Utilities Operator I

City of Altoona•Altoona, IA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Utility Supervisor, performs and participates in semi-skilled work related to the operations and maintenance of Municipal Utilities facilities, including water production, water distribution system, and sewer collection system. This role involves assisting with operations, maintenance, and repairs, recording data, recognizing potential problems, assisting the public, performing routine maintenance and minor repairs, operating department equipment, responding to emergencies, and performing utility locating.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent GED.
Three (3) years of combined experience in the operation and maintenance of a water distribution system, a sewer collection system, or a water treatment facility; OR possess an equivalent amount of education and experience recognized by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Ability to work independently with intermittent direct supervision.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Effective interpersonal communication and listening skills, including tact, diplomacy, and professionalism when dealing with the public and staff.
Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
Problem-solving ability appropriate to the work activities.
Ability to perform routine mathematical computations accurately.
Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods, often in inclement weather, confined spaces, and/or heights.
Perform job functions adhering to safety guidelines and policies.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal requirements for water treatment, water distribution, waste water collections, and storm water control.
Knowledge of water treatment, water distribution, waste water collections, and storm water processes and facilities used by the utility.
Valid Iowa Driver’s license.
Required to obtain a Commercial Driver’s license within six (6) months of employment.
Required to possess a Grade 1 operator’s certificate issued by the State of Iowa in Water Treatment, Water Distribution, and Waste Water within the first year of employment.
Within the first three (3) months of employment with the city, establish residency within an area which takes forty-five (45) minutes or less to drive to the department maintenance facility.
Successful applicant will be required to complete a background check and pass a medical examination which includes a drug and alcohol screening prior to beginning work.

Responsibilities

Assist other personnel in the operation, maintenance, and repairs of Municipal Utilities facilities, water distribution system, and sewer collection system.
Record readings from meters, gauges, lab data, and related controls and equipment to maintain proper pumping rates, flows, and treatment processes.
Recognize and evaluate potential operational or mechanical problems and advise operational staff and supervisor.
Assist the public with complaints, inquiries, and problems, taking appropriate actions and advising the Utility Supervisor or Public Utilities Director when needed.
Complete routine maintenance and minor repairs of storm sewers, water mains, sanitary sewers, water treatment plants, waste water lift stations, pump stations, vehicles, and equipment, including general cleaning.
Assist with the operation of department equipment, such as JetVac, camera van, and valve and hydrant exercise equipment.
Respond to water main breaks, water and sewer service calls, and other emergencies as directed.
Perform utility locating of all city-owned infrastructures, including water, sewer, storm sewer, fiber, and traffic signals.
Perform basic field tests and obtain various water samples.
Assist other city departments as directed.
May perform other duties as assigned.