Water Operator (Technician, 1 or 2)

Position Summary:

The Water Operator performs a variety of work in the operation, maintenance, and repair of water (and sewer, where applicable) systems. The Operator also responds to public inquiries and service requests as needed. This position is structured with multiple levels (Technician, Operator I, Operator II). The level at which a candidate is hired will depend on their qualifications, relevant experience, and applicable certifications.

This position does not directly oversee other employees on a permanent basis but does frequently have responsibility and oversight of personnel directly related to specific advanced projects as assigned. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. They will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other work- related duties requested by their supervisor.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Install and repair water mains, fire-hydrants, check valves and water service lines; tap water mains; perform ground excavation work; mix, rake and spread asphalt, and patch and/or repair excavations.
• Inspect, operate and exercise gate valves to prevent seizures; flush fire hydrants and dead-end water lines in cul-de-sacs to remove sediment; take water samples for testing.
• Locate, identify and mark distribution system facilities, including valves, fire hydrants and blow-offs
• Locate and identify leaks
• Install, relocate and adjust meter boxes and valve cans; install and replace water meters.
• Perform repair and maintenance on all water and wastewater facilities, including structures and grounds.
• Operate service trucks; routinely inspect and perform minor maintenance on assigned vehicles; remove and replace defective parts. Assist with transporting vehicles to repair shops.
• Comply with all NW Natural Water Services policies, procedures and safety regulations.
• Comply with NW Natural Water Services grooming and uniform policy.
• Provide effective communication, in written and verbal form, with management and/or other operators on the technical level required of this position.
• Participate in specialized training for the safe handling of hazardous materials and confined space entry.
• Participating in weekly team meetings
• Ability to work on a team, and independently with or without supervision.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:

• Variety of hand tools, hand-held power equipment, light and medium duty vehicles and equipment including vacuum excavation.
• Computer and general office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND ENVIRONMENT:

• The environmental conditions and characteristics described here are representative of those employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
• The working environment will vary from extreme outdoor conditions to indoor job duties. This position regularly works outside, year-round, in all weather conditions.
• Safety procedures must always be followed, as workers will continually be exposed to hazardous materials, confined space, electrical components and heavy equipment.
• The noise level in the field environment is usually moderate, except when operating hand-held power equipment.

Qualifications:

• High school education or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license (or obtain within 90 days if out-of-state), required certifications/endorsements, and satisfactory driving record.
• Must consent to annual Motor Vehicle Records check and pass Criminal History check
• Must be able to safely lift a minimum of 50 pounds, more with additional help.
• Must be able to physically accommodate and use respirators and self-contained breathing apparatuses.
• Must be physically able to access and egress trenches, manholes and lift stations as well as water reservoirs and towers.
• Must be able to accommodate a weekend or variable shift, participate in a 24-hour emergency call rotation when assigned, and work beyond regularly scheduled hours as needed to meet operational and project deadlines.