Electrician-Water Plant

City of Great Falls•Great Falls, MT

About The Position

This skilled crafts position maintains, troubleshoots, and modernizes the Water Treatment Plant’s electrical and automation systems, including PLCs, VFDs, instrumentation, SCADA components, and legacy electrical infrastructure. The role contributes to electrical system upgrades, process optimization, and integration of new technologies to improve the reliability and efficiency of water distribution. 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. The position performs preventive maintenance and inspections; diagnoses and repairs electrical, motor, pump, control, and communication issues; and installs or upgrades electrical systems and equipment. It supports PLC, instrumentation, automation, and SCADA integration, as well as plant projects and contractors. The employee also maintains security and video surveillance systems at City facilities and ensures electrical installations comply with applicable codes. Work is primarily at the Water Plant or throughout the water distribution network. The employee may be exposed to loud noise, inclement weather, electricity, and chemical odors. The position has a 40-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday, and is eligible for authorized overtime. Local travel is expected, with occasional travel for off-site training and educational opportunities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and graduation from an approved apprenticeship program.
Four years of practical experience as an electrician.
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); Allen-Bradley experience is preferred.
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.
Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid Montana driver’s license.
Ability to perform moderate to heavy physical work and frequently lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
Sufficient hand/eye coordination to use hand and power tools and a motor vehicle; ability to talk and hear in person or by telephone; and ability to see and read instructions, blueprints, and manuals.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or coursework in automation, industrial controls, instrumentation, or a related field.
Experience working within water/wastewater facilities or other process-control environments.
Experience with HMI/SCADA software, specifically Ignition Automation.
Familiarity with cybersecurity practices for industrial control systems.
State of Montana Master Electrician license.

Responsibilities

Perform routine inspections of electrical systems, motor control centers, VFDs, pumps, control panels, and backup power systems.
Perform preventive maintenance on wiring, switchgear, protective devices, and backup power systems.
Test and verify sensors, level and flow transmitters, and SCADA-connected components using diagnostic and predictive maintenance tools.
Inspect, clean, and maintain rotating equipment, including synchronous motors, induction motors, and generators.
Evaluate aging electrical equipment and recommend lifecycle replacements, modernization, and risk mitigation measures.
Document inspection findings, maintenance activities, and corrective actions; develop routine maintenance cost estimates with supervisors.
Diagnose and repair electrical problems involving motors, pumps, VFDs, panels, communication lines, and related equipment using manufacturer software and diagnostic tools.
Troubleshoot PLC I/O, communication, network, and control system issues.
Diagnose and repair defective electrical components, including breakers, contactors, relays, and control wiring.
Work with operators and mechanics to resolve electrical problems affecting treatment processes and distribution systems.
Respond to electrical emergencies and equipment failures to restore plant operations, and recommend corrective actions for recurring problems.
Install, repair, and maintain security and video surveillance systems at City facilities.
Install electrical systems, equipment, panels, conduit, and wiring for in-house projects and plant upgrades.
Assist with programming and modifying PLC logic for equipment maintenance and upgrades.
Assist with instrumentation, automation, and SCADA integration for new and upgraded equipment.
Assist with the removal, installation, and alignment of rotating equipment.
Support contractors and other professionals in the design and implementation of electrical and plant projects.
Ensure electrical installations comply with NEC, NFPA, and applicable local codes.
Respond after hours to emergencies and weather-related events as assigned.
Coordinate with IT staff, SCADA personnel, and contractors on networked control systems, including cybersecurity practices and system data integrity.