Water Distribution Operator Trainee

City of Minneapolis•Minneapolis, MN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position with no prior experience necessary. Under supervision, the trainee performs manual and semi-skilled work maintaining the City of Minneapolis water distribution system and receives support and training toward obtaining a Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate. After successfully completing the trainee program and obtaining the certification, trainees will be promoted to Water Distribution Operator. The City provides the required certification training. The role involves learning how the water distribution system operates and how to maintain, repair, and disinfect its components. Trainees work with crew members in the field, operate and learn to use work vehicles, specialized equipment, hand and power tools, and water-distribution technology. Work takes place outdoors in all weather conditions and may include shift work, occasional weekend duty, or emergency call-backs for water-main repairs. The position is represented by Water AFSCME Maintenance (CAW).

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education in a highly related field and experience.
At least 18 years of age by December 1, 2026.
Valid driver's license; proof must be presented at the Workplace Simulation Test and at hire.
Obtain a State of Minnesota Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate within 18 months of hire as a condition of continued employment.
Mechanical aptitude.
Ability to learn and perform procedures and practices used in the repair and maintenance of water maintenance and distribution systems.
Ability to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets.
Good interpersonal communication skills with residents from diverse communities.
Ability to anticipate tools and materials needed for basic tasks.
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
Ability to perform manual labor in all weather conditions.
Ability to climb ladders, kneel, crouch, bend, twist, stoop, and enter confined spaces.
Ability to push, pull, lift, carry, and maneuver heavy items weighing up to 100 pounds.
Ability to work in excavations with water-main pipe and to stand, walk, and maneuver on rough, uneven surfaces.
Ability to pass a pre-employment medical examination, including respiratory, back, and hearing screenings, and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
May be required to comply with the OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard, including maintaining a clean-shaven face for proper respirator fit.
No prior experience is required.

Nice To Haves

Related experience is desirable.

Responsibilities

Learn the City's water distribution system and practices for operating, maintaining, repairing, and disinfecting system components.
Learn to use water distribution technology tools, including ARC GIS, Enquesta, Star Programmer, and Sono Phone.
Learn about varying soil profiles and erosion control.
Under direct supervision, turn water service off and on for plumbing repairs, meter issues, or non-payment of City utility bills.
Learn to safely operate crew trucks, tapping machines, concrete saws, valve machines, jackhammers, pipe cutters, and other hand, hydraulic, pneumatic, and power equipment.
Perform manual labor in excavations using appropriate tools and equipment.
Assist with locating and marking buried water infrastructure in accordance with Gopher State One Call requirements.
Work with assigned crew members to troubleshoot issues and investigate leaks to resolve water-service concerns.
Assist with disinfecting water mains after work is complete.
As training progresses, assist with the operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of water distribution components, including hydrants, valves, manholes, and water mains, to American Water Works Association standards.
As training progresses, assist with installation, troubleshooting, testing, repair, and replacement of water meters and automated meter-reading system devices.
Actively pursue the State of Minnesota Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate and obtain it within 18 months of hire.
Learn to use mobile computers proficiently to complete work orders within six months of hire.