position Requirements:

Two to three years water operator work experience required.  Illinois Class C Water Operators license required. Village will consider applicants who are currently certified as IEPA Operator in Training.  College education preferred.
 

Illinois Class B CDL.
 

Must be available for emergency call-ins and participate in scheduled and unscheduled overtime.
 

Moderate computer skills required.