Chief Treatment Plant Operator

Overview

JOB TITLE: CHIEF TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULL-TIME/NON-EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION: SUPERVISORY AND PROFESSIONAL UNION

Responsible for proper operation & maintenance of all drinking water treatment plants facilities, flow control stations & chlorination stations, including but not limited to reservoirs and watersheds as necessary for purification of drinking water within the Commonwealth following DEP regulation. Supervises and works with all treatment operation related personnel. Operates, maintains, and repairs water treatment machinery and equipment.

• Supervises & schedules plant employees work, works with water treatment operators and others less skilled in operating water treatment plant processes and equipment, unskilled personnel in the maintenance of water treatment grounds, reservoirs, and watershed.
• Enforces safety regulations, maintains discipline, orders supplies & equipment, operates & adjusts treatment related machinery & equipment, maintains & repairs plant equipment. Reviews work of personnel assigned during & upon completion of work assigned to ensure compliance with instruction and conformance with DEP and professional practice.
• Makes routine laboratory test at various stages of treatment. Monitors the performance of water treatment plants but not limited to water clarification & filtration process units, chlorination station and flow control station through computer readings, and directs changes in treatment chemicals and materials as required to maintain performance within DEP established limits.
• Takes and records readings of instruments, makes adjustments in equipment as indicated, and maintains operating logs using the City issued computers, tabulates reports for the DEP including but not limited to DEP monthly reports calendar year ending statically reports tier II reports assists the superintendent with preliminary treatment plant budget.
• Responsible for maintaining the treatment plant & appurtenant in a clean orderly condition.

• Valid Grade III Massachusetts Drinking Water Supply Operators Certification.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with workload assignment techniques & procedures and personnel supervision.
• Knowledge and familiarity with water treatment processes including filtration, chlorination, chemical addition, and equipment used.
• Knowledge and familiarity with laboratory equipment and tests used for basic water chemical analysis.
• Knowledge and familiarity with construction and operating characteristics of valves, gates, pumps, motors, and other equipment as used in water treatment plants and processes.
• Ability to operate valves, gates and other equipment as required in the treatment plant operation.
• Valid Vehicle Operator’s License.

The incumbent works in various dynamic municipal buildings and locations. While performing the duties of the Chief Treatment Plant Operator, the incumbent is required to: interact and communicate frequently with the public, government officials, other staff members and boards, and/or third parties transacting business with the City. Frequent periods of outside work may be entailed, subject to all weather conditions and extremes.

Incumbent may be required to work at any time during the 24-hour day to respond to weather-related or emergency needs.

Physical ability and agility sufficient to operate valves, gates and other equipment as required in treatment facility or pumping operation and control involving the entry into manholes and vaults, climbing ladders, cross-country travel etc. Lift up to 50 lbs.

Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
40 Hours per week

Starting rate $27.84 - $29.53 per hour
Annual increases up to $40.88 per hour

Friday, February 6, 2026 @ 4:00 PM

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships.…