Chief Plant Operator

Salary: $36.13 - $57.81 Hourly
Location : Stuart
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: R00196
Department: Water Reclamation Team
Opening Date: 11/06/2025
FLSA: Exempt

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Plant Services Manager, performs technical and administrative work in the operation of either the water treatment plant or water reclamation facility. This is a responsible position requiring an individual with varied skills and abilities. The primary responsibility is that of supervising the overall operation and maintenance of either the City's water treatment plant or water reclamation facility. Work is reviewed by the Plant Services Manager through conferences, reports, observation, and success in achieving established goals.

Examples of Essential Functions

Determines the need for special attention to operating or maintenance requirements and leaves instructions for subsequent shift personnel for execution. Develops department work schedules.

Recognizes deviations in plant processes or irregularities in plant operations; identifies their sources, causes and effects related to the performance of the facility.

Coordinates replacement and upgrading of plant equipment. Assists in planning of maintenance, repairs, and overhaul of plant equipment.

Sets priorities for corrections of abnormal conditions and implements proper corrective measures as needed to maintain either water or water reclamation effluent quality.

Responds to all operational emergencies conditions and performs or supervises corrective action.

Directs either the operation of the chemical feed machines, filters, and treatment basins at the water treatment plant or the operation of the process control, reclaimed water system, and quantitative and qualitative testing to ensure permit compliance at the water reclamation facility.

Trains subordinate employees in major elements of their job. Delegates responsibility and authority to carry out position requirements.

Responsible for the safety of employees and equipment.

Responsible for preparation of employee annual evaluations.

Maintains daily and monthly reports on plant operations and laboratory records.

Prepares bid specifications as needed.

Prepares department budgetary estimates.

Maintains inventory and orders supplies and parts.

NOTE: The examples of essential functions as listed in this classification specification are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning specific duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.
Minimum Qualifications

Water Treatment Plant:
High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum five (5) years directly related work experience in addition to three (3) years supervisory experience.

Must possess the State of Florida Department of Professional Regulation Drinking Water "A" Treatment Plant Operator License.

Must be proficient in computerized plant operations programs.

Must possess a valid Florida Driver License.

Water Reclamation Facility:
High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum five (5) years directly related work experience in addition to three (3) years supervisory experience.

Must possess the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Class "A" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License.

Must be proficient in computerized plant operations programs.

Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License.
Supplemental Information
Please review the full job description for this position by clicking on the Menu option in the upper left, and then select Class Specifications. This is an important step in reviewing the KSA's and Physical, Environmental, and Sensory Requirements.

This position is considered "Mission Critical" (aka "Essential") and is required to report to duty before, during, and immediately after a civil emergency.

The City of Stuart is a tobacco-free/vaping-free workplace. All applicants must attest that they have not used tobacco or nicotine products for the preceding 3-month period from the date of application. Candidates chosen for positions with the City of Stuart must undergo pre-employment screening to include verification of their non-use of tobacco or nicotine products in order to be considered for employment.

The City of Stuart is An Equal Opportunity Employer ADA/VP/DFWP/TFWP
An employer's benefits package is like a second paycheck...and the City's programming is of note. Most benefits take effect the first of the month following the first 60 days of employment, with some taking effect immediately (deferred compensation, FRS, etc.).

The City is pleased to offer:

• Medical and Dental Insurance (two medical programs and two dental programs are offered to meet your needs) - 4 tiers of coverage to choose from
• Telehealth services and prescription mail-order program
• A robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering 24/7 assistance and support (this benefit is provided to full-time and part-time employees)
• An Employee Health Center (EHC) - a benefit provided at no cost to employees and dependents on the City's health insurance
• Vision Insurance - 4 tiers of coverage to choose from
• Life Insurance, Supplemental Life Insurance, and Dependent Life Insurance
• Deferred compensation through MissionSquare Retirement - several options to choose from
• Retirement benefits through the Florida Retirement System (FRS) - the City and employee share in the contributions
• Supplemental insurance offerings including AFLAC, Liberty Mutual, US Legal, Pet Benefit Solutions and Nationwide Pet Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Account
• Long Term Disability Insurance and Short Term Disability Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to 18 credits per fiscal year with no $ limit (budget dependent; evaluated every year)
• Tuition Deferral agreements with several universities - partners with tuition reimbursement program
• Comprehensive Wellness Programming that encourages physical, emotional, nutritional, and overall wellbeing

The City also offers Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Optional Holidays, and a Birthday Day. Collective Bargaining Agreements may offer other provisions or additional benefits (such as Long-Term Disability or Short-Term Disability, at the City's expense, etc.).

To learn more about our well-rounded benefits programming, visit our website: