Water Distribution Operator

Water Distribution Operator Job Type: Full-time Permanent Job Posting #: 2026-32 Closing Date: October 20, 2026 Group: CUPE 1189-01 Department: Public Works & Engineering Location: Owen Sound, ON The City of Owen Sound is seeking a motivated and safety-focused professional to join our Water & Wastewater team as a Water Distribution Operator . Reporting to the Water Distribution Superintendent and receiving daily direction from the Water Distribution Lead Hand, this position plays a critical role in delivering safe, reliable drinking water to our community through the operation, maintenance, and repair of the City's water distribution infrastructure. This position is responsible for maintaining water distribution assets, responding to emergencies and customer concerns, participating in on-call operations, and ensuring compliance with provincial regulations and industry best practices. This position is being posted for an existing vacancy. What You’ll Do Water Distribution Operations & Maintenance Operate, maintain, and repair water distribution infrastructure, including watermains, valves, hydrants, water services, pressure regulating valves, and water meters. Install, inspect, and maintain fire hydrants and associated infrastructure. Troubleshoot and repair water leaks throughout the distribution system. Assist with inspections and routine operations at reservoirs, pumping stations, valve chambers, and the Water Treatment Plant. Participate in planned maintenance activities and emergency system shutdowns or bypasses as required. Equipment Operation & Infrastructure Support Safely operate equipment and vehicles used in water distribution maintenance, including backhoes, dump trucks, tapping machines, leak detection equipment, and utility locating equipment. Locate underground water infrastructure, street lighting, and traffic signal assets. Assist with winter maintenance of hydrants, including snow clearing and inspections. Perform traffic control activities and road closure coordination as required. Support snow clearing operations on sidewalks and roadways when needed. Customer Service & Emergency Response Respond to customer inquiries and service requests related to flooding, water service interruptions, leaks, low pressure, frozen services, and other distribution concerns. Participate in a rotating on-call schedule to respond to after-hours emergencies. Assist in maintaining reliable water service during emergencies and planned maintenance activities. Work collaboratively with contractors, City staff, regulatory officials, and the public. Compliance, Documentation & Asset Management Maintain accurate logs, records, service cards, field notes, and distribution system documentation. Update GIS records and distribution system information when infrastructure changes occur. Complete required regulatory and operational documentation. Participate in ongoing training and certification requirements in accordance with Provincial regulations. Support continuous improvement and asset management initiatives within the Water Distribution System. Health & Safety Perform all work in accordance with City policies, procedures, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Participate actively in health and safety programs, training, and initiatives. Report hazards, incidents, accidents, near misses, illnesses, and injuries promptly. Maintain a strong commitment to safe work practices and environmental stewardship What We’re Looking For Education & Experience College Diploma in a related field, or Grade 12 diploma combined with relevant experience and certification. Ministry of the Environment Water Distribution System Operator Certification. Water Distribution Level II Certification or higher is preferred. Previous experience working in a municipal water distribution environment. Experience operating construction and maintenance equipment related to water distribution systems. Skills & Competencies Valid Class DZ Driver's Licence. …

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