Distribution Operator I

Description

Performs skilled technical work demonstrating proficiency in investigating consumer complaints, assessing water system breaks and leak detection incidents. Must demonstrate the ability to determine appropriate maintenance and repair action in a variety of water system problems such as leak detection in pipelines, meters, valves, fittings, and hydrants. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Distribution Manager. This position is designated as essential during disaster and/or emergency situations.

Essential Functions

• Investigates residential and business consumer complaints related to leakage, seepage, pressure, flow, and noise; determines the cause of flow and pressure problems; determines or provides appropriate repair or maintenance. 
• Investigates meter leaks and determines appropriate repair or maintenance plan.
• Inspects and researches suspected leaks in the water distribution system pipelines, valves, fittings, and hydrants and provides recommendations to complete the repairs or maintenance.
• Take appropriate action to shut down the water system to isolate breaks and facilitate the repair or replacement of new connections.
• Performs flushes and plans and/or directs field staff in routine, emergency, and systematic flushing of water mains; notifies consumers and local fire agencies of planned system flushing; opens and closes main gate valve, blowoffs, and hydrants by hand to accomplish flushing as required; monitors water quality, pressure, and runoff drainage visually and by gauge to determine adequacy of flushing. 
• Utilizes H2GO’s water system maps and GIS to locate water mains, valves, hydrants, meter boxes and other water distribution system equipment.
• Operates leak detection equipment such as pipe locators, metal detectors, and other detection equipment as needed.
• Conducts hydrant flow tests; in support of field engineering studies, initiates, and conducts pressure and flow levels in selected system; prepares reports of findings according to standard operating procedures and recommends corrective action as needed. 
• Prepares written reports of field investigations, findings, recommendations and H2GO work order requests; maintains accurate records of investigations, findings and repairs, documenting time, materials, and equipment used. 
• Perform water quality sampling.
• Inspect, maintain, and operate a variety of heavy construction including a dump truck, mini-excavator, backhoe, trencher, water tank truck and other related equipment.
• Utilize proper safety precautions related to all work performed.
• Spray pesticides or herbicides as needed to maintain vegetative control.
• Use proper traffic control techniques to provide a safe working environment when working in heavy traffic areas.
• Works as part of an on-call rotation as needed.
• This position is responsible for creating a culture of belonging and inclusion.
• Ensure compliance with all organization policies and procedures.
• Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Must be able to perform heavy manual labor, 
• This position requires a North Carolina Class C Water Distribution Operator’s Certification or the ability to obtain within one (1) year.   
• This position requires a valid North Carolina Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or the ability to obtain within one (1) year.
• OSHA 10 course, DOT Flagger training, and trenching and shoring training required within a reasonable time frame.
• Operating heavy equipment, small engine powered equipment & hand tools
• The ability to read maps/blueprints and document required records and communicate with customers as well as work on jobs independently and in teams.