Water Plant Operator at Lake Forest – Lake Forest, Illinois

The City of Lake Forest is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Water Plant Operator to join our team at the Lake Forest Water Treatment Plant. Our operators play a critical role in ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water to the community by operating, monitoring, and maintaining state-of-the-art membrane filtration and distribution systems. As well as monitor and maintain several sanitary and storm lift stations.

Learn more about the Water Plant and the current Lead Water Plant Operator by reading "Third Generation of Tiegs to Work for City of Lake Forest Makes His Mark at Water Plant" on Lake Forest Love Blog!

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for people with a knack for fixing things – those who like to tinker, figure out how stuff works, and solve problems. No experience working at a water plant? No problem – we can build upon your existing experience. If you’ve got technical or mechanical skills, enjoy troubleshooting, and aren’t afraid to dive into something new, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Transferable Skills

If you are mechanically inclined and have some of these skillsets, we’d love to talk to you:

• Plumbing, electrical, or HVAC experience
• Troubleshooting and reading manuals, plan sets, or diagrams
• General building maintenance and repair
• Computer systems, controls, and logic systems

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor, operate, and adjust water treatment equipment to ensure proper flow, pressure, and chemical balance.
• Perform routine water sampling and testing for chlorine, pH, fluoride, and other parameters to maintain compliance with all regulatory standards.
• Record and maintain accurate daily operating data, including meter readings, chemical usage, and laboratory results within a data collection application.
• Inspect pumps, motors, valves, filters, and other plant equipment for proper operation; perform basic maintenance or repairs as needed.
• Start up, shut down, maintain, and troubleshoot treatment systems, including pumps, filters, and lift stations.
• Handle and maintain treatment chemicals safely in accordance with all safety procedures and guidelines.
• Respond to system alarms and emergencies, taking prompt corrective action to maintain uninterrupted water service.
• Communicate effectively with fellow operators and supervisors using Microsoft applications (Teams, Outlook) and through detailed shift briefings.
• Follow all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including those of the EPA, IEPA, and IDPH.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment throughout the plant and associated facilities.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional technical coursework preferred.
• IEPA Class “C” or higher Water Operator License preferred (or ability to obtain within a defined timeframe).
• Basic mechanical, electrical, and computer skills preferred.
• Attention to detail and commitment to regulatory compliance.
• Ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays, in a 24-hour operation. (Shift rotates every 3-4 months, not stuck on nights permanently)
• Valid Illinois driver’s license required.

You’ll join a team that strives for excellence in water treatment and public service, operating in a modern facility that values professionalism, safety, and innovation. Our operators take pride in delivering safe drinking water every day and supporting a vital public resource for the community.

Compensation & Benefits

• Starting Salary: $74,150 - $83,376
• Full Salary: $74,150 – $101,828
• Insurance: Medical (PPO/HMO), dental, vision
• Leave: 13 paid holidays, front-loaded vacation and sick time, parental leave
• Retirement: IMRF pension + 457(b)/Roth options
• Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, EAP, legal/life protection, PSLF eligibility

The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.