Water Treatment Plant Maintenance Technician

About the role

In this role, you will participate in the daily maintenance and operations of the Water Treatment Plant facility (wells, pumps, motors, etc.) as directed by the Project Manager. The plant, built in 1941 by the US Army in Defiance, Missouri, has been in operation for over 84 years and is designed to treat 22 million gallons a day, currently averaging about 10 million. A new capital project is underway to add a new clarifier and replace the existing three, introducing new equipment for preventive maintenance.

The plant sources water from an alluvial aquifer and nine alluvial wells, treating it through lime softening, disinfection with sodium hypochlorite, secondary disinfection with aqua ammonia, and fluoride addition for dental health. The facility has maintained 100% four-log compliance for years, ensuring high-quality drinking water.

The Defiance, MO water treatment plant staff is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant, wells, buildings, and grounds. This full-time position focuses on general maintenance of equipment, with a primary emphasis on preventive and corrective maintenance, and a secondary role assisting in plant operations as needed (e.g., covering for coworker absences). Routine weekly preventive maintenance is assigned to this position.

Responsibilities

• Monitors plant operations to ensure adherence to all State and Federal regulations.
• Collects and analyzes samples from water treatment and TSS samples.
• Responds to emergency situations as required or in accordance with the emergency operations plan.
• Maintains and keeps current State operator’s license.
• Maintains stock of chemicals used.
• Performs all work in compliance with established safety standards.
• Performs minor and major repair and maintenance to plant and equipment.
• Operates and maintains chemical feed equipment; calculates chemical feed rates.
• Maintains and monitors clear well and treatment basins levels.
• Collects water samples for lab analysis.
• Completes and updates daily log sheets and laboratory test results; enters data into Hach WIMS.
• Inspects water treatment equipment to ensure proper and safe operation.
• Receives and records chemical deliveries and monitors chemical storage areas.
• Backwashes filters and sets proper flow rate when in use.
• Responds to chemical emergencies.
• Is able to wear a respirator.

Requirements

• Missouri Water Treatment Plant Operator’s license preferred.
• A valid Missouri motor vehicle operator's license.
• Working knowledge of the principles, procedures, methods, equipment, materials, and tools employed in the operation and maintenance of a Water Treatment Plant facility.
• Thorough knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions involved in water treatment work.
• Knowledge of computer applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a background check, pre-placement physical, and drug screen before employment.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm. Currently, there is no on-call rotation, but you will be required to respond to emergencies or unpredictable situations. This position may also float as an operator when needed.

Pay

$27 - $29 an hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information, visit Benefit & Policy Information - Woodard & Curran.