-
Careers
Look for jobs and resources in Decatur & Macon County here.
-
Benefits
Find out the benefits of working here (besides a paycheck!).
-
Industries
Up-to-date information on the industries located here.
-
Startup
Ready to start your own business? Get started today.
Water Plant Operator I
City of Decatur, IL
Decatur, IL, USA
USD 27.94-29.3 / hour
Posted on May 17, 2026
Job Summary
-
Starting Pay: $27.94/hour
Increases to: $29.30/hour after six monthsDive into a Rewarding Career as a Water Plant Operator I
Are you ready to play a vital role in providing clean, safe water to over 70,000 residents? The City of Decatur's Water Production Division is seeking a dedicated Water Plant Operator I to join our team at the South Water Treatment Plant. With a state-of-the-art treatment plant, we focus on innovation, efficiency, and compliance with the latest health and safety standards. This is your opportunity to be a part of this essential service!
Enjoy a generous package of perks including:
• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), paid vacation and sick leave, excellent health insurance, and a strong retirement pension plan
• Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups, chronic care, bloodwork, immunizations, and many free prescriptions for employees and their dependents.This position is at the South Water Treatment Plant, and candidates MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK ANY SHIFT, including weekends and holidays.
Key Responsibilities
-
- Adjust water chemical levels and regulate water flow rates.
- Perform titration tests to determine water softness, alkalinity, and acidity.
- Calibrate feeders to ensure proper chemical dosage and maintain water quality.
- Assist in unloading chemicals, changing chlorine tanks, and washing filters.
- Inspect pumping stations and water treatment facilities to ensure smooth operation.
- Mix chemicals for water compounds and monitor grease and oil levels in service pumps.
- Perform routine maintenance on buildings, equipment, and sludge removal systems.
- Operate valves to remove sludge and ensure tanks are clean and functioning properly.
- Clean and paint facilities and equipment as needed.
- Maintain operational records and logs with accuracy.
- Perform other related tasks and duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Preferred Skills
-
- Valid Illinois driver's license
- Understanding of water pumping processes and safety protocols in water treatment operations.
- Basic computer skills for monitoring and data entry.
- Ability to read meters, gauges, and make quick decisions in emergencies.
- Capable of following both detailed and general instructions.
- Proficient in maintaining operating records and performing basic mechanical repairs on equipment.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 70 lbs. and push/pull up to 100 lbs.
- Must possess a grip strength of 50 lbs.
- Ability to climb steps while carrying 45 pounds.
- Comfortable climbing stairs, ladders, and working at heights.
- Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, walk, and stand for extended periods.
- Must pass a color blindness test.
Education & Experience:- High school diploma or equivalent is required.
- One year of experience in water treatment or related labor work is preferred.
Certifications:- Must obtain an IEPA Class "C" Water Treatment Certificate within three years of hire.
- Must maintain respirator certification throughout employment.
Sponsorship for Employment
The City of Decatur does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B). To be considered for regular employment with City of Decatur, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a continuous basis. More Details
-
Examination Process
The examination process will consist of the components listed below. The combination of the written examination and oral interview will constitute 100% of the final examination score.- Written Examination Applicants will be required to take a written examination tailored to this position. Applicants are required to score at least 70.00%.
- Oral Interview Applicants passing the written test must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
- Veteran Points Applicants passing the written test and oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
- Seniority Points Applicable persons passing the written test and oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points for each full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.
The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace. This includes marijuana. Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, and background check post offer.
Residency
The Water Plant Operator I position is covered under the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) collective bargaining agreement. AFSCME employees shall reside within 50 miles of the corporate limits of City of Decatur. An appointee may reside outside said limits but must comply no later than 90 days after the completion of the probationary period.
About Decatur:- Central Illinois: Discover affordable living with easy access to Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
- Land of Lincoln: Explore Abe's legacy with visits to the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln’s Tomb, and the family’s first Illinois home.
- Shopping and Dining: Browse locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops and savor diverse delights at unique restaurants and quaint eateries.
- Entertainment Abounds: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performing arts at Millikin University, and shows in the historic Lincoln Theatre downtown.
- Outdoor Recreation: Revel in Lake Decatur with boating and kayaking or explore the City’s 2,000 acres of parkland for golfing, walking, biking, dog exercising, or playing disc golf.
- Enriched by Art: Appreciate murals gracing city walls and sculptures stretching from the Scovill Zoo to the Children's Museum.
- Family Fun: Cool off at Splash Cove waterpark or head to Overlook Adventure Park for mini golf or the ropes course.
To Apply:Join our team and help keep Decatur's water flowing! Apply by May 31, 2026, to be part of our mission to provide essential services to our community while staying at the forefront of water treatment technology. Submit your application at the link below with all requested relevant information. Incomplete applications will be rejected.