Water Plant Operator Trainee (Reverse Osmosis)

About the role

The City of West Melbourne is hiring a Water Plant Operator Trainee for its Public Works department. Working under the direct supervision of the Chief Operator and/or Water Plant Director, the trainee helps operate and maintain the city's Reverse Osmosis (RO) water treatment plant so that safe, reliable drinking water is produced in line with federal and state regulations. The position is full-time, non-exempt, pays $37,525 to $58,162 annually and involves structured on-the-job training to learn low-pressure membrane systems, chemical feed systems and plant infrastructure. Evening, weekend, holiday, shift work and on-call rotation may be required as training progresses.

Key responsibilities

• Assist licensed operators in monitoring plant operations via SCADA systems and field inspections.
• Collect water samples and help with routine lab testing such as chlorine residual, pH, turbidity and conductivity.
• Learn to operate RO membrane systems, high-service pumps, chemical feed systems and related equipment.
• Monitor storage tank levels, system pressures and production flows, and keep operational logs.
• Perform routine plant rounds, assist with preventative maintenance (lubrication, cleaning, basic inspection) and keep facilities clean and organized.
• Observe camera systems and access controls, take part in safety training and comply with OSHA standards including lockout/tagout and chemical handling.
• Study for the FDEP Water Treatment Operator license and study for the Class C exam within 18 months of hire.
• Respond to emergencies only under the direction of a licensed operator or supervisor.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in water treatment, environmental science, mechanical systems or a related field is preferred but not required.
• Prior experience in water utilities, industrial operations, construction trades or mechanical maintenance is desirable.
• Valid Florida Class E driver's license with an acceptable driving record, and a Class C water treatment operator license obtained within 18 months of hire.
• Ability to work in a regulated environment, follow safety protocols and work as part of a team.

Required skills

• Basic knowledge of mechanical systems, pumps and industrial equipment.
• Ability to read gauges, meters and instrumentation accurately.
• Ability to use computers and standard office software.

What we offer

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability and life insurance, plus an employee assistance program.
• Dependent coverage and optional supplemental insurance, with the city sharing the cost of dependents.
• Flexible spending account, 10 paid holidays, 96 hours of accrued sick leave and 80 hours of vacation leave.
• Tuition reimbursement, awards program, safety clothing and boots, and retirement options through the Florida Retirement System and a 457 deferred compensation plan.