SPU-Water Operator

Sun Prairie Utilities provides water to the City of Sun Prairie and is looking for a municipal water operator to maintain and repair wells, towers, reservoirs, mains, valves, services, and hydrants, plus perform advanced metering conversion and meter testing duties. Candidates must be willing to attain or retain WI DNR Subclass D&G Operator certifications.
 
A valid CDL with a good driving record and experience operating heavy equipment are highly preferred.  
 
This is a skilled position in the maintenance and repair of the municipal water system.   The majority of the work is performed in the field with some duties performed in the shop.  The Water Operator position reports to the Lead Water Operator for daily assignments and fieldwork activities.

This position includes a pay increase as of January 1, 2025, pending Utility Commission Approval.

This job posting will be open until filled, with first review of applications on December 6, 2024.

Essential Job Functions

• Install water main and associated components, including valves, service laterals, and hydrants.
• Perform maintenance and emergency repair work on the water distribution system, including water main, valves, hydrants, service laterals, and curb box assemblies.
• Operate equipment used to maintain the distribution system, including backhoes, compact excavators, dump trucks, and hydro excavation equipment .
• Operate a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as chainsaws, grinders, and impact drivers.
• Restore sidewalks and streets using various powered equipment and hand tools following water system repairs.
• Inspect water main and service installations during times of construction or project-specific field visits.
• Test, repair, replace and install water meters in residential and commercial settings.
• Conduct periodic water sampling as required by the State of Wisconsin.
• Perform daily inspection of well sites, including collecting fluoride and chlorine data .
• Perform and inspect live tap operations of distribution water main.
• Conduct system hydrant flushing and fire flow testing.
• Locate water infrastructure, including mains and service laterals, as requested by Digger’s Hotline.
• Respond and evaluate customer concerns related to water quality, service leaks, pressure loss, or general service.
• Plow snow, mow lawns, maintain vehicles/equipment, and other functions as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements of Work

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Demonstrate wayfinding ability throughout City of Sun Prairie.
• Knowledge of the Sun Prairie water distribution system or similar potable water distribution network.
• Ability to do maintenance and repairs on the distribution system.
• Ability to use and understand the SCADA system.
• Knowledge of the control and operation of the various well pump systems.
• Ability to operate and maintain all types of vehicle/equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, technical bulletins, and drawings.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, the public, and fellow employees.
• Ability to calculate equations associated with the water distribution system.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw conclusions.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or GED.
• WDNR certification in ground water and distribution.
• Valid Wisconsin Commercial Driver's License - class A.
• Knowledge of First Aid and CPR.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative encountered job conditions while performing essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. 

• Work is primarily performed in the field, near moving parts and in the outside weather conditions, including exposure to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme heat, and vibration.
• Requires ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods. 
• The employee is also required to work in the general office environment.
• The employee may occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 100 pounds.
• The noise level in the work environment, on occasion, may exceed 85 decibels and require hearing protection.
• Employee is required to be on stand-by call and report promptly as needed.

The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

The City of Sun Prairie is committed to advancing equity, honoring our diverse identity, and creating an inclusive culture.  These serve as our guiding principles every day in all that we do.  Keep us accountable to this mission and join us in this commitment to a thriving Sun Prairie, as you live, work, and play.  If you need an accommodation during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 608-825-1174 or HumanResources@cityofsunprairie.com.