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Water Plant Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Vst

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Kincaid, IL

$41.33/hr

... power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance ... Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water ...

TXU Energy

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Kincaid, IL

$41.33/hr

... power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance ... Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water ...

Luminant

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Kincaid, IL · On-site

$41.33/hr

... power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance ... Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water ...

Vistra Energy

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Kincaid, IL

$41.33/hr

... power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance ... Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water ...

Vistra Corp.

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Kincaid, IL · On-site

$41.33/hr

... power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance ... Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water ...

All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

Water Plant Operator information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$29.2K

$58.4K

$97.6K

How much do water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator in Springfield, IL is $58,361.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $66,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, safety regulations, and relevant environmental standards, often backed by a high school diploma and state-specific operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing instruments, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for monitoring systems and responding to issues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of clean water to the community.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Plant Operators in maintaining regulatory compliance?

Water Plant Operators often face challenges in keeping up with evolving environmental regulations and ensuring all treatment processes consistently meet strict water quality standards. This involves regular monitoring, accurate record-keeping, and prompt adjustments to chemical dosages or equipment settings. Operators must also be prepared to troubleshoot unexpected equipment malfunctions or respond to weather-related changes that affect water quality. Staying current with training and technological advancements is essential to successfully manage these compliance responsibilities.

What is the difference between Water Plant Operator vs Water Treatment Technician?

AspectWater Plant OperatorWater Treatment Technician
CertificationsWater operator license, state certificationWater treatment certification, state license
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systemsWater treatment facilities, field sites
Job FocusOperating and maintaining water treatment equipmentMonitoring, testing, and troubleshooting treatment processes

Both roles involve working in water treatment facilities and require similar certifications. Water Plant Operators typically oversee the entire treatment process and plant operations, while Water Treatment Technicians focus more on testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting equipment. Both positions are essential for ensuring safe, clean water and often share similar work environments and industry usage.

What Does a Water Plant Operator Do?

The job duties of a water plant operator include working to operate and maintain a water plant. Your responsibilities in this job revolve around monitoring pumping equipment and ensuring proper water treatment. You may need to repair or facilitate the repair of equipment to keep water supply flowing. You usually collect sample data and test the water to ensure quality and safety. You are often responsible for ensuring the proper flow of water through filtering equipment, and you may clean filters and fill treatment chemicals as needed. Most plant operators need to keep a log of their activities on a daily basis.

What are Water Plant Operators?

Water Plant Operators are professionals responsible for running and maintaining water treatment plants. They manage the equipment and processes that treat and distribute water for public consumption or industrial use. Their duties include monitoring water quality, conducting tests, adjusting chemical levels, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Water Plant Operators play a critical role in providing safe, clean water to communities.
More about Water Plant Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, IL? For Water Plant Operator jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Water Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Water Plant Operator job openings:
Water Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,361 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Auxiliary Operator - Kincaid

Vst

Kincaid, IL

$41.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

The Auxiliary Operator assists with the safe and efficient operation of the station's generating units at a fossil fuel power plant. This is an entry level developmental position which receives technical guidance, training and assignments from higher level auxiliary operators and supervisors. This role will pay $41.33 per hour. This role is also eligible for Medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and their eligible dependents.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities:

  • Assists with the operation of boiler auxiliary equipment, e.g. slag handling systems, recycle water handling systems, gas recirculating fans, fire protection systems and building heating & cooling systems.

  • Assists higher level Auxiliary Operators with more complex systems and activities.

  • Performs electrical switching up to 4,000 volts.

  • Performs housekeeping, lubrication and light maintenance support.

  • Functions as a member of the station fire brigade wearing all appropriate fire fighter gear including a self-contained breathing apparatus.

  • Assists other classifications and departments with any required work.

  • Perform operational activities required to support the start-up, shutdown, and normal operation of plant equipment and systems

  • Successfully complete all required safety and environmental training.

  • Operate station vehicles such as forklifts and trucks.

  • Respond to abnormal operating situations in a safe and environmentally conscious manner.

  • Works a 12 hour rotating shift schedule.

  • Personal protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g. hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, chemical suits, high voltage protective equipment, firefighter gear, etc.)

  • Incumbent must maintain the physical ability to function as a member of the fire brigade.

  • Must be able to perform additional duties as assigned by plant management.

Education, Experience & Skills Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Prior operations or maintenance experience preferred

  • Knowledge of power plant fundamentals in chemistry, physics, electricity and mathematics preferred.

  • Must be able to work a 12-hour rotating shift

  • Work environment requires the ability to don a respirator for some duties.

  • Performs repetitive and non-repetitive duties requiring lifting, push/pull, stretching, bending and twisting. Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling requires a minimum ability of 50 pounds. May work in temperatures below freezing in winter months and above 110 degrees in summer months in parts of the plant. may work at heights off of a platform or scaffold and may work in a pit or other confined spaces.

  • All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this position. All communication concerning the testing is sent to the candidate's email address provided during the application process.

**Grade/level of position will be dependent on experience/skills

  • Must be able to frequently climb stairs; climb ladders to and work from elevated platforms and walkways at elevations of 75 feet or more.

  • The job also involves carrying, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds.

  • Position requires working on feet for extended working hours and varied shifts with weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules.

Job Family

Plant Operations

Company

Luminant Power LLC

Locations

Kincaid, IllinoisIllinois
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.

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