Water Distribution Operator I (Oit)

City of Walla Walla•Service Center, WA
•Onsite

About The Position

Performs apprentice operator duties of Group A, Class 3 Water Distribution System. Executes a variety of responsibilities in support of the maintenance, repair and construction of the City’s water system. Assists work crews with departmental assignments such as meter maintenance and installation, fixing leaks, flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance. Includes the performance of manual labor. Supervision is provided by the Water Distribution Supervisor; general direction and oversight are provided by the Operator III and Lead Operator positions.

Requirements

  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • State of Washington Department of Health Water Distribution Manager Level 1 OIT or the ability to obtain within 12 months.
  • Water Distribution Manager Level 2 OIT certification or the ability to obtain within 36 months.
  • Valid state driver’s license and proof of good driving record
  • State Class A CDL with air brakes and tanker endorsement or the ability to obtain within 12 months.
  • Ability to operate and maintain hand tools, power tools and a variety of specialized equipment.
  • Utilize a variety of office equipment including desktop computers, copiers, scanners, and phones; utilize mobile devices including laptop computers and tablets for the purpose of asset management and job tracking.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and standard safe work precautions; safety measures related to excavation; precautions related to work on or near a traffic right-of-way.
  • Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations; ability to follow policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrate enthusiasm for continuous improvement and attentiveness to detail.
  • Able to make use of technical and analytical skills; able to learn quickly.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience in the maintenance and repair of water or related systems and components.
  • Bilingual in Spanish.

Responsibilities

  • Perform support and assistance for heavy equipment operation; assist and participate in underground excavation, including confined space entry.
  • Operates heavy equipment such as dump trucks and wheel loaders; and may receive training or operate backhoe and excavation equipment.
  • Participate in responsibilities related to system maintenance including line flushing, fire hydrant installation and repair.
  • Assist with meter installations including large meter installations; assist with new and existing service assignments including meter repairs and replacements.
  • Perform duties for general water distribution operation involving water pumps ranging from hand pumps to industrial gas-powered units, valve exercising equipment, metal detectors and atmospheric testers.
  • Collect, report and process utility data using electronic work order software in combination with GIS mapping.
  • Ensure the adherence to safe work practices and procedures by operations personnel.
  • Respond to public inquiries with tact and courtesy; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.
  • Coordinate and respond to emergency calls for water distribution system operations and repairs.
  • Participate in the inspection of the water distribution system.
  • Respond to water customer inquiries and complaints; respond to service calls for main line breaks, service/meter leaks and system wide pressure and flow problems.
  • May provide back-up services and/or assist other City Departments/Divisions.
  • Demonstrate punctual, regular, and reliable attendance, which is essential for successful job performance.
  • Present a positive, professional image; maintain cooperative and effective working relationships; assure excellent customer service with internal and external customers.
  • Execute assignments, projects and job responsibilities efficiently and within defined timeframes; work independently and effectively with little direction.
  • Demonstrate good judgment and employ critical thinking to execute duties, identify issues, seek solutions, and recommend improvements in support of departmental goals.
  • Provide assistance to staff and higher-level management; participate in resolving operational or interpersonal concerns; participate in training, meetings, and on committees as assigned.
  • Respect the value of diversity in the workplace and the community.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
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