Utility Operator

Summary of Job Under supervision operates and maintains the utility’s 150 miles of water main, 130 miles of sanitary sewer main, 70 miles of stormwater main, 45 miles of fiber optic conduit, and the rest of the associated infrastructure with each utility. Performs routine and non-routine maintenance and inspections of all four sets of infrastructure. Includes installation of water meters and being able to utilize the associated software needed for day-to-day metering operations. Responsible for being on call. Tasks Routinely Performed Construction, repair, and cleaning of all utility infrastructure including water and sewer mains, valves, manholes, lift stations, swales, ditches, and other facilities associated with the conveyance and treatment of water, wastewater and stormwater including maintenance to buildings, equipment and grounds. Drive and operate a variety of trucks and equipment with accessories including dump truck, tank truck, vac truck, backhoe, skid steer, forklift and other equipment. Operation of valves and hydrants associated with the water distribution system. Reading, exchange and testing of meters. Troubleshoot and resolve customer complaints. Locating of all buried facilities and infrastructure with the use of locating instruments, GIS and mapping tools. Respond to after-hours calls on a scheduled rotation and as needed during emergencies. Work with the public and other City employees. Record all information related to work daily and provide it to appropriate management staff. Read and interpret system maps and records accurately. Qualifications Graduation from high school or equivalent required, Associates degree or higher is preferred. Technical degree or four-year degree in a related field. Prior utility experience relevant to these duties. Must have a valid Wisconsin driver’s license and Class B CDL (Commercial Drivers License) with air brake endorsement. Ability to obtain required state certifications within one year of hire (DNR certified operator certifications). Must have regular, predictable attendance and pass post offer physical exam and background check. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to complete assignments on time. Must be available to work evenings and weekends as required with minimal notice. Ability to get along with the customers and co-workers. Ability to read and understand systems maps and blueprints. Must be able to work in all outdoor environmental conditions from extreme heat, rain snow, and humidity, to extreme cold. Must be able to bend, twist and squat occasionally 6 - 8 hours per day and be able to lift 50 – 100 lbs. Must have no limitations that result from exposure to sanitary sewer odors. Must have no restrictions that impair starting and stopping procedures in vehicles. Must be able to sit to drive continuously 6 - 8 hours per day and shift either standard or automatic transmissions with right hand and arm. Must have no limitations on seatbelt use or restrictions that impair entering and exiting vehicles or equipment. Must have no limitations that restrict shoveling of snow or dirt for 6-8 hours per day. Must be able to utilize hand controls continuously 6 - 8 hours per day. Must be able to work in small spaces. (catch basins and manholes) Essential Knowledge & Skills Knowledge of the materials, methods, equipment and techniques commonly used in utility construction, maintenance and operation. Knowledge of sewer truck operations including skills needed to drive, maintain, and operate the equipment and all related accessories. Ability to trouble shoot back-up problems and repair requirements for sewers. Ability to keep daily, monthly and annual records of work completed for distribution to Director, or other Water and Wastewater Department personnel. Knowledge of work zone safety and traffic control procedures. Knowledge of operation procedures of various hand tools, heavy equipment and trucks. Knowledge of confined space entry procedures, gas monitoring detectors, tripod and other safety equipment.