Helper/Relief Water Treatment Operator

Job Description

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Job Title: Helper/Relief Water Treatment Operator

Posting Start Date: 6/3/26

Job Description:

Primary Role

The Helper / Relief Operator is a dual-function position that supports both the Repair & Maintenance and Operations teams across New Castle operations. This role performs technical maintenance and repair of water distribution/processing equipment, and provides relief coverage for water treatment facilities, tank sites, and booster stations. On an annual average, work is approximately 90% maintenance and 10% operations, with full relief responsibility for shift coverage as needed.

You will ensure safe, reliable service by maintaining pumps, chemical feed systems, controls, valves, hydrants, meters, mains, manholes and lift stations, while also assisting licensed operators with routine plant operations.

• #LI-Onsite
• #LI-MR23

Key Accountabilities

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on water distribution/plant process and systems using a company vehicle.
• Repair and maintain process equipment including pumps, blowers, motors, electrical controls, emergency signaling, chemical feed systems and related components.
• Clean and maintain wet wells, tanks, booster stations, grounds and facilities.
• Operate heavy equipment as assigned, including small dump truck and forklift
• Make routine equipment adjustments, identify serious problems and report to supervision.
• Assist operators with operational tasks at water treatment plants.
• Prepare orders for materials, supplies, spare parts and equipment.
• Maintain accurate computerized and manual records, complete daily work orders and operational reports.
• Follow all American Water Environmental, Health and Safety policies and wear required PPE at all times.
• Drive company vehicle during scheduled hours and maintain clean driving record.
• Perform inside and outside sample collection
• Perform any other duties assigned by management.

Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to safely operate hand tools, pneumatic tools, air compressors and maintenance trade equipment.
• Working knowledge of light-duty electrical systems (240V single and three phase), instrumentation calibration, hydraulics, pneumatics and telemetry.
• Understanding of mechanical and electrical operation, maintenance and repair of water equipment.
• Familiarity with the health and safety regulations.
• Ability to operate basic water distribution systems independently.
• Strong record-keeping, communication and teamwork skills.
• Physical ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, and while wearing respiratory protection.

Experience/Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 0 to 2 years' experience in water distribution, wastewater collection, pump stations or lift stations preferred.
• Completion of trade-specific courses in electrical, mechanical, plumbing or water treatment is preferred.

Schedule

• Primary maintenance schedule: Friday through Tuesday, 7:00am to 3:30pm.
• Relief coverage: rotating 12-hour shifts, 7:00am to 7:00pm or 7:00pm to 7:00am
• Must be available for overtime, weekends, holidays, on-call assignments and emergency call-outs.

Certifications and Licenses

• Valid state driver's license required. Must successfully pass motor vehicle background check.
• Pennsylvania state Water and/or Wastewater Operator certification preferred, or ability to obtain required licenses/subclasses within 3 years

Work Environment

• Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain and snow.
• Exposure to fumes, dust, odors, high noise, and potentially hazardous contaminants.
• Required to wear approved respirator and other PPE as conditions dictate.

Competencies

Champions safety

Collaborates

Cultivates innovation

Customer obsessed

Drives Results

Nimble learning

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