Water Operator

Position Title

Water Operator I

Chief Water Superintendent

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The Water Operator I is an entry‑level position responsible for maintaining the City’s water distribution system and assisting in the operation of the water treatment plant. This role involves semi‑skilled manual labor, routine maintenance, and ensuring safe, reliable, and clean water service to the community. Work is performed under supervision, with opportunities for training and advancement.

• Participate in the maintenance, repair, operation and cleanliness of the water treatment plant, water storage areas, and related facilities within the distribution system.
• Perform water activities including water taps, service line shut‑offs/turn‑ons, valve maintenance, water main break response, hydrant maintenance, hydrant flushing, meter reading, meter installations and line locating.
• Operate SCADA and other plant computer systems under supervision to make proper adjustments for water treatment and distribution.
• Read all well meters, booster pump stations and daily flow meter recordings.
• Assist in chemical deliveries, topping off and proper mixing of water treatment chemical tanks, and other chemical storage and delivery processes.
• Assist in collection of water samples and perform lab work—daily, weekly and monthly testing—with proper water testing equipment.
• Participate in installation of new water infrastructure and other elements within the distribution system.
• Operate departmental equipment, machinery, vehicles, and basic hand, power and electric tools in accordance with guidelines.
• Perform snow removal and salt/sand application on streets, sidewalks, parking lots and around public buildings, either manually or with equipment as required.
• Maintain a safe work environment, using proper safety precautions.
• Establish and maintain positive public relations with the general public, other employees, governmental agencies and municipal officials.
• Assist other City Departments and Public Works divisions as needed.
• Shift work can be scheduled and assigned to maintain coverage throughout the year; the City reserves the right to adjust schedules. Ability to work weekends, holidays and on‑call rotations is required.
• Physical presence at the assigned job location is essential; remote work arrangements are unavailable.

Assist all divisions as required to accomplish the goals of the Public Works Department. This description may not cover all activities; additional duties may be assigned.

• Learn methods, techniques, materials, terminology and tools for maintaining water treatment and distribution systems.
• Apply federal, state and local laws and regulations related to maintenance, repair and operation of water systems.
• Record keeping and interpretation of technical sketches, blueprints and manuals.
• Operate vehicles, machinery, equipment and tools for duties performed.
• Apply occupational hazards and standard safety practices, including emergency and evacuation procedures.
• Use independent judgment in performance of duties.
• Use computer for administrative duties such as timekeeping and online training.
• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, in English.
• Deal effectively with the general public, establishing courteous and tactful interactions.
• Maintain regular and dependable attendance, including during short‑notice calls due to weather, emergencies and public necessity.

• Valid driver’s license; must be 19 years old at hire.
• Ability to obtain a ClassA Nebraska commercial driver’s license within a time frame set by the employer.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Ability to obtain a Nebraska GradeIV Water Operator license, or equivalent, within a set time frame.
• Maintain all required licensures and demonstrate bondability.

Work is performed outdoors and involves walking, standing, kneeling, bending, crouching, stooping, climbing, lifting up to 50lbs., operating hand and power tools, and transporting oneself between locations in the water district. The work environment includes contact with dirt, dust, chemicals, cleaning solvents, bacteria, noise and inclement weather. Exposure to fumes, airborne particles, toxic chemicals, electrical shock and vibration may occur. Work may be performed in darkness during shift work, main breaks or snow removal.

Vision requirements include close and distance vision, color and depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Interaction with the general public may be stressful.