Water Distribution or Water Treatment Plant Operator I

NW Natural•Coupeville, WA

12d•$28 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The Water Operator I performs operation, maintenance, and repair work for water systems and responds to public inquiries and service requests as needed. This is a fully trained operator role that independently performs standard operational and maintenance tasks, participates in more complex repairs and troubleshooting, and may provide task-level guidance to Water Operations Technicians. The position has no formal supervisory responsibility, but may lead work activities on assigned projects. Additional assignments may be given to support operational needs. Qualified applicants must be able to respond within two hours to their designated service areas. The role is based in Coupeville, Washington, and is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position. Work ranges from outdoor conditions to indoor duties, with year-round outdoor work in all weather. Work may involve hazardous materials, confined spaces, electrical components, and heavy equipment. The field environment is usually moderately noisy, with higher noise levels when using hand-held power equipment. Weekend or variable shifts and participation in a 24-hour emergency on-call rotation may be required when assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two or more years of relevant water utility or closely related experience.
Demonstrated working knowledge of water distribution systems.
Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 90 days if the applicant has an out-of-state license.
Required certifications and endorsements, and a satisfactory driving record.
Consent to annual Motor Vehicle Records checks and successful completion of a criminal history check.
Ability to safely lift at least 50 pounds, and more with assistance.
Ability to physically accommodate and use respirators and self-contained breathing apparatuses.
Ability to safely access and exit trenches, manholes, lift stations, water reservoirs, and towers.
Ability to work a weekend or variable shift and participate in a 24-hour emergency on-call rotation when assigned.
Ability to respond within two hours to the designated service area.
Advanced water utility certification demonstrating technical expertise in water distribution and/or treatment operations, such as Water Distribution Manager Level I (WDM1) or Water Treatment Plant Operator Level I (WTPO1).
Obtain Washington State Flagger certification card, forklift card, and First Aid and CPR certification within six months of employment.

Responsibilities

Install and repair water mains, fire hydrants, check valves, and water service lines; tap water mains; perform ground excavation; mix, rake, and spread asphalt; and patch or repair excavations.
Inspect, operate, and exercise gate valves to prevent seizures; flush fire hydrants and dead-end water lines to remove sediment; and take water samples for testing.
Locate, identify, and mark distribution system facilities, including valves, fire hydrants, and blow-offs.
Locate and identify leaks.
Install, relocate, and adjust meter boxes and valve cans; install and replace water meters.
Perform repair and maintenance on water and wastewater facilities, including structures and grounds.
Operate service trucks; routinely inspect and perform minor maintenance on assigned vehicles; remove and replace defective parts; and assist with transporting vehicles to repair shops.
Follow NW Natural Water Services policies, procedures, and safety regulations, including grooming and uniform requirements.
Communicate effectively in writing and verbally with management and other operators at the technical level required for the position.
Participate in specialized training for safe handling of hazardous materials and confined-space entry.
Participate in weekly team meetings.
Work effectively as part of a team and independently, with or without direct supervision.
Provide task-level guidance to Water Operations Technicians when needed and lead work activities on assigned projects.