Lead Water Distribution Operator

Salary Range: $73,340.00 - $96,511.00 annually
Full-time, non-exempt position plus full benefits package.
The closing date for this position is 11:59 p.m., Sunday, September 24, 2023. 
 
 
About This Opportunity
The City of Hillsboro Water Department is excited to announce multiple career opportunities within our team!  We are currently seeking candidates for two Lead Water Distribution Operator positions.
 
As part of the dynamic and dedicated team at the City of Hillsboro, you will play a pivotal role in our mission to deliver safe and reliable water services to our community. The Hillsboro Water Department operates at a metropolitan scale from a suburban environment, with responsibilities for local water distribution as well as for regional water supply, providing drinking water supply to nearly 400,000 people.
 
One Lead Distribution Operator will be embedded in the Distribution System Maintenance section, while the other in the Flow Control Operations including Barney Reservoir Operation. Together, we will ensure that we deliver safe, clean water continuously to our customers, while operating and maintaining our infrastructure consistently.
 
 
What You Will Be Doing
The Lead Water Distribution Operator is a field supervisory role using leadership and guidance to ensure jobsite safety, system maintenance, and operation. Collaboration is key in this position, as the Lead Operator will be closely collaborating with all divisions of the Water Department, the Joint Water Commission, and the Barney Reservoir Joint Ownership Commission.

System Maintenance Section
This position reports to the Distribution Coordinator for direction and guidance regarding system maintenance and project delivery.
 
Responsibilities include the following:

• Lead a team of water distribution operators, providing guidance and support to optimize  their performance.
• Coordinate daily work schedules and assignments to ensure the timely completion of tasks, such as service line installation, water main repairs, and leak detection.
• Monitor and operate the distribution system, including valves, pumps, storage facilities, and other equipment, to maintain consistent water pressure and flow.
• Conduct regular inspections of water distribution facilities to identify and address potential issues, such as leaks, maintenance items, and faulty equipment.
• Respond promptly to customer service requests and inquiries, resolving issues related to water quality, pressure, or service interruptions.
• Collaborate with engineering and the water treatment team to maintain water quality standards and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols to promote a secure working environment for the distribution team and the public.
• Keep accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment readings, and any incidents, preparing reports as needed.
• Assist in the development and implementation of maintenance plans and capital improvement projects for the distribution system.
• On call Response on a scheduled rotation is required.

 
Flow Control Maintenance Section
This position reports to a Flow Control Coordinator for direction and guidance regarding system maintenance and project delivery.
 
Responsibilities include the following:

• Operate and monitor Barney Reservoir to ensure a reliable water supply.
• Operate and maintain water distribution systems, pumping and storage facilities, services pumps, motors, valves, generators and other related equipment.
• Monitor and maintain finished water quality to ensure safety and compliance with standards and laws; monitors, maintains and calibrates various instruments; performs water laboratory testing and reviews results.
• Determine and regulate water flow to ensure adequate water supply; reads flow meters, adjusts pressure valves and repairs flow meters.
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and instruments to ensure efficient operations and accurate readings. 
• Address questions, concerns and inquiry from the general public; provides requested information; investigates and takes appropriate measures to resolve issues.
• Manage records and information in any format, in accordance with applicable statutes, regulations and City policy, guidance and records retention schedule.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.
• On-call Response on a scheduled rotation is required. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Perform taps on water mains, installs new services, relocates water pipes and appurtenances, identifies and repairs leaks, maintains and operates valves, hydrants and meters.
• Address questions, concerns, and inquiries from the general public; provides requested information; investigates and takes appropriate measures to resolve issues.
• Maintain records, reports, logs, and other required documentation in accordance with retention schedules.
• Serve as a lead worker to staff to include assigning, monitoring, and reviewing the completion of work.

For full job classification details, please click here

Current/ Upcoming Projects
As a Lead Operator in Hillsboro, you may be involved in various programs and projects. Some common programs and projects that a Lead Operator may be involved in include:

• Distribution and conveyance systems maintenance and improvements
• Flow control and Storage operation and maintenance
• Willamette Water Supply System Integration
• Lead and Copper Rule Revision, implementation including service identifications
• Large meter and AMR meter replacement
• Asset management implementation

 
Acceptable Experience and Training
Associate’s degree in chemistry, biology, water, wastewater technology, or related field and 5 years of experience as a Water Distribution Operator; and, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
 
 
LICENSING/CERTIFICATIONS 
Required upon start date:

• Oregon Water Distribution Operator IV Certification
• Valid Driver’s License and safe driving record 

Must be able to obtain within 12 months of hire:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL A w/ Tanker Endorsement)
• Traffic Control Certification
• Traffic Control
• 1st Aid/AED
• Forklift certification
• Confined space training
• Tri-met track access certification
•  Excavation safety

Commitment To Equity
Hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.

Bilingual Incentive Pay Available
Bilingual incentive pay is available - Employees who can demonstrate the ability to speak Spanish, or any language spoken by over ten percent (10%) of City residents as documented by the most recent U.S. Census, at a proficiency level determined by a fluency test administered by the City, will receive a monthly premium of three percent (3%) of their regular base pay. 

EEO