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 Utility Operator to join our Public Works Department. This role focuses on operating, inspecting and maintaining the City’s water distribution and wastewater collection systems to ensure safe, reliable infrastructure in line with standards.

Qualifications include a High School diploma, EOCP certification (or equivalent) and a valid Yukon Class 5 licence. Training in safety and records is emphasized, with after-hours standby and teamwork expected.

Qualifications

• High School diploma is required.
• EOCP certification or combination of relevant certification/education with the ability to obtain Level 2 within timeframe.
• Valid Class 5 Yukon Driver’s Licence.
• Experience with mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
• Ability to work safely in confined spaces and extreme cold/outdoor conditions.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate operational records.
• Ability to interact professionally with coworkers, contractors and the public.

Responsibilities

• Operate, inspect and maintain water distribution and wastewater collection systems.
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of water/wastewater infrastructure.
• Perform water sampling, testing and maintain operational records.
• Monitor systems and respond to alarms and emergencies.
• Participate in after-hours standby rotation.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical and plumbing issues.
• Coordinate with contractors/consultants during repairs and upgrades.
• Read and interpret technical drawings and assist with system planning.

Education

High School diploma

EOCP certification in Water Treatment, Water Distribution and/or Wastewater Collection

Class 5 Yukon Driver’s Licence

Job description

The City of Dawson is seeking a Utility Operator to join our Public Works Department.

Reporting to the Public Works Utility Supervisor, the Utility Operator is responsible for the operation, inspection and maintenance of the City’s water distribution and wastewater collection systems. This position plays an important role in ensuring Dawson’s water and wastewater infrastructure operates safely, reliably and in accordance with applicable standards.

What You'll Do

The Utility Operator’s responsibilities include:

• Conducting routine inspections and maintenance of water and wastewater infrastructure, including reservoirs, wells, lift stations, hydrants and related equipment;
• Performing water sampling, testing and maintaining required operational records;
• Monitoring municipal water and wastewater systems and responding to system alarms and emergencies;
• Participating in the mandatory after-hours standby rotation;
• Troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other system issues;
• Coordinating with contractors and consultants during system repairs, maintenance and upgrades;
• Reading and interpreting technical drawings and assisting with system planning;
• Following established safety procedures and ensuring appropriate safety equipment is used;
• Maintaining equipment, facilities and work areas in a safe and orderly condition; and
• Supporting other Public Works operations as required.

What We're Looking For

Applicants should have:

• A High School diploma;
• EOCP certification in Water Treatment, Water Distribution and/or Wastewater Collection, or a combination of relevant certification, education and experience with the ability to obtain the required Level 2 certifications within an established timeframe;
• A valid Class 5 Yukon Driver’s Licence;
• Knowledge and experience working with mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems;
• The ability to safely work in confined spaces, extreme cold and variable outdoor conditions;
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills;
• Good written and verbal communication skills;
• The ability to maintain accurate operational records; and
• The ability to interact professionally with coworkers, contractors and members of the public.

Trades training or related post-secondary education would be considered an asset. First Aid, Chlorine Handling, Confined Space and Fall Protection certifications would also be considered assets.

Conditions of Employment

The successful applicant must:

• Maintain a valid Class 5 Yukon Driver’s Licence;
• Provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check; and
• Participate in the after-hours standby rotation.

A job description is available on request.

Salary & Benefits

This is a full-time, unionized position under the Collective Agreement between the Yukon Employees' Union and the City of Dawson, with a 2026 annual salary range of $72,016 to $86,421, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Closing Date

This posting will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to applications received by 2pm on August 31, 2026.

The City of Dawson thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those applicants who qualify for an interview may be contacted.

To learn more about our community and what we have to offer, please visit the City of Dawson website. www.cityofdawson.ca