Utility Systems Operator (USO) III Liquid Waste

Metro Vancouver; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 56,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Metro Vancouver is seeking a Utility Systems Operator III for the Liquid Waste Services. The role leads wastewater collection and drainage crews, oversees maintenance, inspections, and emergency responses across the region, ensuring safe, compliant operation.

The successful candidate will possess EOCP Level III certification, strong supervisory abilities, and experience in wastewater systems. A Class 5 driver’s license and shift/on-call flexibility are expected for this dynamic, field-based role.

Qualifications

• EOCP III certification for wastewater collections is required.
• Strong leadership and supervision skills are essential.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Experience in wastewater collection system operations is required.
• Familiarity with safety policies and procedures is important.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor wastewater collection and drainage facilities.
• Lead crews, coordinate maintenance and emergency responses.
• Review inspections and propose system improvements.
• Ensure compliance with MV safety policies and WorkSafe BC regulations.
• Maintain operating records and prepare reports.
• Train and supervise staff and coordinate with contractors.

Skills

EOCP III

Team leadership

Safety culture

Communication

Supervision

Education

Grade 12 or equivalent

EOCP Level III Wastewater Collections

Class 5 Driver’s License

Tools

Engineering drawings

Job description

Utility Systems Operator (USO) III Liquid Waste

Position Status: Full-Time Regular Department: Liquid Waste Services Employee Group: GVRDEU Location: Production Way Operations Centre, Burnaby Salary Range/ Wage Rate: $39.62 hourly plus 6.25% deferred compensation (2024 wage rates) This role receives an additional 6.25% deferred compensation on hours worked. The additional 6.25% can be taken as compensation or time off.

Our Liquid Waste Services Department is seeking a Utility Systems Operator III (USO III) who will oversee the day-to-day operations of Metro Vancouver’s wastewater collection system and lead high-performing utility operations crews responsible for delivering essential wastewater services across the region.

In this role, you will provide leadership and direction to Sewer & Drainage Operations crews engaged in the operation, maintenance, inspection, and emergency response activities for critical infrastructure, including sewer systems, pump stations, wastewater detention tanks, and odour control facilities. You will coordinate scheduled maintenance programs and emergency callouts, ensuring the wastewater system operates safely, effectively, and efficiently.

You are: EOCP level III, you will lead complex construction, maintenance, and emergency response projects, coordinate resources, and work closely with contractors, external agencies, and the public. You will be responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, protecting public health, promoting operational excellence, and fostering a strong safety culture. This position is ideal for an experienced utility professional who excels at leading teams, mentoring staff, making sound operational decisions, and delivering successful outcomes in a dynamic field environment.

This role:

• Operates, monitors and maintains the collection and drainage system facilities including pump stations, dam(s), sanitary/storm sewers, culverts, watercourses, control chambers, manholes, grit chambers, flow meters, flow control devices, debris catchers/grills, emergency generators, and odour control equipment.
• Carries out inspections to ensure efficient operation and safety of facilities, maintenance of access roads and to prevent encroachments onto easements.
• Inspects, troubleshoots and rectifies operational problems. Provides suggestions for system improvements.
• Carries out preventive and corrective maintenance tasks following established policies and procedures.
• Repairs facilities and maintains equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, instruments, etc.
• Performs system inspections, sanitary/storm sewer cleaning, alterations, lubrications, etc.
• Performs general repairs, housekeeping, painting, etc.
• Performs maintenance tasks including but not limited to: sanitary/storm sewer inspection, debris catcher/grill cleaning, valve maintenance, brush cutting/vegetation management, gravel, debris and windfall removal, slope, and bank stability enhancements, and beaver dam removal.
• Operates power tools, mowers, chain saws, jackhammers, vehicles and equipment to fulfill the needs of the position.
• Performs construction duties such as sanitary/storm sewer repairs, the raising and rebuilding of manholes and chambers, sanitary/storm sewer connections, road building and water course rehabilitation works.
• Ensures all work carried out adheres to and is in compliance with all applicable policies/procedures, including all WorkSafe and MV safety policies/procedures. Advises superiors of situations requiring review.
• Maintains operating records, submits work progress, time reporting, operations and investigative reports as required.
• Assists in the preparation of work schedules, estimates and project work as directed.
• Provides direction and control of other staff as required, to ensure the work is carried out in a safe efficient manner.
• Trains and supervises subordinates in standard operations and maintenance practices and procedures.
• May be called upon to perform any or all of the duties of the USO I or USO II.

To be successful, you have:

• Grade 12 education or equivalent (Supplemented by courses in supervision, civil and mechanical technology, computers, electrical, instrumentation, etc.).
• Four (4) years or more experience in wastewater or drainage system operations and maintenance; demonstrated knowledge of in-stream works, erosion/sediment control, bank stabilization.
• BC EOCP Level III Wastewater Collections or equivalent Provincial Certification. The highest EOCP Wastewater Collections Certificate shall be maintained in good standing.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings.
• Considerable knowledge of: process and mechanical equipment; control systems; electrical and instrumentation equipment; sanitary/storm sewer repair and cleaning, and video inspection.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively direct and supervise work of others.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with people expected to be associated with the work.
• Sound knowledge of the occupational hazards, WorkSafe BC regulations, policies and procedures related to the construction and maintenance of MV’s wastewater collection and drainage systems.
• Ability to use computer applications related to the position and duties.
• Physically capable of performing the duties of the position and willingness and ability to work shift work and/or stand-by/on call basis as required.
• Willingness and ability to undertake additional training related to the duties of the position.
• Demonstrated initiative and proven ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Valid Class 5 B.C. Driver’s License.

Our Vision:

Metro Vancouver embraces collaboration and innovation in providing sustainable regional services that contribute to a livable and resilient region and a healthy natural environment for current and future generations.

Metro Vancouver employees proudly serve the region and demonstrate the behaviours and attributes of six leadership competencies: Accountability, Adaptability, Building and Nurturing Relationships, Communication, Continuous Learning, and Strategic Thinking and Action.

At Metro Vancouver, we are committed to cultivating a diverse, safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment for all.

We strive to attract and retain a talented, diverse workforce that is reflective of the region we serve.