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Sandwich

Water Superintendent

Sandwich, Chicago, Illinois, United States

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The City of Sandwich, Illinois, is seeking a licensed class B water operator to serve as Water Superintendent. As Superintendent, you will be responsible for providing safe and reliable water for the community through the proper operation and maintenance of the municipality’s water treatment and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will provide vision and direction for the operation, possess a strong understanding of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and equipment maintenance, with the ability to respond to emergencies and manage daily system operations. Key Responsibilities

Water Treatment & Distribution Operations:

Operate and maintain municipal water treatment plants and distribution systems. Monitor and adjust the flow, treatment processes, chemical dosing, and water quality to meet regulatory standards. System Monitoring & Maintenance:

Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance on water treatment equipment, pumps, valves, pipelines, and related infrastructure. Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, and control system failures. Water Sampling & Testing:

Collect water samples for required analysis (chemical, microbiological, and physical), and ensure that all testing and reporting procedures comply with Illinois EPA and local regulations. Compliance & Recordkeeping:

Ensure adherence to state and federal water quality standards, including those established by the EPA, IDPH, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). Maintain accurate records of system operations, water quality reports, maintenance logs, and compliance documents. Emergency Response & Troubleshooting:

Respond to emergency situations, including water main breaks, system contamination, and equipment failures. Assist with the restoration of service, manage temporary fixes, and perform long-term solutions. Equipment Operation & Maintenance:

Operate and maintain pumps, motors, valves, flow meters, chemical feed systems, and other equipment involved in water treatment and distribution. Perform routine inspections, servicing, and preventive maintenance on these systems. Customer Service & Public Interaction:

Respond to customer inquiries and complaints regarding water quality, pressure, and service interruptions. Provide information on water usage and safety. Educate the public on water-related issues and municipal services. Safety Compliance:

Ensure safe practices are followed in all aspects of work, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and compliance with OSHA, state, and local safety regulations. Participate in safety drills and training sessions. Collaboration & Reporting:

Work closely with other members of the Street Department, Waster Water Department, and the City Administrator and other Public Works staff, and municipal officials to address operational issues, system upgrades, preventative and proactive maintenance, capital planning and emergency preparedness. Submit regular reports on system status, water quality, and compliance. Qualifications

Education & Experience:

High school diploma or GED required as a minimum Minimum of 5 years of experience in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants, distribution systems, or related field. Experience working in a municipal water utility is preferred.

Licensing/Certifications:

A valid Class B Water Operator License issued by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) is required. Additional certifications in water treatment (e.g., Distribution, Backflow Prevention, Chlorine Safety) are a plus.

Skills & Knowledge:

Strong knowledge of water treatment processes, distribution systems, water quality, and regulatory standards. Familiarity with the operation of water treatment and distribution equipment, including pumps, motors, and chemical feeders. Ability to interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. Ability to operate and maintain various types of mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment used in water treatment. Proficiency with computers and basic software tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, data entry systems, SCADA software). Knowledge of water safety and emergency procedures, including water contamination protocols.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Must be able to work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain) and in confined spaces. Must be able to perform tasks requiring bending, crouching, climbing, and working in elevated or confined areas (e.g., water tanks, wells). Ability to perform manual labor and physical tasks as part of emergency response and maintenance activities.

Other Requirements:

Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot equipment failures and resolve operational issues. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, to interact with team members, municipal staff, and the public. Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as part of on-call duties. Valid Illinois driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with SCADA systems for monitoring and controlling water distribution and treatment operations. Previous experience working in a municipal or public sector water utility environment. Knowledge of water conservation techniques and community outreach methods. Ability to operate heavy machinery and specialized water equipment (e.g., backhoe, dump truck). Working Conditions

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions. Must be able to work in confined spaces (e.g., pump stations, water treatment facilities) and at heights (e.g., water towers). Must be able to respond to emergency calls outside of regular working hours, including weekends and holidays. Position may require standing or walking for extended periods, and the ability to work in hazardous conditions (e.g., exposure to chemicals, electrical equipment).

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