Job Description
The City of Avondale has an opportunity for a Water Distribution Operator to join the Public Works Department.
The Water Distribution Operators performs a variety of daily tasks to operate, maintain, and repair the City's water distribution system. Work includes preventative and reactive O&M activities to ensure reliable system operation. Daily work tasks could include repairs, replacements, and evaluation of the water mains, valves, hydrants, service lines, water meters, air release valves, blow-off valves, and other system appurtenances.
Under direct supervision of the Water Distribution Supervisor, a Water Distribution Operator also performs system manipulations, system shutdowns, customer service investigations, and assists with other divisional tasks such as utility locating, marking, and various water meter service activities.
The Water Distribution Operator is responsible for responding to emergencies and is required to participate in the 'on-call' program and will respond to after-hour callbacks on a rotating schedule, as needed. Work may be performed independently or in small teams.
Essential Functions
Performs predictive, preventative, and reactive operation and maintenance activities on the City's domestic water system, including valve exercising, valve maintenance, hydrant maintenance, hydrant flushing, customer service investigations, and more.
Repairs main breaks, isolates broken mains, sets up traffic control, operates equipment such as backhoes, combination jet/vacuum trucks, ditch witch units, dump trucks, utility service trucks, jackhammers, underground piercing units, pneumatic and electric power tools and other equipment for distribution system repair.
Repairs and/or replaces water service lines, water valves, valve boxes, air release valves, blow-offs, pressure-reducing valves, fire hydrants, and other system appurtenances.
Communicates planned and unplanned interruptions in water service to customers. Ensures work areas are clean and hazard-free after completion of each assignment.
Utilizes the electronic work order system with the City's CMMS software on a daily basis to accurately record and reflect proper equipment, labor, and asset utilization for each assignment.
Investigates customer complaints related to water service such as low or high water pressure, water quality, air entrainment, system leaks, and more. Participates in the rotating 'on-call' schedule and responds to emergency callbacks as required.
Follows all JHAs for distribution operations and maintenance. Utilizes required safety equipment when necessary and occasionally enters confined spaces by safely following OSHA safety regulations.
Performs other duties as required, including occasional chlorine residual testing, leak detection, and emergency system marking as required by Arizona811.
May be called upon to assist other divisions within the Department and perform other duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED equivalency is required.
Work requires a knowledge or interest in basic mechanical and/or repair processes. Knowledge obtained through a vocational school or technical college is preferred.
One (1) year of experience in operating and maintaining a water distribution system, operating heavy equipment, and/or experience in a construction-related field is required.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered if sufficient to perform the essential duties of the role as listed herein.
Must possess an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Water Distribution Operator Grade I Certification or be able to obtain the Certification within six (6) months of hire and must be able to maintain certification for the duration of employment.
Must possess a Class 'A' CDL upon hire and must possess or be able to obtain a tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire and maintain license for the duration of employment.
Supplemental Information
Work requires the ability to read schematics, construction plans, technical specifications, regulations, permits, Safety Data Sheets, O&M manuals, standard operating procedures, repair manuals, and more.
Work requires the ability to perform general math calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Work requires the ability to write daily logs, reports, work orders, and general correspondence.
Planning responsibilities include effective time management for daily work assignments and inspections; contributing to various projects and managing the needed tools, equipment, and materials to complete assigned tasks.
Works directly with and collaborates with other Distribution Operators, Senior Distribution Operators, and other Public Works staff. Assumes responsibility for completing assigned projects with available resources.
Work is governed by broad instructions, objectives, and policies. Completes tasks under the guidance of the Water Distribution Supervisor, the Lead Water Distribution Operator, and other system operators. Exercises initiative, independent analytical skills, and evaluative judgment.
This position makes contact with others within the organization. These contacts may involve similar work units or departments within the City, which may be involved in decision-making or provide approval for purchases or projects.
This position makes frequent contact with outside entities, groups, and the general public, but must represent the City in a professional manner, including attitude and appearance when required.
Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner is required.
Employee must maintain regular in-person attendance.
