Water Distribution Operator

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder!

Final date to receive applications:

November 8, 2026

Compensation Details:

Hiring Range

23.58 - 34.19

This is a full-time hourly position.

Scheduled Weekly

Hours:

40

Job Description

Summary:

Under direct supervision, the Water Distribution Operator I operates and performs basic operation, construction, maintenance, and repair of a large (CDPHE Class
4) Water Distribution system to include multiple types of water mains, valves, fire hydrants, service lines, water meters.as delegated to a Class 1 Water Distribution Operator Participates as a member of the Utilities Maintenance team and works collaboratively with other work groups and agencies to foster efficient, proactive approach to Water maintenance.

Job Description:

• Constructs, maintains and repairs water systems including installing and maintaining water mains, valves, hydrants, manholes, and service lines in accordance with industry standards, best practices and state and federal water regulations according to delegated authority for a Class 1 Water Distribution Operator under Colorado Regulation 100 and in accordance with the Water Distribution Operating plan
• Performs routine maintenance on equipment as needed.
• Reads and interprets design drawings, blueprints, maps, quarter section books, computer generated drawings, and records measurements and locations, mainlines, valves, fire lines, meter pits, etc.
• Assists in and performs leak detection, troubleshooting and repair processes to the distribution system.
• Performs utility locates and uses pipe locators, leak locators and correlators. Locates underground water, sewer and storm sewer lines for the Utilities Department, private utilities, contractors, and property owners. Uses equipment to locate utility lines and main breaks including metal detector, pipeline locator, pipe and cable locator, leak correlator, GPS equipment and measuring devices.
• Performs after hours standby duty on a rotating basis and responds to Utilities emergencies as necessary including snow and ice control shifts.
• Assists in responding to questions from the public about collections system/distribution system operations and maintenance activities as necessary. Assists teammates in helping customers troubleshoot issues with the utility system.
• Cross-trains in other divisions and disciplines as directed by supervisor.
• Maintains accurate records of work performed and materials and equipment used and enters spatial and work order data into asset management software.
• Operates a variety of heavy equipment and machinery on city owned property and in the right-of-way.
• Responds to residential problems.
• Performs related duties as required by management to meet the needs of the city.
• Participates in professional trainings and development.

• Ability to clearly describe program goals and objectives and assess a situation and adjust their communication style to meet the needs of the specific situation or audience.
• Ability to maintain complete and accurate records.
• Ability to model professional maturity and tact while staying task focused.
• Ability to navigate changing priorities and evolving approaches. Able to link short-term planning with (strategic) task-oriented thinking to anticipate future consequences of current tactics.
• Ability to perform a wide range of physical and manual tasks in an outdoor environment.
• Ability to read and interpret design drawings, blueprints, maps, quarter section books, computer generated drawings, and records measurements and locations, mainlines, valves, fire lines, meter pits, etc.
• Ability to recognize the importance of collaboration and can build lasting relationships and connections with other city employees and community members.
• Ability to remain alert to conditions, hazards and events occurring at the jobsite. Always utilizes the best industry safety practices.
• Ability to take proper safety precautions to prevent accidents including use of all required safety equipment and following all safety regulations, policies, procedures and reporting requirements. Responsible for the safety of self, others, materials, and equipment.
• Ability to use the following types of tools and equipment and trains others in their safe and proper use: backhoe, excavator, single and tandem axle truck and snowplow, frontend loader, hand tools, power tools, long handle tools, jackhammer, grinder, compressor, tamper, locating equipment.
• Ability to work confidently and…