Collection & Distribution Operator Trainee

Pueblo West Metropolitan District; Pueblo West (CO); On-site; USD 52,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Pueblo West Metropolitan District is seeking a capable technician to assist in the operation, maintenance, and repair of its water collection and distribution system. The role involves locating lines, repairing mains, reading meters, and operating equipment such as skid steers and vac trucks, all within strict safety and SOP guidelines.

The position requires a high school diploma or GED, a valid Colorado Class R license, and a willingness to obtain additional certifications over time.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Knowledge of health and safety standards in water distribution.
• Active Colorado Class R driver’s license required/maintained.

Responsibilities

• Locates collection and distribution lines.
• Performs repair/ replacement of damaged water mains and lines.
• Operates equipment (skid steer, loader, backhoe, vac truck) safely.
• Maintains and repairs water and wastewater infrastructure per SOPs.

Skills

Operate equipment safely

Communication with public

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

PowerPoint

G-Suite

Asset management program

Job description

Applications will be accepted online from October 6, 2026 until 11pm on October 20, 2026 at the website address https://pueblowestmetro.us/172/Job-OpportunitiesFirst review of applications will happen by October 21st.Please note: Incomplete applications cannot be considered. You will know you have completed the application when it has requested your signature.Job SummaryUnder the supervision of the Chief Collection and Distribution Operators, assists in the operation, maintenance, and repair of the collection and distribution systems.Work involves tests, installs, repairs, and replacement of fire hydrants and water valves. Reads, repairs and replaces meters as required. Duties include performing general collection and distribution maintenance, equipment maintenance and repair. Employee follows instructions closely referring deviations in the work to others. Work is closely controlled due to the nature of the equipment that must be operated in accordance with prescribed procedures.Essential Job FunctionsReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to the following:Locates collection and distribution lines.Performs repair and/or replacement of damaged water mains or waterlines.Performs repair and/or replacement of damaged water and wastewater infrastructure in accordance with SOPs.Operates equipment related to the department, to include skid steer, loader, backhoe, and vac truck.All work must be in compliance with applicable policies, rules, regulations and laws.Advocates health and safety in the workplace.Other DutiesMaintain and promote excellent relations and communications with co-workers, management, and customers.Performs related duties as assignedKnowledgeKnowledge of principles, practices, materials and equipment used in Collection & DistributionKnowledge of the established safety and industry guidelines for the tools, equipment and materials used in Collection and Distribution operations.Computer skills to include the ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and G-suite as well as an asset management program.Knowledge of current principles and practices applicable to assigned areas of responsibility; local, state and federal laws and regulations related to assigned functions.SkillsSkill in using common tools, equipment and materials of the trade.AbilitiesAbility to operate equipment in a safe manner.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with district staff.Ability to communicate with the public, to speak clearly and concisely.Ability to diagnose and repair malfunctions.Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be considered.)Required Education/Certifications RequiredHigh School Diploma or GED.Must have and maintain a valid Colorado Class “R” driver’s license.Preferred Education/Certifications RequiredMust have and maintain a valid Colorado Class “A” CDL with an “N” (Tank Vehicles) or “X” (Tanker & Hazardous Materials) endorsement, or the ability to obtain a Colorado Class “A” CDL within the ninety (90) days from date of hire or provisional period (must be able to take driving portion of CDL within 30 days of obtaining permit). License can have no restrictions that would prohibit the operation of District equipment.Must obtain and maintain a State Certification for class “1” Collection and a class “1” Distribution within 1 year.The Technician will be expected to advance in certifications including, “2’s”, “3’s” and “4’s” in Collection and Distribution throughout employment. The higher the certification achieved the more operational responsibility will be given to the employee.Position Type/Expected Hours of WorkRegular organizational business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Actual work schedule must be flexible to balance organizational needs outside of normal business schedule. Work is subject to recurring deadlines, interruptions, and being on-call.Special RequirementsMust provide own safety footwear.Must be available by telephone or other communication device for rotating on-call basis.Must abide by current Colorado Regulation Number 100-Water and Wastewater Facility Operators Certification Requirements.Must abide by the current Colorado Certified Water Professional Code of Conduct.Adapt to changing situations and processes.Physical DemandsFrequently requires heavy lifting, reaching, stooping, bending, crawling, crouching and climbing, field work requires walking over uneven or rough terrain.Work may require occasional exposure to hazards; exposure to dirt and soil; temperature extremes and unusual environmental conditions. Subject to call back in emergencies. Use fingers to operate computer or typewriter keyboards, hand tools, mechanical tools and devices. Appropriate professional interaction with others and in various sized groups and at various settings.Unusual DemandsWorker is required to provide assistance during call backs and emergencies, subject to work hazards and unpleasant conditions, occasionally works unusual hours, weekend and holidays, occasional exposure to inclement weather, occasionally required to work beyond normally secluded work hours. Employee may be required to participate in a standby or on call duty as necessary.This position is a “safety-sensitive” position and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.Pueblo West Metropolitan District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.