Water Operator I

Be part of a team that is making a difference in the lives of our residents every day. Together, let's shape a brighter future for our community!

Salary Range: $25.33 per hour, DOE

Job Summary: 

The Water Operator I’s primary responsibilities are to demonstrate and perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in the operation, installation, maintenance and repair of the City of Meridian’s potable and reclaimed water distribution systems. This classification performs a full range of basic and intermediate activities that include, but are not limited to operation, installation, maintenance and repair of the City of Meridian’s potable and recycled water distribution systems, handling customer related issues, and performing needed customer service activities for Meridian Utility Billing Services (MUBS). Continually strives to maintain and improve operations and accuracy. The incumbent must perform work safely, efficiently, and accurately, occasionally under adverse conditions. Provide assistance and support to the Meridian Utility Billing Services (MUBS) and other Departments when needed. Expected to exercise initiative and independent judgment both individually, and as part of a team, in assisting with maintenance, operations, projects and technical related activities of the Water Division. Works under the direction of the Field Services Supervisor, Water Maintenance Supervisor, or Lead Construction Operator Lead Construction Operator. 

• Provide excellent customer service to both internal and external customers;
• Perform troubleshooting, installations, repairs, testing and replacements of water mains, services, fire hydrants, meters and related water distribution system facilities and equipment;
• Operate a variety of equipment, machinery and tools used in department projects and activities, which may include a utility truck, dump truck, backhoe, vacuum excavator, forklift and / or other related equipment and hand tools;
• Perform specialized, skilled, semi-skilled, and general maintenance and operations work to water operation, production, distribution and treatment system and programs including, but not limited to repair, new installation, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting equipment failures, water sampling, line locates and service request completion; Assist other crews, departments and others with regular maintenance and special projects when required;
• Effectively and courteously communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, public, outside agencies, or other individuals or groups as needed;
• Operate handheld reading devices, accurately reads and records usage, responds to customer requests to City  related water  issues, performs connections and disconnections of services, performs leak tests, re-reading of meters, generates work orders for field corrections and follows through;
• Perform standardized water quality tests as required under drinking water rules and regulations; 
• Operate a personal computer, SCADA, meter reading equipment and related software;
• Perform general cleaning / maintenance tasks necessary to keep facilities, vehicles, equipment, and tools in operable condition; reports faulty equipment;
• Continuously strive to protect water quality, decrease turnaround times, and streamline work processes; work cooperatively and jointly to maintain compliance and provide safe and compliant high quality drinking water and seamless customer service;
• Communicate with supervisor, employees, other departments and agencies to coordinate work activities, collaborate, exchange information, or resolve problems; lead by example demonstrating City CARE values and promoting teamwork;
• Prepare and maintain work records, including work/service orders, according to asset management program and service order software; capture data and maintain accuracy through timely collection; ensure deadlines are met and adjustments/recommend changes as needed;  
• Maintain through and accurate records and computer entries in Division and other department data bases, understand and follow written and verbal instructions, regulations and policies, read and interpret blueprints of water distribution system, service orders, maintenance manuals and other related literature;
• Maintain and ensure work environment is in alignment and in compliance with the City’s Standard Operating Policies, Safety Policies and other related policies / procedures in regards to safety prevention; works in a safe manner and reports unsafe activities, conditions and faulty equipment; communicate effectively with customers, supervisor, employees, other departments, vendors, and agencies to coordinate work activities, collaborate, exchange information, or resolve problems; lead by example demonstrating City CARE values and promoting teamwork;
• When required, assist administration by answering questions or office phones;
• Position is subject to callback, overtime, weekend/holiday emergency call outs and on-call duty;
• Perform other duties as assigned;
• Position subject to cross-training in other sections of the Water Division, as deemed necessary.

Job Specifications:

• High school graduate or equivalent;
• One (1) year of progressive experience in the water production/treatment, water distribution, and customer service; or, any combination of experience, education sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position.

Licensing and Certifications:

Must hold the following State of Idaho licenses:

• Class I Water Distribution Operators License within one (1) year from hire.
• Class I Water Distribution Operators License within one (1) year of hire.
• Class A Commercial Driver's License within eighteen (18) months of hire.
• Idaho Driver's License with safe driving record

Must hold the following FEMA certification:

• Incident Command System 100 within one (1) year of hire.
• Incident Command System 200 within one (1) year of hire.

Complete all other required safety training and certifications

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us! 

City of Meridian is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, order of protection status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law.

The City of Meridian is unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time. This includes, but is not limited to, H-1B and F-1 visa categories. Candidates must possess valid work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship.