Water Operator I

Position Summary

The primary function of an employee in this position is to perform meter reading duties and semi-skilled installation, maintenance, and repair duties of the City’s water storage and distribution systems.  The work is performed under the direct supervision of the Lead Operator, Foreman, and general supervision of the Water Superintendent.  The principal duties of this position are performed in an environment that may include working in adverse weather conditions, and hazards involving the use of power tools, heavy equipment and exposure to hazardous and allergenic materials.  Due to the on-call nature of this position, the working hours vary and may include weekends, evenings and holidays.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform water system operations and maintenance safely in a team‑oriented environment in accordance with established policies and regulations.


• Read, record, and maintain residential and commercial water meter data.


• Use GIS and related technology to locate, document, and update water system infrastructure, including mains, valves, laterals, meters, and hydrants.


• Install, inspect, maintain, and repair water service systems, meters, hydrants, and related facilities; inspect for leaks and system integrity issues.


• Monitor, operate, and maintain pump stations, valves, pumps, and control systems, including routine inspections, fluid level checks, and recordkeeping.


• Safely operate motor vehicles, light and heavy equipment, hand and power tools; perform routine vehicle and equipment inspections.


• Perform general facility maintenance, including cleaning, groundskeeping, and snow removal at water system facilities.


• Read and interpret technical manuals, gauges, meters, control panels, and testing or monitoring equipment; collect and interpret test results and adjust processes as needed.


• Prepare reports and maintain accurate operational, maintenance, and performance records.


• Communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and the public.


• Participate in after‑hours on‑call rotation and respond to emergency situations as required.


• Perform other related duties consistent with the position.

Specialized Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements

• Valid Idaho Driver’s License or ability to obtain one within a reasonable period after hire.


• Ability to obtain Idaho Water Distribution Operator Certification within 24 months of hire.


• Working knowledge of water system operations, mechanical systems, and the safe operation of light and heavy equipment, including hand and power tools.


• Ability to perform basic mathematical and scientific calculations related to routine testing, sampling, and reporting.

Education Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalency required OR any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Other Qualifications:


The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of the conditions that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Regular, predictable, and on-site attendance is an essential function of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands of this position require that the employee be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation. The employee must have sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to understand verbal instructions, communicate effectively with coworkers and the public, and operate iPad, Cell Phone, computer, or other electronics issued for the job. The position also requires adequate visual acuity to read, interpret, and prepare written instructions, maps, documents, and electronic data. The intern must possess the manual dexterity necessary to operate standard office equipment, including a computer, and to adjust equipment or operate a motor vehicle when required. Additionally, the employee must have personal mobility, flexibility, agility, strength, and balance needed to perform routine office tasks, lift up to 25 pounds or maneuver 75 pounds, and carry out duties in both indoor office environments and outdoor field settings.

Work Environment:

The work environment for this position involves a combination of indoor office settings and outdoor field conditions. The employee must be able to perform duties in a typical office environment as well as in outdoor locations that may include uneven terrain, climbing, and accessing elevated or confined areas as needed for data collection or site inspections. The employee may be exposed to a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and other inclement weather. These environmental conditions require the ability to maintain safety, mobility, and awareness while performing essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

The City of Blackfoot is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.