Water and Wastewater Operator

About the Role

Under the supervision of the Tribal Administrator, this position is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and implementation of water and wastewater treatment systems and infrastructure, with a strong focus on sewer system maintenance and support for capital project implementation. Ensures that water and wastewater systems operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with tribal policy and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing water and wastewater infrastructure projects, including new installations, upgrades, and rehabilitation work.
• Conduct inspections of newly installed infrastructure (pipelines, pump stations, lift stations, treatment equipment) to verify proper construction and functionality.
• Coordinate with contractors, engineers, and utility locators during project execution to minimize service disruptions.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of project progress, as-built drawings, and system changes.
• Perform routine inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of sanitary and storm sewer lines using jetting/vactor equipment, CCTV inspection, and other tools.
• Identify and respond to sewer blockages, backups, overflows, and infrastructure defects (cracks, root intrusion, infiltration/inflow).
• Operate and maintain lift stations, pump stations, and associated equipment (pumps, valves, control panels, alarms).
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on sewer mains, manholes, and related infrastructure.
• Respond promptly to emergency calls involving sewer overflows, spills, or system failures, including after-hours on-call duty as required.
• Maintain accurate logs of maintenance activities, work orders, and system conditions using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) or GIS mapping tools.
• Monitor and adjust treatment processes to ensure compliance with permit limits and water quality standards.
• Collect samples and perform basic field tests (chlorine residual, pH, turbidity, flow rates, etc.) as required.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, meters, and control systems (SCADA).
• Follow all safety protocols, including confined space entry, lockout/tagout, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain compliance with all applicable environmental regulations (e.g., EPA).
• Prepare and submit required regulatory reports and documentation.
• Participate in on-call rotation for emergency response.
• Perform other duties as assigned.