System Operator III – Water/Wastewater (Poplar Grove, IL)
Location: Poplar Grove, Illinois
Country: United States
Category: Maintenance
Workplace Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Direct Hire/Perm
Posted Date: June 24, 2026
Job ID: 649002
Job Description
Pay: $46/hour
Our client is a Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
Under the direction of the Field Supervisor, this person will be responsible for performing tasks related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment for our water & wastewater treatment facilities in the area; this person will also assist with customer service as well.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the wastewater activated sludge treatment, lagoons, lift stations, and collection systems.
- Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the wastewater and water treatment plants, well facilities, pumping, and storage facilities (as needed).
- Operate / maintain the vehicles & equipment used in the water and wastewater facilities.
- Perform / record inspections & tests on the systems and facilities operations; this involves reviewing the associated data.
- Collect, analyze, and record water & wastewater samples for regulatory compliance as well as process control monitoring for proper operation of the systems.
- Prepare reports required by the Company, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency [IEPA], the Illinois Commerce Commission, or other jurisdictional entities.
- Respond to customer service, water distribution, and/or collection system work orders.
- Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Possess a High School Diploma (or Equivalent).
- Professional experience working with industrial mechanical systems and/or pumps is preferred.
- Must possess a valid U.S. Driver's Operator's License; CDL is a plus!
- Class II Wastewater License.
- Class B Water License.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills; this person will need to be able to communicate effectively (clearly, concisely, and professionally) with internal customers.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to readily read, understand, and accurately follow operating instructions (both written & verbal).
- Possess the mathematical ability to perform calculations which determine various ratios, dosages, and volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Systems.
- Computer literate with computer database tools as well as the ability to operate plant processes through computer-controlled equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions
- Must be able to lift and move equipment in excess of 50lbs and the ability to work in confined spaces; a lift test will be required at part of employment for this position.
- Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
- Company vehicle is provided for business purposes only.
- This position participates in a weekly on-call rotating schedule to adequately staff a 24 hour/7-day operation.
- Must be able to pass fit testing.
***This is a union position. Starting wage for a System Operator III is $46.00. Employees may receive a higher starting wage if they have the applicable water/wastewater license for the job classification. Employees will receive annual contract increases. Candidates who have a certification/license are eligible for an increase in pay and higher-level position.
EEO Statement
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The Planet Group and our companies are equal opportunity employers. It is our practice not to discriminate against any employee or applicant based on any criteria, condition or basis protected by laws or regulations in the locations where we do business. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion enable us to better meet our mission and values while serving our clients across the globe. If you have a disability or handicap and would like us to accommodate you in any reasonable way, please inform your recruiter, or contact us, so that we can discuss the appropriate alternatives available.
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About The Planet Group
The Planet Group is a global professional services firm delivering strategic staffing and advisory solutions. We operate at the intersection of talent and transformation – connecting the right people with the right opportunities in the areas of technology, engineering, accounting & finance, digital marketing, and manufacturing.
As one of the largest staffing companies in the US, we operate with a global reach and a performance-first mindset. We partner with clients to move fast, stay agile, and drive measurable results – building high-impact teams that fuel transformation and growth.