Laborer (Operator I-II)

Full-time regular position with the Water Department. Starting annual salary: $38,251–$47,236 ($18.39–$22.71/hour), dependent on water level certifications.

About the role

Performs a variety of working-level semi-skilled duties related to the water system, including construction, installation, maintenance, and general environmental protection.

Responsibilities

• Follows policies and procedures as set forth by the City of Belen.
• Performs routine duties within the water department; assists in constructing and maintaining water systems; performs simple janitorial work; ensures proper installation and maintenance of water systems equipment.
• May assist in the installation of water systems, including selecting line sizes, spacing, type, and control equipment; installs, tests, and maintains systems utilizing low operating features.
• May operate in confined spaces.
• May operate water department equipment.
• Performs general repair and cleanup duties after water breaks.
• Performs various seasonal duties such as snow removal and water line winterization.
• Reads and installs community water utilization meters.
• Scheduled for on-call off-hours and responds to water breaks as needed.
• Assists with city functions.
• Performs related duties as required, including operating around sewer breaks or sewer backups.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED, plus one (1) year of additional education.
• Valid New Mexico driver’s license required; Commercial Driver’s License preferred.
• Willing to obtain Water Level I/Waste Water Level I Certification within eighteen (18) months of hire.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, other city personnel, and the public.
• Ability to work independently and complete daily activities according to work schedule with minimal supervision.
• Must complete a background investigation and pass a drug and alcohol test, including subsequent random testing.

Skills

• Knowledge of common hand and power tools, maintenance and use of motor equipment, two-way radios, ladders, and work tools (shovel, pick, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, etc.).
• Experience with street and water equipment, including heavy maintenance equipment.

Physical demands

• Frequently required to read, write, walk, sit, talk, or hear.
• Frequently required to use hands or fingers to handle, feel, or operate equipment and reach with hands and arms.
• Must push, pull, stoop, bend, or kneel.
• Must occasionally lift and move up to 60 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work environment

• Works both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, including cold, hot, wet, and/or humid environments.
• Noise level varies depending on activities, ranging from extremely quiet to extremely noisy.