Water System Operator

Fresno Irrigation District•Fresno, CA

2d•$28 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Water System Operator regulates the flow and distribution of irrigation water to growers’ canals and ditches downstream, handles grower complaints and problems, inspects for leaks and spills, repairs small leaks, assists with larger leaks and bank breaches, and performs related work. The position may be assigned to a day or night shift. Day-shift operators serve a smaller geographical area and work closely with customers; night-shift operators cover a larger area and spend more time inspecting water flow, levels, leaks, and breaks. Employees may perform duties at a lower classification when work is insufficient, may be assigned to a higher level for training, and during the non-water season are assigned to the Construction and Maintenance Department or another District division or department. The position reports to the Water Supervisor and is considered safety-sensitive, with inclusion in a random drug-screening program. The role may involve varied construction, repair, and maintenance duties for irrigation canals, pipelines, and structures. A temporary assignment to a pipeline crew may require fit-testing, remaining clean-shaven to ensure a respirator seal, and using a respirator when required. The work is primarily outdoors and may involve variable shifts and overtime during the irrigation season.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, or a combination of education and experience likely to provide the necessary knowledge and abilities.
Experience working on a farm, such as irrigating crops or related activities, and experience using hand tools and small power tools.
Successfully complete Core Values training; for WSO II and WSO III, consistently demonstrate FID Core Values in the workplace.
WSO II qualification: at least six years working for the District as a WSO I or Construction Maintenance Worker.
WSO III qualification: at least seven continuous years working for the District; satisfactory full-season experience on at least two runs, including a tail-end, night, or specialized-operations run; and demonstrated proficiency in at least four specialized construction or maintenance skills. Required skills may include pipeline repair or installation, gate repair, canal lining repair or installation, canal structure modification or installation, sloping, brushing, spray-rig operation, new construction, heavy-equipment operation, crew leadership, a special license, or other specialized work. District-required education or certification must also be completed.
A valid California Class C driver’s license may be required at appointment; driving is an essential function. Employees must maintain a qualifying driving record, free of multiple or serious traffic violations or accidents for at least two years.
Knowledge of safe work practices; basic math, reading, and writing; computers and job-related software; basic hydraulics and water flow; simple mechanical principles; water gates, diversions, and turnouts; the District distribution system; water-distribution rules and regulations; water banking; crops and crop surveys; confined spaces; methods of balancing water flow; and hand and small power tools.
Ability to work and drive; maintain accurate and legible records; follow water schedules; read gauges and meters; convert GPM to CFS and acre-feet; evaluate water flow and levels; recognize shortages, overages, canal breaks, leaks, and unsafe conditions; communicate and coordinate with coworkers and customers; use a computer, laptop, and tablet; resolve customer problems and water theft; repair small leaks and breaks; prioritize responses to major breaks; use hand and light power tools; build cooperative working relationships; and adjust duties to weather conditions and work requirements.
Meet the physical and mental demands of the position, with reasonable accommodation where applicable, including operating District vehicles and equipment; pushing, pulling, reaching, and lifting equipment and parts weighing up to 50 pounds; stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and climbing; and maintaining sufficient hearing, vision, and hand-eye coordination to operate controls and remain aware during work.
Follow District safety requirements, policies, and procedures; report to work as scheduled; complete assigned tasks to the best of one’s ability with attention to quality and timeliness; cooperate with coworkers; and represent the District professionally.

Responsibilities

Regulate water flow and distribution to growers’ canals and ditches and ensure proper delivery within an assigned area.
Work with customers to coordinate water delivery and address problems or complaints; refer matters beyond the operator’s authority to a supervisor.
Adjust water systems, headgates, turn-offs, and diversions to maintain proper flows and water levels in canals, ditches, and ponding basins.
Inspect and maintain the water distribution system, including checking for leaks, spills, breaks, and obstructions.
Repair small leaks and breaks and assist with closing or addressing larger breaks, leaks, and bank breaches.
Record meter readings and other required daily readings, measure water deliveries, and use a tablet for District-related duties.
Keep the distribution system clear of obstructions, clean trash racks, and schedule trash removal.
Contact customers about water delivery timing and use of aquatic herbicides in the system; ensure customers do not exceed their allocations.
Notify supervisors about water-supply problems and notify maintenance about large leaks or other maintenance needs.
Prepare and prioritize work orders.
Report encroachments, water theft, and homeless encampments.
Respond to emergency calls during the assigned shift.
Perform construction, repair, and maintenance work on irrigation canals, pipelines, and structures.
Train, orient, mentor, and assist employees of lower-level classifications.
Perform other related duties as assigned.