Pump & Distribution Operator I

City of Caldwell; Caldwell (ID); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Caldwell seeks an entry-level Pump and Distribution Operator to operate and monitor pressurized irrigation pump stations and the potable water system. You will perform routine maintenance, assist with startup/shutdowns, and support hydrant flushing and meter operations.

Work is outdoors under supervision, with shifts including evenings and weekends. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and will pursue Idaho licenses within 6–12 months.

Qualifications

• Graduation from High School or GED is required.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required.
• Class I Water Distribution License (Idaho) within 12 months of hire.
• Class I Water Treatment License (Idaho) within 12 months of hire.
• CDL with Tanker Endorsement within 6 months of hire.
• Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and varying shift hours; on-call rotation.
• Pre-employment background check, physical, and drug testing required.
• Subject to random DOT drug and alcohol testing.

Responsibilities

• Operates and monitors PI pump stations, including starting, stopping, and adjusting pumps.
• Conducts routine inspections of pump stations, reservoirs, and related facilities.
• Assists with seasonal system startup, flushing, and shutdown procedures.
• Performs preventative maintenance tasks on pumps, valves, motors, and electrical components.
• Supports potable water distribution operations, including hydrant flushing, valve operation, and meter support.
• Assists with leak detection and minor repair activities under supervision.
• Collects basic water samples and follows chain-of-custody procedures.
• Monitors operational data and enters logs, forms, or digital records.
• Performs grounds and facility maintenance at PI and potable system sites.
• Communicates with supervisor about progress and issues; suggests improvements.
• Attends meetings, trainings, and reviews to stay current on practices.
• Responds to questions politely and timely.
• Coordinates with others to maximize interdepartmental efficiency.
• Maintains professional relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Participates in mandatory standby rotation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education

High School diploma or GED

Class I Water Distribution License (Idaho)

Class I Water Treatment License (Idaho)

Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

Valid driver’s license

Job description

Applications closing on October 24, 2026, 11:59 PM

• Reference number 202400299
• Job Type Full Time

Description

This position is an entry-level classification in the Pump and Distribution Operator series. The primary function of an employee in this class is to perform routine and semi-skilled tasks in the operation, maintenance, and repair of the city's pressurized irrigation (PI) pump stations and potable water distribution system. Work is performed under the direct supervision of the pump and distribution operator supervisor with limited latitude for independent decision-making. The principal duties of this class are performed in an outdoor environment, which may involve adverse weather conditions, roadway traffic, related hazards, and confined spaces.

Responsibilities

• Operates and monitors PI pump stations, including starting, stopping, and adjusting pumps.
• Conducts routine inspections of pump stations, reservoirs, and related facilities.
• Assists with seasonal system startup, flushing, and shutdown procedures.
• Performs preventative maintenance tasks on pumps, valves, motors, and electrical components.
• Supports potable water distribution operations, including hydrant flushing, valve operation, and meter support.
• Assists with leak detection and minor repair activities under supervision.
• Collects basic water samples and follows chain-of-custody procedures.
• Monitors operational data and enters logs, forms, or digital records.
• Performs grounds and facility maintenance at PI and potable system sites.
• Consistently keeps supervisor and relevant team members informed about work progress, current and potential issues, and proactively suggests new or improved solutions to address challenges.
• Attends approved meetings, conferences, workshops, training sessions, reviews materials to remain current on the principles, practices, and new developments in assigned work areas.
• Responds to questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner.
• Communicates and coordinates regularly with others to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities.
• Respects the opinion of others and maintains a positive and professional working relationship with colleagues, supervisors, and stakeholders.
• Participates in mandatory standby rotation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education, Training, and/or Experience Required:

• Graduation from High School or possession of a GED.

Licenses, Certifications and Other Requirements:

• Possession of a current and valid driver’s license.
• Possession of Class A CDL, No Restrictions with Tanker Endorsement within 6 months of hire.
• Possession of a Class I Water Distribution License issued by the State of Idaho within 12 months of hire.
• Must be able to work evenings, weekends, and varying shift hours; and participate in an on-call rotation.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check, physical, and drug testing to include prescription medications.
• Subject to random DOT drug and alcohol testing.

Preferred Qualifications (not required):

• Experience in irrigation or water utility operations.
• Class I Water Treatment License issued by the State of Idaho.
• Class I Water Distribution License issued by the State of Idaho.