Join the City of Decatur as an Equipment Operator and build a hands-on career maintaining the essential systems that keep our community running. You'll operate heavy machinery, respond to water emergencies, and help ensure safe, reliable water service for residents. With paid CDL training and great benefits, this is your opportunity to grow your skills and make an impact every day.

Enjoy a generous package of perks including:

Competitive Benefits: 12.5 paid holidays, comprehensive health benefits, excellent retirement pension plan, and paid vacation and sick leave,
Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups/physicals, chronic condition management, bloodwork, immunizations, and numerous free prescriptions for employees and dependents.

Salary will increase to $28.17 per hour after successfully completing the six-month probationary period.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

Operate heavy equipment, dump trucks, and small public works machinery
Perform preventive maintenance and minor equipment repairs as directed

Water System Maintenance & Repair

Maintain water systems by checking for leaks, installing and repairing mains, hydrants, service taps, and curb boxes
Conduct pressure tests and sterilize water mains
Investigate and repair water leaks in the distribution system
Locate and operate water valves and other system components

Emergency Response & General Maintenance

Perform preventive and emergency maintenance for the Water Services Division
Respond to water system emergencies outside of regular hours
Supervise and instruct helpers on general maintenance tasks

Needed Knowledge & Skills

Education & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent
Some experience in general labor or equivalent training and experience

Licenses & Certifications

Valid Illinois driver’s license required
Must obtain a CDL within 6 months (City-provided training)

Technical Knowledge & Abilities

Knowledge of tools and materials for water system maintenance
Familiarity with water system safety procedures, traffic laws, and Illinois EPA/Plumbing Code regulations
Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings and maps

Operational & Interpersonal Skills

Ability to safely operate and maintain public works equipment
Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and communicate effectively with the public
Physical ability to work outdoors in tough weather for extended periods

More Details

Examination Process

Written Examination All applicants must take a written examination. The passing criteria for the written examination is 70.00%.
Oral Interview Applicants passing the written test must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
Veteran Points Applicants passing the written test and oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
Seniority Points Applicable persons passing the written test and oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points for each full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.

The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace. This includes marijuana. Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, and background check post offer.

Residency

The Equipment Operator - Water Services position is covered under the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) collective bargaining agreement. AFSCME employees shall reside within 50 miles of the corporate limits of City of Decatur. An appointee may reside outside said limits but must comply no later than 90 days after the completion of the six-month probationary period.

To Apply

Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply today to become an Equipment Operator with the City of Decatur and gain valuable skills, long-term stability, and the satisfaction of serving your community. Don’t miss this opportunity to build a future with strong pay, full benefits, and hands-on work that makes a difference.

Complete an application at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/decaturil/jobs/4935338/equipment-operator-water-services?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobswith all requested relevant information. Incomplete applications will be rejected. Downloading a resume can prefill some application sections but does not preplace the application.

Equipment Operator - Water Services jobs

Equipment Operator - Water Services