Lead Distribution Operator

Fort Bend County Water Control & Improvement District No 2•Stafford, TX

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Field Services Supervisor, the Lead Distribution Operator leads, guides, and participates in the work of an assigned crew. The role supports the District’s water distribution operations by serving as a backup supervisor of field services, handling purchasing responsibilities, overseeing and assigning work for the repair crew, and ensuring accurate work-order logging. The position also schedules and changes out meters, uses computer systems, maintains compliance with applicable standards, and trains and instructs crew members to ensure work is performed correctly. The position involves leading and participating in the installation, maintenance, repair, and modification of water distribution infrastructure, including mains, valves, hydrants, meters, and service connections. It includes field operations, customer communication, record keeping, emergency response, and maintenance of assigned vehicles and equipment. The employee may provide rotating on-call service after hours, on weekends, and on holidays, and may be required to work varying hours and overtime during emergencies. Work requires physical activity including standing, walking, climbing stairs and ladders, balancing, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crawling, bending, and twisting. The employee must regularly lift or move up to 10 pounds and frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds. Work may involve outdoor weather, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, wet conditions, unpleasant odors, uncomfortable climates, and occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts, elevated or precarious locations, and electrical-shock risks. Proper PPE is provided and must be used. The employee must pass annual respirator physical and fit testing; safety rules restrict contact lenses around certain chemicals and facial hair that prevents a proper respirator fit.

Requirements

Knowledge of effective leadership techniques, work coordination, and training best practices.
Knowledge of water distribution operations, including installation, maintenance, and safety procedures.
Knowledge of disinfection protocols, trench excavation safety, and leak detection methods.
Knowledge of water utility pipeline systems, service connections, and backflow prevention devices.
Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards governing water distribution.
Ability to guide and direct crew members while maintaining workflow efficiency.
Ability to assist with planning work assignments, setting priorities, and training staff.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, and regulatory documents.
Ability to operate hand and power tools used for water system maintenance.
Ability to troubleshoot water system issues and implement effective repairs.
Ability to maintain precise records and documentation using modern office equipment and software.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with team members and customers.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, including frequent lifting or moving of up to 50 pounds.
Must pass annual respirator physical and fit testing.
Must comply with safety restrictions on contact lenses around certain chemicals and facial hair that could prevent proper respirator fit.
Must be available for 24-hour emergency callbacks and varying hours, overtime, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

Lead and participate in installation, maintenance, repair, and modification of water distribution infrastructure, including mains, valves, hydrants, meters, and service connections.
Oversee meter replacements and ensure proper installation and functionality.
Manage purchasing activities to ensure timely procurement of materials and supplies.
Supervise and coordinate the repair crew to support efficient field operations.
Accurately log work orders in system databases for workflow and reporting.
Use computer systems and software for record keeping, data analysis, and operations support.
Train and instruct crew members, ensure their work is correct, and maintain operational and safety standards.
Maintain compliance with Texas state regulations and industry guidelines for water distribution.
Communicate with customers about leaks, repairs, and scheduled water shut-offs.
Serve as acting supervisor when required, including overseeing timecard review, approval and submission, work orders, and project scheduling.
Maintain assigned vehicles and equipment through regular servicing and safety checks.
Participate in District safety meetings and comply with health and safety protocols.
Provide rotating on-call service, including after-hours, weekends, and holidays.
Respond to emergencies and perform essential services during disaster recovery efforts.
Perform other related duties as assigned.