Press Operator (Water Treatment)

Job Title: Press Operator (Water Treatment) Posting Start Date: 4/20/26 Primary Role Kentucky American Water is seeking a Press Operator to join our Production operations in Owenton, KY. This role works directly with our plant operators and leads the press operation. You will perform routine equipment checks, load and dispose of material into trucks and trailers, and perform light groundskeeping. The Press Operator will also train on operating the plant and fill in for the plant operator as needed. The ideal candidate will be mechanically inclined and have knowledge of water and/or wastewater treatment and production. The Press Operator operates and maintains the water treatment, as well as handles processing, disposal, and tests equipment in the facility to permit and operational requirements. The Press Operator is fully qualified to perform the most complex functions and lead the work of others. Key Accountabilities Safety – demonstrate and enforce practices that are consistent with a goal of zero accidents and injuries; adhere to all safety policies and procedures; assist in operations of office with required focus on all aspects of safety. (15%) Training – employee orientation, departmental operating procedures, Safety, OSHA and Quality Training; team leader/supervisory training; Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Level I and II. (10%) Perform field tests to pace chemical dosages for process controls or alter unit processes; collect samples according to schedule; prepare chemical solutions and services automatic samplers; monitor process chemical supplies and recommend reorder. (15%) Efficiently operate all equipment in facility – pumps, engines, centrifuge, generators, valves, conveyors, blowers, belt presses, processing filters, etc. (15%) Ensure all operating personnel implement standard operating procedures for all associated plant process; take corrective action when test results are outside acceptable ranges, including changing process control, biological system, and feed rates of chemicals. (20%) Respond to requests, inquiries, or complaints; promptly inform Area or Facility Manager of potential risk situations. Tasks performed by subordinates are periodically checked for quality and accuracy. (25%) Knowledge/Skills Extensive knowledge of the objectives, equipment, and operations of modern water and wastewater treatment plants Extensive knowledge of methods and materials of water and/or wastewater systems Thorough knowledge of the layout, location and equipment characteristics of water and wastewater systems and of the treatment plants Knowledge of the regulatory and legal environment of modern water and wastewater systems and water and wastewater treatment, including environmental law and contract law as applicable Must have broad knowledge of MS Office products, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access Must understand the working principle behind a computerized maintenance management program Experience/Education High school diploma or general education degree (GED) At least five (5) years water and/or wastewater systems and treatment Work Schedule Full-time, on-site Monday-Friday, day shift On-call responsibility and overtime as needed Certifications/Licenses Kentucky Class IV-A Water Treatment Operators license preferred Valid state driver's license Work Environment May be required to work indoor or outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold or other adverse weather conditions Standing 25%; walking 75% for as many as 5 miles per shift; required to occasionally stoop, kneel or crouch and enter confined spaces; may be required to use ladders or stairs Able to lift or move up to 50-60 pounds May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards and electrical equipment Travel Requirements Local travel within service territory may be required Competencies Champions safety Customer obsessed Cultivates innovation Nimble learning Drives Results Collaborates American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr American Water Co.