Water Treatment Plant Supervisor

The Position

This is an opportunity to lead water treatment operations for the largest water utility on the Oregon Coast, overseeing a 12 MGD treatment plant, two reservoirs and dams, and a full well field. Working under the direction of the Operations Manager, the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor directs the operation of the Water Treatment Section, including well field production, water plant operation and maintenance, source water protection, reservoir and dam operation and maintenance, and performs related work as required.

The Water Treatment Plant Supervisor oversees daily operations of treatment plants to ensure compliance with utility, state, and federal water quality standards, and is responsible for maintaining treatment facilities, reservoirs, and dams; managing source water and wellfield protection plans; and supervising the water quality laboratory. This role involves preparing technical reports, managing budgets and inventory, and ensuring safety in accordance with federal and Oregon OSHA standards. This position requires strong leadership and the ability to foster positive, effective relationships with staff, agencies, and the public, all while supporting the utility’s mission through strategic planning and operational excellence.

Education & Experience

Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in water treatment plant operation and maintenance, and graduation from high school or possession of a GED, plus an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, environmental studies or a related field is required. A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental studies or a related field, and Oregon Grade III Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification at the time of hire, along with experience with maintenance management programs and Microsoft application software is preferred.

Candidates must possess a driver’s license upon hire, obtain a valid Oregon driver’s license within 30 days, and have an acceptable driving record. Candidates holding a comparable certification from another state, or an Oregon Grade II working toward Grade III, are encouraged to apply. The selected candidate will have up to 12 months to secure an Oregon Grade III Water Treatment Plant Operator Certificate. The position serves as Technical Director of the Water Board’s state certified microbiological laboratory under Oregon Department of Health Services rules.

4 © 2026 Prothman. All Rights Reserved. Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of practices, procedures, equipment, and materials utilized in a modern water treatment plant.
• Considerable knowledge of the practices of municipal water system operations and maintenance.
• Thorough knowledge of the principles of water bacteriology, water chemistry and laboratory control methods.
• Thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards connected with the work and the required safety procedures.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and word processing software and use of personal computers.
• The ability to effectively supervise personnel and develop and maintain a positive, team-oriented working relationship with Water Board staff, maintaining a professional appearance and a courteous attitude toward customers and the general public.

Compensation & Benefits

• $94,308 - $120,364 DOQ
• Eligible for 5% increase after satisfactory completion of 6-month probationary period.
• Retirement plan – 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan (9% to 13% annually).
• Health, vision, and dental insurance – monthly employee contribution of 8.2% of cost of plan.
• Life insurance - $100,000 term policy – 100% premium paid by Board.
• 457 Deferred compensation plans through Nationwide – available to employees.
• Long Term Disability - paid for by Board.
• Vacation – 90 hours (Less than 5 years) accrue upon hire at prorated rate.
• Sick leave – 8 hours per month.
• Holidays – 13 paid.
• Administrative Leave – 6-day pool at hire.
• Voluntary Supplemental Benefit Options: Short term disability, Life flight/ambulatory insurance, Critical Illness Plan, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Plan, Trauma Plan.
• $5,000 moving allowance.