Public Works Utility Operator

City of Dawson; Dawson City; On-site; CAD 72,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Dawson is seeking a motivated Utility Operator to maintain Dawson's water distribution and wastewater systems. You will perform routine operation, inspection, and maintenance, including monitoring facilities, responding to alarms, and coordinating with partners.

This union role requires EOCP Level 2 Certification, a Class 5 Yukon Driver's License, and a safety-minded, dependable attitude. After-hours standby rotation is mandatory, with salary in the posted range.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; trades training or post-secondary education is an asset.
• EOCP Certification in Water Treatment, Water Distribution, and Waste Water Collection (Level 2) is required.
• Valid Class 5 Yukon Driver's License is required.
• Familiarity with mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems; ability to troubleshoot in the field.
• Safety certifications such as First Aid, Chlorine Handling, Confined Space, Fall Protection are preferred (or obtainable).

Responsibilities

• Monitor system performance and perform daily checks and maintenance on water and wastewater infrastructure and equipment.
• Complete water sampling, testing and documentation to support compliance.
• Respond to system alarms and emergencies, including after-hours standby coverage.
• Assist with troubleshooting and repairs across mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components.
• Coordinate with contractors during repair or upgrade work and provide basic field support.
• Interpret technical drawings to support maintenance and system planning tasks.
• Maintain accurate records and logs in a timely manner.
• Ensure all work is performed safely with PPE and established safety protocols.

Skills

Dependable

Safety-focused

Outdoor work

Communication

Education

High school diploma

EOCP Level 2 Certification

Class 5 Yukon Driver's License

Job description

The City of Dawson is seeking a motivated, safety-minded individual to join our Public Works team as a Utility Operator. This position plays a key role in maintaining critical municipal infrastructure, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of Dawson's water and wastewater systems.

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Public Works Utility Supervisor, the Utility Operator performs routine operation, inspection, and maintenance of the City's water distribution and wastewater collection systems. This includes facilities such as reservoirs, wells, lift stations, hydrants, and related equipment. The role involves troubleshooting, responding to emergencies, maintaining records, and ensuring safe work practices at all times. Participation in the after-hours standby rotation is mandatory.

What You'll Do

Key duties include monitoring system performance, completing scheduled checks and maintenance tasks, and taking appropriate action when issues arise. You will also support planning and improvement work through technical assistance and coordination with internal and external partners.

• Perform daily checks and routine maintenance on water and wastewater infrastructure, equipment, and related systems.
• Complete water sampling, testing, and documentation to support operational targets and compliance requirements.
• Respond to system alarms and emergencies, including after-hours stand-by coverage, in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist with troubleshooting and repairs across mechanical, electrical, and plumbing-related components.
• Coordinate with contractors and consultants during repair or upgrade work, including basic field support and communication.
• Interpret technical drawings and diagrams to support maintenance activities and assist with system planning tasks.
• Maintain accurate records and complete required logs, reports, and documentation in a timely manner.
• Ensure all work is performed safely, using required PPE and following established safety protocols at all times.
• Support other Public Works functions as needed to meet service demands.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a candidate who is dependable, safety-focused, and comfortable working outdoors and in variable conditions. You should be able to learn system processes quickly, think clearly under pressure during alarms or emergencies, and communicate professionally with coworkers and the public.

• High school diploma required; trades training or post-secondary education is an asset.
• EOCP Certification in Water Treatment, Water Distribution, and Waste Water Collection (Level 2) is required.
• Valid Class 5 Yukon Driver's License.
• Proven familiarity with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, with the ability to troubleshoot in the field.
• Comfortable working in confined spaces, extreme cold, and other challenging environmental conditions.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact respectfully and effectively with the public.
• First Aid, Chlorine Handling, Confined Space, and Fall Protection certifications are preferred (or the ability to obtain them as required).

This role requires a professional attitude toward safety, documentation, and reliable on-call readiness during the after-hours standby rotation.

Salary, Benefits & Employment Terms

This is a Union position. Salary and benefits are provided in accordance with the Collective Agreement. The position is classified as Level 4 with a salary range of $72,016-$86,421 plus benefits.

Employment is conditional upon maintaining a valid Class 5 Yukon Driver's License and providing a clear criminal reference check.

First consideration will be given to applications received before 2:00 p.m., Tuesday December 1, 2026. This posting will remain open until filled. We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.