Electrician-Water Plant

Salary : $81,785.60 - $87,089.60 Annually
Location : Water Plant & Lab, 1501 Lower River Road, Great Falls, MT
Job Type: Regular Full Time
Job Number: 26-00107
Department: Public Works
Division: Water Plant
Opening Date: 10/15/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Union Classification: IBEW

NATURE OF WORK

Skilled crafts position with a focus on maintaining, troubleshooting, and modernizing the Water Treatment Plant's electrical and automation systems, including PLCs, VFDs, instrumentation, SCADA components, and Legacy electrical infrastructure. This role contributes to electrical system upgrades, process optimization, and integration of new technologies to improve reliability and efficiency of distribution water. Work is performed under the general direction of the Water Treatment Branch Manager, Water Plant Superintendent, or other Division Managers depending on the location of daily assigned duties.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF WORK
Preventive Maintenance and Inspection - 40%

• Performs routine inspections of electrical systems, motor control centers, VFDs, pumps, control panels, and backup power systems.
• Performs preventive maintenance on wiring, switchgear, protective devices, and backup power systems.
• Tests and verifies operation of sensors, level/flow transmitters, and SCADA-connected components using appropriate diagnostic and predictive maintenance tools.
• Inspects, cleans, and maintains rotating equipment, including synchronous motors, induction motors, and generators.
• Evaluates aging electrical equipment and recommends lifecycle replacements, modernization, and risk mitigation measures.
• Documents inspection findings, maintenance activities, and corrective actions.
• Develops cost estimates for routine maintenance in coordination with supervisors.

Repairs, Troubleshooting, and Corrective Work - 40%

• Diagnoses and repairs electrical problems involving motors, pumps, VFDs, panels, communication lines, and related equipment using manufacturer software and diagnostic tools.
• Troubleshoots PLC I/O, communication, network, and control system issues.
• Diagnoses and repairs defective electrical components, including breakers, contactors, relays, and control wiring.
• Works with operators and mechanics to resolve electrical problems affecting treatment processes and distribution systems.
• Responds to electrical emergencies and equipment failures to restore plant operations.
• Recommends corrective actions to address recurring electrical and equipment problems.
• Installs, repairs, and maintains security and video surveillance systems at City facilities.

Installations, Upgrades, and Project Support - 20%

• Installs electrical systems, equipment, panels, conduit, and wiring for in-house projects and plant upgrades.
• Assists with programming and modifying PLC logic for equipment maintenance and upgrades.
• Assists with instrumentation, automation, and SCADA integration for new and upgraded equipment.
• Assists with the removal, installation, and alignment of rotating equipment.
• Supports contractors and other professionals in the design and implementation of electrical and plant projects.
• Ensures electrical installations comply with NEC, NFPA, and applicable local codes.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma or equivalent plus graduation from an approved apprenticeship program.
• Four years of practical experience as an electrician.
• Associate degree or coursework in automation, industrial controls, instrumentation, or related field preferred.
• Experience working within water/wastewater facilities or other process-control environments preferred.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software-(Ignition Automation)preferred.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity practices for industrial control systems preferred.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

• State of Montana Master Electrician license preferred.
• Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain valid Montana driver's license.

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

• Considerable knowledge of electrical theory and the operation, maintenance, and repair of industrial electrical equipment, including motors, controllers, switchgear, relays, and medium- and low-voltage systems.
• Working knowledge of industrial control systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), preferably Allen-Bradley.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial communication protocols and networks, including Ethernet/IP, fiber optics, and cellular networks.
• Considerable knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and applicable standards and practices for electrical installation, maintenance, and repair.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical plans, specifications, blueprints, and wiring diagrams.
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical equipment and control systems and use appropriate diagnostic tools and software.
• Experience with variable frequency drive (VFD) programming, tuning, and diagnostics.
• Ability to operate computers and use software and technology required for electrical maintenance, diagnostics, and control systems.
• Ability to coordinate with IT staff, SCADA personnel, and contractors on networked control systems, including cybersecurity practices and system data integrity.
• Ability to respond after hours to emergencies and weather-related events as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Advanced Technical Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Technical Troubleshooting
• Analytical Problem Solving
• Context Based Decision Making
• Instrumentation & Controls
• Collaboration & Communication
• Documentation
• System Reliability Minded
• Safety Oriented & Risk Aware

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position does not supervise staff.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed primarily at the Water Plant or throughout the water distribution network. Employee is exposed to loud noise, inclement weather, electricity and chemical odors.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend, twist, reach, ride, climb and perform similar body movements. Must have the ability to perform moderate to heavy physical work and to frequently lift and carry up to 75 pounds at a time; the possession of hand/eye coordination sufficient to use hand and power tools and a motor vehicle; the ability to talkand hear in person or by telephone; and the ability to see and read instructions, blueprints and manuals.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
The work schedule is a 40-hour work week, Sunday through Saturday. Work is typically performed Monday through Friday. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime. Any overtime must be authorized prior to working.

TRAVEL
Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site training and educational opportunities.
Full-time Employee Benefits

The City of Great Falls offers a complete benefits package to our full-time employee including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement/pensions, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The City offers life and long term disability insurance to all full-time non-union employees. Union employees receive longevity pay. Optional plans are available for employees, flexible spending account, and 457 deferred compensation accounts.

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