Hydro Operator - Ralston Reservoir

Denver Water; Golden (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Denver Water is seeking qualified personnel to operate and maintain the safe storage and delivery of raw water and to manage hydroelectric turbine operations. The role includes maintaining canals, dams, valves, reservoirs, and associated structures while recording vital data and coordinating with public agencies.

The candidate will hold or obtain required certifications within specified timeframes and comply with safety protocols.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of related work experience.
• Equivalent combination of certifications, education, or experience serving the required skills, knowledge and abilities for the position.
• Licenses, Registration, and Certifications listed below are required within the stated timeframes.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the safe storage and delivery of raw water.
• Maintain ditches, canals, dams, conduits, reservoirs, culverts, and valves.
• Perform water changes through operation of valves and hydroelectric turbines.
• Record reservoir elevations, stream flow readings, and weather data.
• Maintain liaison with visitors and engage with local agencies regarding recreational use.

Skills

4+ years experience related

Education

Hydroelectric Certification

Colorado Water Distribution Class 1 Certificate

FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, 800

Class ‘R’ Colorado driver’s license

Class ‘B’ Colorado Commercial Driver’s License

Possible Class ‘A’ CDL

Job description

Minimum 4 years of related work experience.

Any equivalent combination of certifications, education, or experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities for the position.

Licenses, Registration, and Certifications

Hydroelectric Certification required within 12 months of hire.

Colorado Water Distribution Class 1 Certificate required within 12 months of appointment.

FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 within 18 months of hire.

Must be able to possess and maintain a valid Class ‘R’ Colorado driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record at time of hire.

Must possess a valid Class ‘B’ Colorado Commercial Driver’s license within 12 months of appointment. May be required to possess a valid Class ‘A’ Colorado Commercials Driver’s License within 12 months of appointment.

Safety Sensitive Statement

This is a safety sensitive job where an employee’s direct action/inaction may lead to immediate harm to self, team, or the public and/or will have significant risk to the mission of Denver Water. To promote the safety, employees in this job must possess English proficiency adequate to effectively communicate with customers and coworkers, including proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Respiratory Statement

This position is subject to respiratory protection testing as directed per Denver Water Physician.

An offer of employment may be contingent upon satisfactory results of a post-offer drug test and alcohol. Denver Water tests for the following: amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). A strength test may also be conducted due to the physical requirements of the position. This strength test may include lifting, pushing, and pulling various amounts of weight as well as crouching, squatting, and lifting one’s own body weight from various positions. If the position is deemed safety-sensitive or requires a CDL, you will be placed on the random drug and alcohol testing list, which means you may be tested if your name is selected while employed at Denver Water.

Applicants for employment at Denver Water must be authorized to work in the U.S. Denver Water will not sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Job Description

Job Description

Working for Denver Water offers a rewarding and comprehensive employment experience marked by exceptional benefits and a strong organizational culture. Employees enjoy a robust 401(k) plan with employer contributions, a secure pension fund to support long-term financial well-being, and high-quality benefits that include a generous PTO package as well as medical, dental, and vision coverage.

At the heart of Denver Water’s workplace are its core values: vision, integrity, passion, excellence, and respect. These principles guide every aspect of the organization, fostering a collaborative and purpose-driven environment where employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the community and the future of water sustainability.

Position Summary

Under general supervision, operate and maintain the safe storage and delivery of raw water. Maintain ditches, canals, dams, conduits, reservoirs, culverts, and valves. Perform water changes through operation of valves and hydroelectric turbines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Take and record a variety of information which include reservoir elevations, stream flow readings and weather data.
• Maintain patrol of departmental property to prevent vandalism, trespassing, and fires. Cooperate with various local public and private agencies.
• Maintain liaison with visitors to department facilities and work with local agencies concerning recreational opportunities at these facilities.
• Operate and maintain hydro power plant operations. Operate and maintain dams, valve houses, intakes, canals, ditches, conduits, flumes, and associated properties.
• Provide recordkeeping, documentation, reporting, and data entry from internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure safe working conditions and practices through inspection.
• Assist with public relations and recreation activities including tours and orientations.
• Must be able to perform safety sensitive functions.
• Perform related work as required.

Contact Us

Denver Water is committed to creating a diverse work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.

Applications will be accepted until a sufficient number is received. Denver Water reserves the right to either close or extend a posting.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited on all Denver Water property.

Denver Water is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to building a culturally diverse workforce. We encourage applications from women, People of Color, veterans, and people with disabilities.