Water Plant Operator Trainee, or I, or II, or III

About Us

Tallahassee, a diverse community of nearly 200,000 residents, is the state capital and home to Florida A&M University, Florida State University, and Tallahassee State College. It is known for its national forest, freshwater lakes, and abundant parks and recreational activities. Located in the north-central portion of the state of Florida.

The City, as an organization, has a devoted workforce of approximately 4,000 people who come together to ensure the needs of the community are met through municipal services. These services include Police, Fire, Utilities (electric, gas, water, wastewater, stormwater), Parks and Recreation, Aviation-Tallahassee International Airport, and general municipal services. The City's mission is to be the national leader in the delivery of public service.

The City of Tallahassee's workforce is our communitys lifeblood, we offer diverse career opportunities, a positive work-life balance, competitive compensation, exceptional wellness programs, and comprehensive benefits, all of which position us to be the premier employer of choice for this area.

Apply On Or Before

Apply on or before 11pm on Friday June 5th, 2026

Department Name

Underground Utilities & Public Infrastructure

Job Specifications

The City of Tallahassee's Water Plant Operators play a vital role in delivering safe, reliable drinking water to our community every day. Whether you're just starting your career or bring years of operational experience, multiple levels of Water Plant Operator positions are available to match your skills and help you grow. If youre mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and ready to serve your community, we encourage you to apply!

What you'll do:

Water Plant Operator Trainee

• Work under the supervision of a licensed Water Treatment Plant Operator.
• Monitor wells daily to maintain proper water pressure and tank levels.
• Collect water quality samples and perform routine field testing.
• Participate in computer-based training, data entry, and operate City vehicles.
• Deliver, monitor, and maintain water treatment chemicals following safety procedures.
• Perform light mechanical maintenance and minor electrical repairs at wells and elevated tanks..

Water Plant Operator I, II, III (Progressive Levels)

• Monitor wells, treatment equipment, chemical dosing, and system operations.
• Operate and monitor SCADA systems, analyzers, sensors, and control systems.
• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, controls, and related equipment.
• Coordinate with the Utility Control Center to maintain continuous operations.
• Collect water samples and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Maintain operational records and documentation.
• Participate in emergency operations and response.
• Higher-level Operators (III) may supervise other operators, assist with customer concerns, and participate in the Environmental Management System (EMS).
• Duties increase in complexity and technical skill, with senior levels providing oversight and guidance to junior staff. Please see job descriptions for more information.

Preferred Qualifications (All Levels)

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn complex plant systems.
• Strong math, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to read meters, charts, and perform routine chemical analyses.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and public service skills.

For the complete job specification, listing essential duties and desirable qualifications, go to http://www.talgov.com/employment/hr-job-descriptions.aspx

Minimum Training & Experience

General Requirements (All Levels)

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Class E State driver's license.

Water Plant Operator Trainee

• Ability to obtain a State of Florida Class "C" Water Treatment Plant Operator license within three (3) years of employment.

Water Plant Operator I

• One year of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system water treatment plant.
• Possess and maintain a Class "C" Water Treatment Plant Operator license as outlined in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62.602-300.
• Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Water Treatment Plant Operator license within three (3) years of hire.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at time of appointment.

Water Plant Operator II

• One year of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system water treatment plant.
• Possess and maintain a Class "B" Water Treatment Plant Operator license as outlined in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62.602-300.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at time of appointment.

Water Plant Operator III

• Five years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system water treatment plant.
• Possess and maintain a Class "A" Water Treatment Plant Operator license as outlined in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62.602-300.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at time of appointment.

Salary Range

$13.9273 to 58.7999/hourly.

Benefits Information

For details on benefits available to eligible City employees, visit the City's interactive benefits tool ALEX or review the City's Benefits Summary.

How To Apply

Visit Talgov.com/Employment click on the 'Apply Today' button, then navigate to 'My Job Applications' icon, and create an account. Only online applications will be accepted for this vacancy. Remember, you must complete all sections of the application, including the education and work history section, even if this information is included on your resume.

If you have any questions regarding this position or the application process, please contact the City's Human Resources and Workforce Development Department at 850-891-8214.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The City of Tallahassee is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to promoting equity and celebrating diversity. The City of Tallahassee invites applications without regard to an individual's race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Veterans' Preference:

Certain service members and veterans, and the spouses of the service members and veterans, will receive preference and priority, and certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements. For information on who may be eligible for Veterans Preference, go to http://floridavets.org/benefits-services/veterans-preference/, or call Human Resources & Workforce Development at (850) 891-8214.To claim Veterans Preference, applicants must upload a DD-214 (and other documentation, as applicable) with their online application prior to the closing date of the job opening.

Accommodation for Persons with a Disability:

If you require an accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the City's ADA Coordinator, in the Office of Diversity & Inclusion, at 850-891-8950 or at TLHADA@talgov.com Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or TDD 711, at least 48 hours, (excluding weekends and holidays), prior to the application deadline.