Water/Sewer Operator I, II, or III

City of Elko; Elko (NV); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Elko is seeking an entry-level Water Operator to support the Water and Sewer Department. You will monitor telemetry, perform routine maintenance, and operate light and heavy equipment under supervision.

This role offers hands-on training and avenues for advancement within Operator I–III, in a community-focused setting in Elko, Nevada.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year of experience operating and maintaining a public water system.
• Experience with pumps, meters and valves is preferred.
• Ability to follow instructions and work with supervision.

Responsibilities

• Monitor telemetry and tank levels; adjust to maintain water supply.
• Perform preventive maintenance on pumps and treatment equipment.
• Install and repair motors, meters, gauges, valves and pump assemblies.
• Collect water samples and respond to quality concerns from users.
• Operate backhoes, dump trucks, loaders and other equipment as needed.
• Respond to routine and emergency water system events.
• Maintain records of lubrication, calibration and maintenance.

Skills

Manual labor

Equipment operation

Meter reading

Safety awareness

Communication

Tools

Telemetry systems

Maintenance equipment

Job description

Reporting to the Water/Sewer Superintendent, this position within the Water and Sewer Department requires semi-skilled work in the operation of excavation, construction and related equipment used in water and sewer maintenance. Incumbents occasionally operate backhoes, trenchers, dump trucks, vacuum trucks, loaders and other equipment in the maintenance and repair of water and sewer lines, valves, manholes, pump stations and other utility infrastructure. Incumbents are also required to perform manual labor.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the entry level class in the water operator class series. Incumbents of this class may work individually or as team members on assigned projects. Incumbents are trained to operate all types of light and heavy equipment associated with utility construction and earthwork. Assignments are received from a supervisor who may inspect the work in progress and upon completion. Incumbents are expected to proceed with assigned tasks with only general supervision, follow oral and written directions, use independent judgment and exercise initiative in daily work activities. Incumbents occasionally provide task related training to new hired positions.

OPERATOR I

This is the entry level class in the water operator class series.

OPERATOR II

This is the Journey level class in the water operator class series.

OPERATOR III

This is the advanced level class in the water operator class series.

(Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned job tasks/duties are not limited to the essential functions).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Monitors telemetry and tank levels and makes necessary adjustments to maintain adequate supply of water in water systems. Takes daily readings of electric and water consumption meters at pump and well locations; monitors and adjusts pressure regulators in water system.
• Performs preventative maintenance on pumps and pump motor equipment; potable water treatment equipment, inspects booster and well pumps, including checking for excessive noise, heat, or leaks, fluid levels on pumps.
• Changes oil and packing
• Installs and removes motors in wells, and booster pumps, installs, repairs, and calibrates a variety of equipment at pump or well stations such as meters, gauges, valves and pump assemblies
• Checks wells static and pumping levels; checks chemical feed systems and tank levels; checks chlorine residuals.
• Maintains records of lubrication, calibration, and maintenance performed to equipment and machinery. Performs maintenance and repair work on pumps and well buildings and facilities.
• Collects water samples; responds to water quality complaints and inquiries from water users.
• Locates utility line repairs and maintenance
• Performs routine sewer jetting of mains and manholes
• Operates backhoes, dump trucks, loaders, crane trucks and a variety of portable hand tools along with manual labor when necessary.
• Responds to routine and emergency situations in restoring the operation, treatment and monitoring functions of the water systems.
• Performs additional work as required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

(KSAs are the attributes required to perform a job; generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or training).

Knowledge of

• Ability to perform heavy manual labor out of doors for extended periods, frequently under adverse working conditions
• Familiarity with Wells, Pumps,
• Knowledge of Tanks
• Familiarity of Water Meters
• Sewer maintenance principles and practices
• Safe driving principles and practices.

Skill to

• Operate a variety of highly technical computer equipment and related peripherals and software.
• Operate modern office equipment.
• Operate a motor vehicle safely

Ability to

• Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public
• Exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs.
• Understand and follow specific oral or written instructions
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals.

Required Certifications and Licenses

Possession of, a valid class B driver's license with tanker endorsement. Candidates hired at the Operator level must possess a current and valid NDEP Water Distribution Certificate. Out of state certificates must be considered by the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection as an approved equivalent certificate. The successful applicant hired as a laborer must possess a valid driver's license and obtain a class B Nevada commercial driver's license within 6 months of hiring date.

Experience and Training

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge and ability is:

OPERATOR I

Minimum of 1 year of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system or closely related position, and one year of experience in the operation and maintenance of equipment common to municipal water and sewer maintenance and construction.

OPERATOR II

Minimum of two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system or closely related position, and two years of experience in the operation and maintenance of equipment common to municipal water and sewer maintenance and construction.

OPERATOR III

Minimum of three years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a public water system or closely related position, and three years of experience in the operation and maintenance of equipment common to municipal water and sewer maintenance and construction.

Physical and Mental Requirements

The physical and mental requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Frequent standing in combination with walking throughout work shift on all types of terrain up to ¼-1 mile per shift, depending on area assigned. Strength and stamina to bend, stoop, sit, and stand for long periods of time. Occasionally sitting while performing administrative duties. Some reaching for items above and below desk level. Frequent reaching, bending, squatting, and stooping to perform maintenance tasks. Infrequently crawling or kneeling to check gauges and valves. Frequently lifting of 1-15 pounds is required, including materials, samples, supplies, and tools. Infrequently lifting of up to 50 pounds may be required.

In compliance with applicable disability laws, reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with a disability who require and request such accommodations. Incumbents and individuals who have been offered employment are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

Working Conditions

Work is performed under the following conditions. Work is primarily performed outdoors in a field environment with exposure to all typical weather conditions, including travel from site to site. Possible exposure to sharp objects, pinch points, moving objects, vehicles, moving mechanical parts, odors, fumes, gasses, dust, noise, vibration, slippery surfaces.