Distribution Operator I

About the role

Under general supervision, performs daily activities to ensure potable water quality, adequate flow through the water system, inspection of maintenance and construction activities for proper installation of water system facilities, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assists the Chief Distribution Operator in coordinating water system operations, including monitoring and inspecting the work of pipeline repair crews and providing task guidance.
• Affords assistance in training workers in the safe and proper operation of equipment and tools; ensures safety compliance and provides instruction on efficient work methods.
• Identifies and reports hazards and liability exposures, and initiates corrective measures as needed.
• Informs supervisor of potential hazards, problem areas, public inquiries, and the status of other work activities.
• Operates and maintains transmission and distribution valves throughout the water system.
• Ensures regulatory compliance for line flushing, bacteriological sample collection, disinfection, pressure monitoring, and construction inspection.
• Ensures customer notifications are issued for both emergency and scheduled water outages.
• Participates in asset management activities, including documenting and maintaining information on system valves.
• Provides system information to support Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and development planning for current and future projects.
• Adheres to the personnel, safety, and department policies and procedures.
• Inform the Chief Operator of all work activities.
• Assists other coworkers as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) required.
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class C Water Distribution Operator Certificate required.
• Valid Texas Class “C” driver’s license required.
• Must be able to obtain a valid Texas Class “A” Commercial Driver's License, with proper endorsements and without restrictions, within six (6) months of hire.

Qualifications

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in water distribution and maintenance, and system operations required.

Skills

• Knowledge of water system operation principles and water system hydraulics.
• Knowledge and skill in the proper use of tools, equipment, and materials used in the maintenance, repair, and construction of water distribution systems.
• Knowledge of state and federal health codes governing public water system design and operation.
• Proficiency with personal computers, including spreadsheets and word processing software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, maps, manuals, and regulations; follow oral and written instructions; and maintain good hand-foot-eye coordination to operate equipment.
• Ability to work after hours and participate in an on-call rotation.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Wellness Program.
• Retirement & Financial Benefits: Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS), 457- Pre and Post Tax Deferred Compensation, Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holidays).
• Work – Life Balance: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Compressed Work Schedule, Flex Place Work, Flex-Time Work Schedule.