Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

THE CITY OF JACKSON IS CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING FULL-
TIME EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: Water Treatment Plant Operator II – Internal & External

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Jackson is committed to becoming a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization. We are dedicated to creating an environment that fully embraces all our differences and shared experiences.

General Summary: During an assigned shift, under the supervision of a higher classified employee, observes and adjusts gauges, filters, valves, chemical feeders and other water plant equipment. Takes chemical and mechanical readings and performs physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis of water supply and records findings. Rotating schedule days and shifts.

Typical Duties:
1. Makes observations and records information from gauges, charts and meters on a regular basis. Makes adjustments in pumping, treatment and other equipment to ensure a continuous supply of potable water. This occasionally involves mechanical adjustment using fly wheels and pulling chains
2. Collects water samples periodically at the plant, performing various required chemical analysis tests.
3. Conducts various water chemistry tests on raw water coming into the treatment plant and finished water entering the distribution system.
4. Conducts bacteriological work such as inoculating culture tubes and plates with water sampled from various areas in the treatment process to use as an indicator of the efficiency of disinfection as well as indicating safety of its consumption. Cleans and sterilizes glassware used in the laboratory.
5. Fills chemical feeding machines as needed with materials such as caustic soda, phosphate and fluoride. Unloads large chlorine tanks and other chemicals and materials. Replaces chlorine tanks when empty.
6. Calculates the rates at which chemicals are fed into system, adjusting dosages as necessary to correct levels.
7. Obtains periodic readings from charts, maintaining daily logs for the preparation of state reports.
8. Performs general plant inspections, changing charts, washing filters and noting any other maintenance or repairs needed.
9. Computes and enters in operating records such data as parts per million of chemicals fed into the water supply, amount of water pumped per day and any unusual occurrence that affects plant operations.
10. May perform general maintenance of plant facilities, as necessary.
11. Starts up and operates diesel generator and accessories.
12. Wears appropriate personal protective equipment, such as a self-contained breathing apparatus, as appropriate.
13. Reports on a timecard the jobs worked on, and the equipment and material used.
14. May perform the work of lower classified employee as assigned.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. Such statements are descriptive and explanatory but not restrictive. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified. The listing particular of examples of duties does not preclude the assignment of other tasks of related kind or character or of lesser skills.

Eligibility Requirements: High school education or GED. Must obtain, within two years from date of appointment, an F-4 Operators license as required by State of Michigan. Must be able to lift, push or pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

In addition to the above requirements, all City positions require: the ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language as necessary for their position; the ability to follow written and oral instructions and the ability to get along with other employees and members of the public. City employees are also expected to possess and maintain a record of orderly law-abiding citizenship, sobriety, integrity and loyalty as it pertains to and reflects upon their employment with the City; and must be physically and mentally able to perform the dues of their position without excessive absences.

Physical Demands: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, walk, use arms, hands and fingers, talk, hear and see. The employee will frequently be required to use hand strength to grasp tools and turn large valves. The employee will frequently climb steps and occasionally climb ladders. The employee is frequently required to reach, pull and twist with hands and arms; the employee will operate vibrating machinery, use a shovel and hand tools, move and operate portable pumps, air hammers, power saws, etc. The employee will occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds of material and assist co-workers to lift and/or move heavier objects and must be able to apply torque strength of up to 75 pounds. The employee is occasionally required to work in a business office setting, during which the employee will use limited mobility and manual dexterity to type and enter data; ability to effectively utilize both oral and written communications. The employee works both indoors and outdoors and occasionally works near moving mechanical equipment. The employee frequently works with hazardous chemicals and irritants, using appropriate personal protective equipment. The noise level is usually moderate.

It is the policy of the city to promote and encourage the recruitment, hiring, training and advancement of all persons and not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of religion, race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, marital status, source or level of income, height, weight, religious or political opinion, union affiliation, and physical or mental handicap unrelated to the individual's ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position.

Grade/Salary: 308/$54,798.00

Benefit Package, including:
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance Deferred compensation plan (457)
• Healthcare savings plan.

Date Posted: August 19, 2026
Application Deadline: September 18, 2026

To Apply:
• Visit the City of Jackson website at www.cityofjackson.org and view the Personnel and Labor Relations Department page.
• Click on the job title you wish to apply for under job opportunities and submit your information to include a resume. You will receive an email once you apply including the next steps which will include completing a City of Jackson application.