"Chief Water Systems Operator / Senior Plumber 2 (40-Hour Work Week)"

Job Summary/Basic Function

About the position:
The Chief Water Treatment Plant Operator / Senior Plumber is responsible for the comprehensive management, operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of the campus water treatment and distribution systems. This role also includes advanced plumbing and pipefitting responsibilities, overseeing installation, repair, and projects, and guiding lower-level staff in plumbing-related tasks. The position ensures the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water and effective wastewater and stormwater management, while maintaining plumbing infrastructure across campus facilities.

Water is pumped from an established well to the water treatment plant where it is disinfected, treated, softened, and distributed to the campus and the water tower. The chief operator operates the equipment, controls the processes, and monitors the plant and distribution infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, quality drinking water and adequate firefighting water supply.

Work is performed independently in accordance with the regulations of the Department of Environmental Protection and other regulatory agencies.

Work is evaluated based on water quality, supply, standard logs and records, and the adherence to established operating policy and governing regulations.

Water treatment plants operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The system operator must be available to work during the day and be on call nights and weekends.

Join Our Team at Millersville University!

Salary starting at: $50,053.00 annually
Plus a generous benefits package designed to support your well-being and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage - Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Group Life Insurance
• Retirement Plans - Choose from two excellent options
• Tuition Waiver - Invest in your education or your family’s
• Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick leave, and holidays to recharge
• Full Benefits Summary(PDF)

Why Millersville?

Nestled in beautiful Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Millersville University is a proud member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. We’re known for:

• Strong student-faculty connections
• 70+ undergraduate and 24 graduate programs
• A stunning campus and vibrant community
• Outstanding job placement for graduates

With over 66,000 alumni across the globe, our impact is far-reaching—and growing.

Our Mission & Values:

At Millersville, we live by our EPPIIC values of Exploration, Public Mission, Professionalism, Inclusion, Integrity, and Compassion.
We are deeply committed to Inclusive Excellence—creating a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone can thrive. We believe diversity is a strength, and we actively seek individuals who bring unique perspectives and experiences to our community.

Equal Opportunity for All:

Millersville University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. Individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Water Treatment and Distribution:

• Operate, monitor, maintain, and repair water treatment systems including pumps, softeners, brine tanks, water tower, valves, and distribution lines.
• Conduct chemical, microbiological, and physical testing of water samples; interpret results and adjust treatment processes to meet regulatory standards.
• Maintain swimming pool operations including water chemistry, filtration, and temperature control.
• Monitor sewage metering stations; calibrate and maintain equipment; sample and report findings.
• Maintain fire hydrants and assist with flow testing.
• Respond to water quality complaints and troubleshoot all system issues.
• Act as the primary contact for regulatory authorities and official reporting.

Plumbing and Pipefitting:

• Perform journey-to-master level plumbing tasks including installation, repair, and replacement of water, gas, stormwater, sanitary sewer systems, and drain, waste, vent infrastructure.
• Complete preventive and corrective maintenance and initial response for malfunctions of kitchen equipment associated with a commercial kitchen. Coordinate contractor/vendor support as needed.
• Install, replace or repair piping, sewer lines, fixtures and equipment associated with the plumbing trade.
• Plan and execute plumbing projects; develop layouts, estimates, and installation diagrams.
• Inspect structures and systems to determine material needs and work methods.
• Locate and mark underground utilities for installation and repair projects.
• Maintain knowledge of plumbing codes, regulations, and utility guidelines.
• Guide and instruct lower-level plumbers and maintenance staff; identify training needs and deliver plumbing-related training.

Safety and Compliance:

• Ensure all water treatment and plumbing operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including those set by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and other relevant agencies.
• Maintain and update safety data sheets (SDS) for all chemicals used in water treatment and plumbing tasks.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols for handling hazardous materials, confined space entry, lockout/tagout procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Conduct regular safety inspections and risk assessments of water treatment and plumbing systems.
• Maintain certifications and training in water treatment, pool operation, and plumbing safety standards.
• Serve as the primary contact for regulatory inspections and audits; prepare and submit required documentation and reports.
• Train staff on safety procedures, emergency response protocols, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Monitor contracted work to ensure adherence to safety and compliance standards.

Leadership and Oversight:

• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules; maintain detailed records in the work order system.
• Consult with engineers and code officials to resolve operational issues.
• Inventory and manage chemical and material supplies; ensure proper storage and handling.

Emergency and On-Call Duties:

• Respond to alarms and emergencies; assess and resolve issues promptly.
• Be available for on-call duties during nights and weekends as required by the 24/7 operation of the water treatment plant.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of or ability to obtain a Class C, Type 2 Water Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State Board of Certification of Sewage Treatment Plant and Waterworks within six months of employment.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a Certified Pool Operator License within six months of employment.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s License in Category 24.
• Valid driver’s license to operate motorized vehicles and forklift.

Experience:

• Minimum of five years of experience in the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing components and fixtures.
• At least two years of independent plumbing installation and repair experience in commercial, industrial, or multi-unit residential structures.
• Equivalent combinations of experience and training may be considered, provided they include two years of independent plumbing work in qualifying environments.

Knowledge of:

• Methods, materials, and practices of the plumbing and pipefitting trades.
• Building codes, safety regulations, and hazard precautions related to plumbing and piping systems.
• Tools and equipment used in plumbing and water treatment operations.
• Water tank and line flow, pressure, and capacity.
• Operation and maintenance of water treatment plants, water storage, and distribution systems.
• Regulatory requirements from the Department of Environmental Protection and other applicable agencies.
• Chemical, physical, and biological principles related to water quality testing and treatment.
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical diagrams, and regulatory documents.
• Create diagrams and drawings for piping system installations and modifications.
• Troubleshoot plumbing and water system issues using diagnostic methods.
• Conduct and interpret laboratory tests related to water quality.
• Operate, maintain, and repair pumps, compressors, filters, and other water treatment equipment.
• Read digital and analog charts, graphs, meters, and computer readouts; maintain accurate records.
• Perform preventative maintenance and make repairs to water treatment and pool equipment.
• Understand and interpret federal and state laws governing water treatment and pool operations.
• React calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Work outdoors under varying climatic conditions.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Demonstrate commitment to inclusive practices and working with diverse populations.

Additional Requirements:

• May be required to work beyond regular hours to maintain water supply or reduce service interruptions.
• May be required to work weekends or holidays.
• May be subject to emergency recall procedures.
• Successful completion of a structured interview process.
• Successful completion of three background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience as a water treatment plant operator.
• Four years’ experience in the plumbing trade or completion of an approved apprenticeship program or any equivalent combination of experience and training that affords the applicant the required knowledge, skills and ability to the journey or higher level.
• Experience in operating snow clearing equipment such as tractors, grounds equipment, and plow trucks.
• Boiler inspection certification.

Job Description

Essential Functions

Please Note: These duties are to be performed with or without an accommodation. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Ability to work in person on campus.
• Work is performed both indoors and outdoors year-round, in a variety of environmental conditions including heat, humidity, rain, snow, sleet, windstorms, and extreme hot or cold weather.
• Work environments may be dry, wet, humid, noisy due to construction or equipment operation, and may include exposure to dust, odors, debris, chemicals, mold, asbestos-containing materials (ACM), lead-based paint, and other potentially hazardous substances.
• Exposure to hazards such as loud noises, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, fumes, mist, poor ventilation, oils, and cramped or confined spaces such as water mains.
• May encounter pressurized systems including gas, steam, compressed air, and high-pressure water systems.
• May be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, respirators, eye protection, hearing protection, and other safety gear, especially when handling chlorine or other chemical tanks.
• Must be able to lift, pull, or push up to 50 pounds without assistance and occasionally move up to 100 pounds of bulk materials with assistance.
• Ability to stand for long periods and work in uncomfortable positions including squatting, stooping, bending, stretching, twisting, reaching above shoulders, and performing fine and gross hand manipulation.
• Possession of sensory capabilities necessary to perform the duties described in this job description.
• Water treatment plants operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. System operators must be available to work during the day and be on call after hours, weekends, and holidays.
• May be required to work outside for up to 8 hours a day.

To apply, please visit:

https://jobs.millersville.edu/postings/14135