Water Operator

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.

• 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.

• High school education or equivalent
• Valid Oregon State drivers' license
• 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 and/or be on 24-hour emergency call when assigned as part of a rotation.

Required for all Operator levels: (Must be obtained within six months of employment)

• Oregon State Flagger certification card - employer provided
• Forklift card - employer provided
• First Aid & CPR - employer provided

Operator Technician

• Focus: Entry level operations and maintenance under direction
• Performs routine tasks with training and oversight
• May assist higher level operators on more complex work
• Does not routinely lead or direct work activities

Experience / Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Prior utility, construction, or related field experience
• Ability to obtain required certifications within established timelines

Note: Additional Operator 1 certification must be obtained within 18 months of employment.

Operator 1:

Focus: Fully trained operator performing assigned work independently

• Independently performs standard operational and maintenance tasks
• May provide task level guidance to Operator Technicians
• Participates in more complex repairs and troubleshooting

Experience / Qualifications

• 2 or more years of relevant water utility or closely related experience
• Demonstrated working knowledge of water distribution systems

Operator 1 - Additional Certification Requirements

• Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) / Oregon Health Authority certification:
  - Water Distribution Level I (D1) or
  - Water Treatment Level I (T1)

Operator 2:

Focus: Advanced technical expertise and leadership on complex work

• Performs advanced operational, maintenance, and repair activities
• Frequently provides oversight or direction to other operators on complex or specialized projects
• Serves as a technical resource within the team

Experience / Qualifications

• 3 or more years of progressively responsible water utility experience
• Superb working knowledge of water system operations, troubleshooting, and safety practices

Operator II - Additional Certification Requirements

• Higher level Oregon certification consistent with role assignment, such as:
  - Water Distribution Level II (D2) and/or
  - Water Treatment Level II (T2)