Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Join the City of O'Fallon Team!
Operator (Multiple Levels) & Operator-in-Training
Water & Wastewater Treatment Plants
Hourly Rate:
• Operator in Training: $24.74
• Operator I: $25.98
• Operator II: $28.64
• Operator III: $30.07
The City of O'Fallon is seeking motivated individuals to join our Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations team. We offer multiple levels of Operator positions, including Operator-in-Training, Operator I, Operator II, and Operator III, providing clear opportunities for advancement and certification growth.
Please Note: The Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants operate 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. All employees must be available to work varying shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional emergency call-ins.
Operator-in-Training
Overview:
This entry-level role provides foundational experience in plant operations, maintenance, and laboratory procedures. It is ideal for candidates beginning a career in water or wastewater treatment.
Major Duties:
• Perform entry-level operational and maintenance tasks
• Receive training on plant processes, equipment, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Assist experienced operators and acquire skills toward independent work
• Operate and maintain pumps, motors, treatment systems, generators, and lift stations
• Monitor and control SCADA systems
• Collect, analyze, and process various samples
• Calibrate and maintain chemical feed systems and flow meters
• Prepare MoDNR monthly operating reports and internal documentation
• Engage in data collection, reporting, and archiving
• Perform housekeeping and groundskeeping duties
• Provide customer service and promote positive public relations
• Assist with emergency bypass pumping and snow removal
• Perform other related tasks as assigned
• Work a variety of shifts in a 24/7 facility
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to obtain a valid Missouri driver's license
• Must obtain a Missouri Class D Treatment Certification within one year
Operator I
Overview:
Operator I performs routine plant monitoring, process adjustments, equipment care, and grounds maintenance to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations.
Major Duties:
• Make regular rounds to inspect plant operations
• Record operational data into SCADA; maintain logbook
• Clean and maintain plant grounds and facilities
• Troubleshoot equipment and make repairs
• Perform incremental cleaning and maintenance on equipment and structures
• Respond to emergency situations
• Carry out all tasks associated with Operator-in-Training
• Operate and maintain pumps, motors, treatment systems, generators, cranes, and lift stations
• Collect and process samples
• Prepare and submit MoDNR and internal reports
• Provide customer service and support public relations
• Assist with snow removal
• Perform other related duties as assigned
• Work varying shifts in a 24/7 operation
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED
• 1-2 years of related experience or apprenticeship
• Valid Missouri driver's license
• Missouri Class D Treatment Certification
Operator II
Overview:
Operator II serves as an experienced team member capable of performing advanced operational tasks, troubleshooting equipment, and supporting less experienced staff.
Major Duties:
• Make regular plant rounds and inspect equipment
• Record and analyze data in SCADA and operational logs
• Perform advanced troubleshooting and equipment repair
• Clean and maintain plant equipment and facilities
• Adjust plant processes as needed
• Provide guidance to less experienced operators
• Operate heavy equipment, when applicable
• Collect and analyze samples
• Prepare MoDNR reports and in-house documentation
• Perform facility housekeeping and grounds work
• Assist with emergency situations and snow removal
• Work varying shifts in a 24/7 facility
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED
• 2-5 years of experience in water/wastewater operations
• Valid Missouri driver's license
• Missouri Class C or Class B Treatment Certification
• Must attempt the highest certification level when eligible
Operator III
Overview:
Operator III serves as a senior operator and often acts as a crew lead in the absence of the Plant Manager or Crew Leader. This role includes advanced operational oversight, regulatory support, and project coordination.
Major Duties:
• Assist with planning, organizing, and performing daily operational tasks
• Train new Plant Operators
• Review operational and laboratory data for regulatory compliance
• Lead the crew when supervisory staff is unavailable
• Make process modifications and monitor performance through SCADA
• Perform laboratory duties when needed
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment
• Assist with chemical ordering and invoice tracking
• Support purchasing and capital project planning
• Review drawings and provide input on construction projects
• Coordinate contractor work with the Senior Plant Engineer
• Assist with groundskeeping and snow removal
• Work varying shifts in a 24/7 facility
Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED
• 6 or more years of experience in water/wastewater operations
• Valid Missouri driver's license
• Missouri Class A Treatment Certification
• Must attempt highest-level certification when eligible
Why Work for the City of O'Fallon?
We value our employees and their wellbeing. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Employer-paid Accident and Life Insurance
• Optional HSA with employer contributions
• FSAs and optional Pet Insurance
• Wellness rewards and onsite workout facilities
• Discounted Renaud Center membership
• Employee Assistance Program and Identity Theft Protection
• 3 weeks of vacation for new hires, 11 holidays, 1 personal holiday
• Sick leave and extended illness leave
• Zen and lactation rooms in select facilities
• Participation in the Missouri LAGERS L-6 Pension Plan
• 457(b) retirement plan options
• Tuition reimbursement to support continued growth
Apply Today!
Make a difference where you live. Apply now to join a team that helps keep O'Fallon beautiful, active, and welcoming for all.
Visit www.ofallonmo.gov/hr to submit your application.
The City of O'Fallon is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.