Job Description:
Applications are due September 30, 2026, but we will review and conduct interviews on a rolling basis. We strongly encourage you to apply early! Our mission begins with the Town’s motto, “Closer to What Matters,” and what matters is our people. We are a team of individuals from diverse backgrounds who share the common goal of being the premier government agency in Northeast Florida. We believe that safe neighborhoods, beautiful green spaces, well-kept facilities, clean water, and friendly neighborhood events bringing the community together are just some of the ways Orange Park team members benefit our residents. If you are ready to see the meaningful difference you make in the daily lives of others, you have come to the right place. Applicants and candidates can see the Town’s commitment to our team members through competitive wages, comprehensive benefits plans, supplemental plans, Employee Assistance Program, deferred compensation options, and evolving employee engagement, development, and advocacy strategies. The most common traits of successful team members include reliability, dedication to service, and collaborative mentality. We embrace candidates who share in our core values of integrity, accountability, transparency, ethics, and economic stewardship. Come join a team that will definitely bring you “closer to what matters.”
Job Summary:
The Town of Orange Park is seeking qualified candidates for our Water / Wastewater Utility Operator series. Position level (I, II, III, or IV) and compensation will be determined based on the applicant's prior experience and active licenses. Incumbents are responsible for the skilled operation and maintenance of the Town water and AWWT Wastewater plants, running laboratory compliance tests, monitoring plant performance, and performing field checks across facilities and lift stations.
Tiered Requirements (Find Your Fit)
Look at the qualifications below to see which tier matches your experience and licensing:
- Position Level
- Education & Basic Requirements
- Required Florida Licenses
Utility Operator IHigh School Diploma or GED; Valid FL Driver's LicenseActive State of Florida Class C Wastewater Operator LicenseUtility Operator IIHigh School Diploma or GED; Valid FL Driver's LicenseActive State of Florida Class B Wastewater LicenseUtility Operator IIIHigh School Diploma or GED; Valid FL Driver's LicenseActive State of Florida Class C Water AND Class C Wastewater LicenseUtility Operator IVHigh School Diploma or GED; Valid FL Driver's LicenseActive State of Florida Class B Wastewater AND Class C Water License
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Regardless of tier, all operators perform the following core duties:
- Plant Operations & Monitoring: Monitor control panels, gauges, valves, and gates to regulate water/wastewater flow. Take readings from various meters and charts throughout the plants.
- Testing & Laboratory Work: Collect water samples and conduct laboratory testing to monitor plant performance, ensure compliance with regulatory agencies, and regulate chemical treatments (e.g., chlorine). Utility Operator IV level includes lab oversight, reagent ordering, and equipment calibration.
- Facility & Equipment Maintenance: Stand watch and perform operational checks, maintenance, and repairs on plant equipment, auxiliary systems, pumps, blowers, chlorinators, and drives. Assist with keeping all facilities clean, lubricated, and painted.
- Field Checks & Lift Stations: Make periodic rounds of water/wastewater facilities and lift stations throughout the Town; maintain sludge beds.
- Logs & Reporting: Maintain daily operational logs, compile data, and complete entries on required reporting forms. Promptly notify Lead Operators or the Superintendent of chemical/material supply needs.
- Core Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of modern principles, practices, rules, and regulations governing water/wastewater plant operations, treatment, collection, and distribution.
- Ability to read blueprints and technical specifications related to plant operations and maintenance.
- Strong mathematical proficiency, including basic math, advanced concepts (fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages), and data analysis.
- Clear oral and written communication skills for record-keeping and team coordination.
- High level of personal initiative and sound operational judgment.
Physical Demands & Work Environment:
This is a safety-sensitive role requiring physical stamina and outdoor work across plant facilities.
Physical Demands:
Regular standing, walking, sitting, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, reaching, grasping, and repetitive motions. Extended periods viewing computer screens may be required.
Lifting: Frequent lifting and carrying of items weighing under and over 20 pounds.
Workplace Hazards: Daily exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, flammable or explosive gases, electrical currents, cleaning agents, and proximity to moving mechanical parts.
