Water Operator I/II

Position Title: Water Operator I-II

Department: Public Services Department

FLSA Status: This position is represented by Teamsters Union Local No. 252

Location: Public Services Building

Salary Range:

WO1: $5,310-$6,342 (2025)

WO2: $6,094-$7,275 (2025)

Job Summary

Under immediate supervision of the Water Lead Operator (Water Operator I) or general supervision (Water Operator II), performs skilled maintenance, repair, and construction work on the potable water treatment and distribution system of the Water Utilities Services Division; operates maintenance and construction tools and equipment; performs a variety of maintenance tasks relative to water distribution and treatment.

Determination of classification of I or II starting status will be based on the applicants experience, training, certifications, and knowledge of the position as described below and fully described in the class specifications.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Water Operator I (WO1): This is the entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Water Operator II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to workers in this series. Employees at this level are not expected to perform with the same independence of direction and judgment on matters related to established procedures and guidelines as are positions allocated to the II level. Since this class is typically used as a training class, employees may have only limited or non- directly related work experience. Employees work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks.

Water Operator II (WO2): This is the full journey level class within the Water Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Water Operator I by the assignment of the full range of duties assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from level I.

Qualifications

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Basic Qualifications

· Principles and practices of water distribution maintenance and repair.

· Basic principles of water treatment.

· Knowledge of common tools, materials, and motorized vehicles and equipment used in the maintenance and repair of a water distribution system.

· Pumps, valves and backflow devices. Basic mathematical principles.

· Safe work practices and policies.

· Ability to perform heavy manual labor.

· Ability to perform semi-skilled maintenance duties.

· Ability to perform routine groundwater treatment procedures. Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Read and understand schematic diagrams.

· Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

· Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Preferred Qualifications

· Combined Sewer Water Operator (CSWO)

· Commercial Drivers License

· Familiarity with City of Yelm and surrounding area

· Customer Service Experience

Education and Experience Guidelines

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Water Operator I

Education/Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

Experience: One year of water system maintenance experience is desirable.

License or Certificate: Possession of an appropriate, valid drivers license. Possession of an Operator-In-Training (OIT) certification issued by Washington State Department of Health within 6 months of employment. Possession of a Grade I Water Operator certificate issued by Washington State Department of Health within 18 months of employment.

Education and Experience Guidelines

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Water Operator II

Education/Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade.

Experience: Two years of experience performing duties at a level comparable to a Water Operator I in the City of Yelm, including two prior years in possession of a Grade I Water Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by Washington State Department of Health.

License or Certificate: Possession of an appropriate, valid drivers license. Possession of a Grade II Water Operator certificate issued by Washington State Department of Health. Possession of a Cross-Connection Specialist (CCS) certificate issued by Washington State Department of Health.

Physical Standards

Physical strength and ability sufficient to perform manual labor for extended periods under adverse conditions and in all types of weather.

Application Procedure

Please submit City of Yelm application, letter of interest, resume and proof of certifications to Shelby Denny at ...