CITY OF EMERSON, GEORGIA
Job Announcement – Utility Plant Operator (Non-Certified)
Position Title: Utility Plant Operator (Non-Certified)
Department: Water Department
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Starting Pay: $20.00 – $22.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
Job Summary
The City of Emerson is seeking a qualified and motivated individual to serve as a Utility Plant Operator (Non-Certified). This full-time position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City’s water and wastewater treatment plants, booster pump stations, and lift stations. The ideal candidate will possess technical aptitude, mechanical skills, and the ability to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing water and wastewater operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Operate, monitor, and maintain the City’s water and wastewater treatment plants.
Operate and maintain booster pump stations and wastewater lift stations.
Inspect, repair, and service components including pumps, motors, blowers, valves, and chemical feed systems.
Perform daily plant rounds, readings, and sampling to ensure compliance with NPDES and EPD requirements.
Collect and perform laboratory testing on water and wastewater samples to support process control decisions.
Adjust chemical dosages and process parameters to maintain treatment efficiency and permit compliance.
Monitor SCADA system for alarms, system pressures, and tank levels; respond to operational changes.
Maintain accurate operational logs, maintenance records, and regulatory reports.
Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on plant equipment and mechanical systems.
Assist with installation and maintenance of sensors, meters, and flow monitoring equipment.
Perform housekeeping and grounds maintenance duties to maintain a clean and safe facility.
Respond to after-hours emergencies, alarms, and operational issues as assigned through the on-call rotation.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required.
Three (3) years of experience in public works, water, or wastewater operations preferred.
Ability to obtain a Class 3 Water Operator and Class 3 Wastewater Operator License within 24 months of hire.
Valid Georgia driver’s license required.
Ability to obtain within 24 months of hire: Class F CDL, Confined Space Certification, First Aid/CPR, Certified Flagger’s Card, and Georgia NPDES Level 1B Certification.
Knowledge of water and wastewater treatment processes, laboratory procedures, and maintenance practices.
Proficiency with computers and standard software such as Microsoft Office.
Ability to work independently and respond effectively to emergencies and system alarms.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
This position involves both indoor and outdoor work in all weather conditions. The employee must be able to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds. The role includes exposure to loud noises, moving machinery, chemicals, and unpleasant odors. The employee must be able to respond to emergency situations and participate in the City’s on-call rotation schedule.
Benefits
Paid Medical, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Disability Insurance, and $15,000 Life Insurance for the employee
Defined Retirement Plan – fully vested after 5 years
Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan (457B)
Voluntary Life Insurance and AFLAC policies
Generous Personal Time Off (PTO) policy
14 Paid Holidays per year
How to Apply
Applications are available online at www.cityofemerson.org/jobs or can be picked up in person at:
City of Emerson – City Hall
700 Highway 293
Emerson, GA 30137
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Completed applications may be emailed to cityhall@cityofemerson.org or delivered in person to City Hall.
Position will remain open until filled.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Emerson provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Do you have what it takes?