Water Distribution Operator I

City-of-Boulder,-C; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Boulder is seeking a Water Distribution Operator I to operate, maintain, and repair a large municipal water distribution system under direct supervision. You will work on mains, hydrants, valves, service lines, and meters, while supporting safety and emergency response activities.

Minimum education is a high school diploma or GED. A valid Colorado CDL or ability to obtain, plus Water Distribution Operator Class 1 and related safety certifications, are highly valued.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; or two years related experience may substitute for the education requirement.
• Ability to clearly describe program goals and objectives and adjust communication to audience.
• Ability to maintain complete and accurate records and use asset management tools.
• Ability to read and interpret design drawings, blueprints, maps, and related records.
• Ability to work with others and foster teamwork; safety awareness is essential.
• Certifications or experience in traffic control, safety, and equipment operation are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Constructs, maintains and repairs water systems including mains, valves, hydrants, and service lines.
• Reads and interprets blueprints, maps, and design drawings; records measurements and locations.
• Locates underground lines and performs leak detection and repair.
• Performs after-hours standby and responds to emergencies.
• Operates heavy equipment and uses locating tools; maintains safety records and data in software.

Skills

Reading blueprints

Recordkeeping

Safety practices

Communication

Teamwork

English/Spanish fluency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GPS equipment

Pipe locator

Leak locator

Backhoe

Job description

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder!Application Deadline:November 8, 2026Compensation Details:Hiring Range23.58 - 34.19This is a full-time hourly position.Scheduled Weekly Hours:40Benefit Eligibility Group:BMEA (20+ Hours)Locate the Benefit Eligibility Group value on the Employee Benefit Eligibility document to identify the benefits offered for this job.Job Description Summary:Under direct supervision, the Water Distribution Operator I operates and performs basic operation, construction, maintenance, and repair of a large (CDPHE Class 4) Water Distribution system to include multiple types of water mains, valves, fire hydrants, service lines, water meters.as delegated to a Class 1 Water Distribution Operator Participates as a member of the Utilities Maintenance team and works collaboratively with other workgroups and agencies to foster efficient, proactive approach to Water maintenance.Job Description:ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESConstructs, maintains and repairs water systems including installing and maintaining water mains, valves, hydrants, manholes, and service lines in accordance with industry standards, best practices and state and federal water regulations according to delegated authority for a Class 1 Water Distribution Operator under Colorado Regulation 100 and in accordance with the Water Distribution Operating planPerforms routine maintenance on equipment as needed.Reads and interprets design drawings, blueprints, maps, quarter section books, computer generated drawings, and records measurements and locations, mainlines, valves, fire lines, meter pits, etc.Assists in and performs leak detection, troubleshooting and repair processes to the distribution system.Performs utility locates and uses pipe locators, leak locators and correlators. Locates underground water, sewer and storm sewer lines for the Utilities Department, private utilities, contractors, and property owners. Uses equipment to locate utility lines and main breaks including metal detector, pipeline locator, pipe and cable locator, leak correlator, GPS equipment and measuring devices.Performs after hours standby duty on a rotating basis and responds to Utilities emergencies as necessary including snow and ice control shifts.Assists in responding to questions from the public about collections system/distribution system operations and maintenance activities as necessary. Assists teammates in helping customers troubleshoot issues with the utility system.Cross-trains in other divisions and disciplines as directed by supervisor.Maintains accurate records of work performed and materials and equipment used and enters spatial and work order data into asset management software.Operates a variety of heavy equipment and machinery on city owned property and in the right-of-way.Responds to residential problems.Performs related duties as required by management to meet the needs of the city.Participates in professional trainings and development.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSAbility to clearly describe program goals and objectives and assess a situation and adjust their communication style to meet the needs of the specific situation or audience.Ability to maintain complete and accurate records.Ability to model professional maturity and tact while staying task focused.Ability to navigate changing priorities and evolving approaches. Able to link short-term planning with (strategic) task-oriented thinking to anticipate future consequences of current tactics.Ability to perform a wide range of physical and manual tasks in an outdoor environment.Ability to read and interpret design drawings, blueprints, maps, quarter section books, computer generated drawings, and records measurements and locations, mainlines, valves, fire lines, meter pits, etc.Ability to recognize the importance of collaboration and can build lasting relationships and connections with other city employees and community members.Ability to remain alert to conditions, hazards and events occurring at the jobsite. Always utilizes the best industry safety practices.Ability to take proper safety precautions to prevent accidents including use of all required safety equipment and following all safety regulations, policies, procedures and reporting requirements. Responsible for the safety of self, others, materials, and equipment.Ability to use the following types of tools and equipment and trains others in their safe and proper use: backhoe, excavator, single and tandem axle truck and snowplow, frontend loader, hand tools, power tools, long handle tools, jackhammer, grinder, compressor, tamper, locating equipment.Ability to work confidently and professionally with others.Skill in actively listening to commercial or residential service complaints, pinpointing root causes, and collaborating with customers to deliver clear, effective resolutions.Skill in empathy, patient boundary-setting, and socially perceptive interactions.Skill in growing and continually fostering a high-trust, high-teamwork environment. Ability to receive candid performance feedback and participate in open dialogue with supervisor and peers regarding team dynamics and work plan progress.Skill in organization. Ability to map processes, track progress, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities effectively. Ability to perform functions dependably and reliably.Valid Driver’s License and ability to maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record.Have and maintain acceptable background information, including criminal conviction history.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONSAbility to communicate fluently in English and Spanish.Ability to use computers and other technology.Skill and experience in heavy construction.Six (6) months’ experience in utilities operations and maintenance or construction (water).First Aid with CPR Certification through Red Cross or equivalent accredited institution.REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEHigh school diploma or equivalent or GED; or equivalent of two (2) years related experience may substitute for the education requirement only.No experience required.Commercial Driver’s License Class A or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months. Must maintain in good standing.State of Colorado Class 1 Water Distribution System Operator Certification or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.Backhoe and Loader Certification under the Equipment Operator's Certification and Training Program or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.Traffic Flagger Certification from ATSSA or equivalent or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.Confined Space Certification or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.Competent Person Trenching, Shoring and Excavation Certification or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.OSHA 10-hour certification or new hires have ability to obtain within nine (9) months.SUPERVISIONSupervision Received: Water Distribution SupervisorSupervision Exercised: NoneWORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTSPhysical and Mental Effort: Ability to work in and around moving traffic and equipment, in areas of limited access and confined spaces requiring standing, walking, bending, and kneeling. Requires upper body strength to lift and carry equipment and supplies as needed. May experience stress from demanding deadlines, public contact, and changing priorities and conditions. May experience stress from encounters with concerned or distraught customers.Work Environment: Works year-round in an outdoor environment and at times in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, wind, heat, cold, and snow. Works in an industrial setting subject to continuous interruptions and background noises. Works irregular hours, weekends, evenings, holidays, and/or emergencies as required to respond to water and wastewater main breaks and other emergencies.Machines and Equipment Used: Hand and power tools, long-handled tools, backhoe, excavator, single and tandem axle truck and snowplow, frontend loader, hand tools, power tools, jackhammer, grinder, compressor, tamper, locating equipment, sewer jet, bucket machine, combo cleaners, CCTV equipment, hydro-excavators, vactor style trucks, two-way radio, gas detection equipment, pipe/leak locators, correlators and computers (hand-held, lap-top, and stationary). Required to wear protective safety gear and use safety equipment to protect against potential biohazards possibly encountered.As part of the City of Boulder’s commitment to a future with equitable access to health, prosperity, and fulfillment that is not limited by a person’s race, ethnicity, age, gender, ability, religion, sexuality, or socioeconomic status, it is the city’s policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) for all individuals. The city does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or policy.