Operations Technician-In Training

Overview

Description We’re looking for a motivated individual ready to build a hands-on career supporting Pullman’s essential water system. As an Operations Technician, you’ll learn to operate wells and booster stations, perform water quality testing, respond to system alarms, and work with modern tools and technology — all while helping keep our community safe. No prior experience in water operations is required.

We provide training and support to help you earn key industry certifications, develop technical skills, and grow into a vital member of our team. If you enjoy problem-solving, working outdoors, learning new skills, and being part of a supportive crew, we’d love to have you join us. Job will remain open until filled, first review is February 6th, 2026.

GENERAL

PURPOSE:

This is specialized work in the Public Works water/sewer department.

• Learn to perform a variety of routine and emergency tasks relating to the City of Pullman’s drinking water and sewer collection systems, including well & booster station operation, chemical generating & pumping systems maintenance, backflow testing & repair, water quality testing, storage reservoir inspection, cleaning & repair, lift station operation and SCADA telemetry monitoring.
• Carry a city-supplied cell phone at all times and respond to alarms and other events outside of normal business hours.
• Monitor and manage City wells, booster stations and reservoir sites to assure proper operation and adherence to state & federal regulations necessary for a Class A water system.
• Maintain wells, booster stations, chemical feed pumps and associated piping; operate, maintain, inspect, and repair water treatment equipment including on-site sodium hypochlorite generating, chemical feed, storage, and residual monitoring equipment.
• Sample and test raw, process, and treated water in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Monitor overall health of the drinking water supply, perform flushing activities, and respond to customer concerns concerning water quality (taste/odor/pressure).
• Test, repair and replace backflow assemblies; read water meters using AMR systems and GIS equipment.
• Coordinate with City finance/billing staff for field work including water system leak assessments, water service turn on/off, meter testing, MXU troubleshooting & replacement, and other field work requests relating to consumer water accounts.
• Perform water-conservation rebate inspections and learn about the city’s conservation programs.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair pressure reducing, sustaining, surge anticipation, pressure relief, and pump controller valves; monitor SCADA Telemetry and respond to alarms.
• Operate and maintain the City’s sewage lift stations, troubleshoot control issues, and configure alarm limits.
• Check, inspect, test, and repair hydrant meters/backflow rentals for off-site water use; diagnose sewage lift-station control issues.
• Perform routine maintenance to City equipment and use service work orders to create and complete tasks.
• Participate in snow and ice control on city streets and perform related tasks at Wells, Boosters, Reservoirs, and Administration Building.
• Respond to water system and lift station alarms at any time; upon demonstration of skills, participate in rotational crew response.
• Assist other departments as directed and follow safety procedures in all duties assigned.
• Carry a City-supplied cell phone and attend work on a regular and dependable basis; interact professionally with city staff and the public.

• Requirements/Selection Factors: Applicants should describe their experience and training for each factor. Candidates must satisfactorily demonstrate possession of these factors during probation and thereafter for continued employment.
  • Gain knowledge of Washington State Department of Health & Federal drinking water standards, water quality testing and sampling procedures.
  • Gain knowledge of water distribution systems and hydraulics, backflow testing, electrical safety, hazardous chemical handling and transport, telemetry, and lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Develop knowledge of PPE needs for each task and confined space entry practices.
  • Abi…