Utilities Systems Operator I, II, III, IV, V

Polk County Board of County Commissioners•Winter Haven, FL

16h•$23 - $52•Onsite

About The Position

The Utilities Division is responsible for public health and safety, as well as safeguarding the environment, by providing crucial safe water and wastewater services. This position is part of the team that provides services necessary for human health, economic stability, and overall societal well-being. At the core of the mission of providing these services includes commitment to providing excellent customer service to our citizens, business partners, regulatory agencies, and other county divisions. The System Operator performs professional, certified, and skilled work in the operation and maintenance of water, sewer, reclaimed water infrastructure systems. Their responsibilities include monitoring, operating and troubleshooting water distribution and sewer systems, and related system equipment to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of potable water and sewer collection services. They make necessary adjustments to the utility infrastructure systems and maintain them in accordance with established procedures and regulatory standards. System Operators also carry out routine mechanical and manual tasks to maintain optimal system performance, support regulatory compliance and document operational data accurately. This role requires technical expertise, sound judgment, and a high level of responsibility to uphold the utilities infrastructure systems reliability. This position plays a key role in ensuring the reliability of essential utility services, regulatory compliance, environmental stewardship, and public health and safety.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license within 30 days of employment.
Knowledge of water and sewer system materials, components, and general care practices
Proficient in using common hand and power tools for utility maintenance and repair
Skilled in identifying, locating, and repairing leaks in water mains, sanitary sewer lines, and system extensions
Familiarity with pipes, fittings, and water distribution parts used in installation and maintenance
Strong understanding of hazards and safety precautions related to water, sewer, and reclaimed water systems
Knowledge of departmental policies, standard operating procedures, and regulatory standards
Experienced in equipment maintenance practices and operation of large machinery and motorized equipment
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, atlases, plans, and technical specifications
Understanding of civil engineering concepts and principles related to water and sewer infrastructure
Ability to interpret complex policies, protocols, and procedures with precision
Knowledge of backflow prevention and testing procedures
Proficient in operating computers and tablets for data entry, reporting, and system monitoring
Ability to perform repairs, maintenance, and construction tasks independently or as part of a team
Physically capable of performing duties in all weather conditions, including lifting over 75 pounds, bending, stooping, sitting, and standing for extended periods
Able to work independently, including weekends and holidays, with minimal supervision
State, Federal, and local laws and regulatory agencies
Evaluating systems, providing quality control, and ensuring compliance
Operator I: Entry Level position, limited experience as a System Operator
Operator II: 1 year experience (2,080 hrs.) and Florida Departmental of Environmental (FDEP) Distribution System Operator “III” License
Operator III: 3 years’ experience (6,240 hrs.) and Florida Departmental of Environmental (FDEP) Distribution System Operator “II” License, (FLHYSMV) Class CDL “A” Required
Operator IV: 5 years’ experience (10,400 hrs.) and Florida Departmental of Environmental (FDEP) Distribution System Operator “I” License, (FLHYSMV) Class CDL “A” Required
Operator V: 5 year’s experience (10,400 hrs.) Florida Water Treatment Plant “A” license required, Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician Certification (CMRT), Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETA) or equivalent certification, Municipal Board of Examiners Inc. of Polk County (Polk MBOE) Journeyman Electrical License, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) CDL “A” license, and/or Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water treatment, Wastewater treatment, Distribution System Operator license accepted.
A comparable amount of related training or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications except for the licensing and certifications.

Responsibilities

Perform daily operational checks and maintenance of water mains, valves, hydrants, meters, and backflow prevention devices.
Install, repair, and maintain water lines, service connections, and extensions.
Conduct wet taps on pressurized mains using saddles, sleeves, and direct taps.
Inspect and test fire hydrants and cross-connection control devices.
Locate underground utilities using GPS (Global Positioning System), GPR (Ground-Penetrating Radar), and GIS (Geographic Information System) systems.
Read and interpret blueprints, record drawings, and system maps.
Install, maintain, and repair wastewater mains, laterals, cleanouts, manholes, and lift stations.
Operate CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) inspection equipment to assess pipeline conditions.
Perform routine cleaning, painting, and maintenance of wastewater infrastructure.
Operate heavy equipment including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, vacuum trucks, jetting machines, and valve exercising tools.
Dig trenches, remove debris, and perform street and sidewalk repairs.
Load, transport, and deliver materials using flatbeds, boom trucks, and other vehicles.
Maintain inventory of water, sewer, and reclaim water parts and supplies.
Requisition stock items, contact vendors, and manage purchase orders.
Track inventory using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) software.
Document maintenance activities using CMMS, SCADA, and county-issued devices.
Maintain accurate logs, service records, and inspection reports.
Use digital tools to support diagnostics, planning, and regulatory compliance.
Respond to service calls, complaints, and inquiries from the public.
Investigate issues and provide timely resolutions.
Maintain professional relationships with coworkers, cross divisional departments, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
Perform other duties as assigned