Overview
Eastsound Water Users Association is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented person to join our team as a Water Operator – WTPO Level 1 on a full-time basis. As a member of our operations staff, you will help supply customers with safe and reliable drinking water through the operation and maintenance of EWUA facilities and distribution systems.
This position works under general supervision and reports directly to the Operations Manager. The WTPO Level 1 position is responsible for routine operational duties and is expected to perform assigned work with increasing independence and technical competence.
Responsibilities
- Water Treatment and Distribution Operations: Operating and maintaining wells, treatment facilities, booster stations, reservoirs, and distribution system infrastructure to support reliable water service.
- System Maintenance: Performing routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs on pumps, valves, pipelines, meters, and other system components.
- Monitoring and Testing: Performing routine water quality monitoring including chlorine residual testing, turbidity testing, routine sampling, and meter readings. Maintaining operational logs and accurately recording operational data and test results.
- Facility Inspections: Performing regular inspections of wells, reservoirs, pump stations, and treatment facilities to identify potential issues and maintain proper operating conditions.
- Emergency Response: Responding to leaks, main breaks, equipment failures, and service interruptions and assisting with restoration of normal operations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining operational records and assisting with documentation required for compliance with Washington State Department of Health regulations.
- Customer Service: Responding to customer service requests including service investigations, leak investigations, and field visits when required.
- On-Call Duties: Participating in the on-call rotation and responding to after-hours alarms and service interruptions when assigned.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Working closely with other operators and staff to support safe and reliable system operations.
Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Certification Requirements: Washington WTPO Level 1 certification required.
- Experience: Experience in water system operations or related mechanical or utility work is preferred.
- Technical Skills: Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills and the ability to operate and maintain water system equipment.
- Computer Skills: Basic computer skills including familiarity with spreadsheets and web-based software.
- License: Valid Washington State driver’s license required.
- Transportation: Must have access to a reliable personal vehicle for transportation to work sites and field assignments. Eastsound Water provides reimbursement for authorized work-related mileage and fuel expenses in accordance with Association policy
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift 50 pounds
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Ability to walk uneven terrain
- Ability to climb ladders
- Ability to perform physically demanding work when required
Personal Characteristics:
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Working Conditions
This position involves a combination of field work and facility work. Operators work outdoors in all weather conditions and may be exposed to mechanical equipment, treatment chemicals, and construction environments.
This position requires regular travel to work sites located throughout Orcas Island. Employees use personal vehicles for authorized work-related travel and are reimbursed for mileage and fuel in accordance with Association policy.
Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Operators participate in on-call duties and must be available to respond to emergencies when assigned.
About Eastsound Water
Eastsound Water Users Association is a member-owned nonprofit water utility serving a large portion of the Orcas Island community, including Eastsound and the Olga, Rosario, and Doe Bay areas. EWUA is responsible for the production, treatment, storage, and distribution of drinking water in compliance with Washington State Department of Health regulations.
To apply for this job please send a resume and cover letter to info@eastsoundwater.org. Thank you for your interest!