Water Distribution or Water Treatment Plant Operator II

NW Natural•Coupeville, WA

12d•$31 - $42•Onsite

About The Position

The Water Operator II performs advanced operation, maintenance, and repair work on water systems and responds to public inquiries and service requests as needed. This advanced-level role applies strong technical expertise to complex assignments, serves as a technical resource for the team, and frequently provides coordination, guidance, and project-level oversight on specialized work. The position has no formal supervisory responsibility but may lead work activities on assigned projects. Additional assignments may be given as needed 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.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Three or more years of progressively responsible water utility experience.
Strong working knowledge of water system operations, troubleshooting, and safety practices.
Valid driver’s license, or obtain one within 90 days if out-of-state; required certifications/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 designated service areas.
Advanced water utility certification demonstrating technical expertise in water distribution and/or treatment operations, such as Water Distribution Manager Level II (WDM2) or Water Treatment Plant Operator Level II (WTPO2).
Must 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 the 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 coordination, guidance, and project-level oversight on specialized work and lead work activities on assigned projects as needed.
Respond to public inquiries and service requests as needed.