Water Distribution Operator I/II

The City of Colton is now recruiting for two (2) full-time Water Distribution Operator I/II’s in our Public Works & Utility Services Department. This recruitment will be used to establish an eligibility list for current and future vacancies.  The filing deadline is March 18, 2026, or when 75 applications are received. 

Depending on qualifications, candidates may be hired at a level I or II. Salaries per month are:

I: $4,988.38 – $6,063.42

II: $5,680.61 – $6,904.82

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR I

DEFINITION:

Under direct supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and limited skilled maintenance duties and activities within the Water Utility Division; operates power-driven maintenance and construction equipment.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

The Water Distribution Operator I is the entry-level classification within the Water Distribution Operator series. Incumbents within this classification also perform work of a manual nature, which requires a high degree of mental and physical dexterity. Incumbents within this classification perform similar duties and responsibilities to those of the Water Distribution Operator II; however, they do so under close supervision and direction progressing to general direction as experience is gained. 

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

Does not exercise supervision.

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR II

DEFINITION:

Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and limited skilled maintenance duties and activities within the Water Utility Division; operates power-driven maintenance and construction equipment.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: 

The Water Distribution Operator II is the journey level classification within the Water Distribution Operator series. Incumbents in this classification perform work of a manual nature, which requires a higher degree of mental and physical dexterity. Incumbents within this classification is distinguished from the next lower classification of Water Distribution Operator I by the performance of semi-skilled maintenance duties and responsibilities within an assigned area, such as laying, tapping and general maintenance of water lines, constructing and maintaining pipe installations. Incumbents in this classification may be assigned to assist crews with assigned duties and responsibilities. Incumbent may oversee the work performed by a lower classification.

Note: Incumbents in this classification are subject to the Alcohol/Drug Testing requirements of the Department of Transportation.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

May exercise technical and functional supervision over lower-level maintenance staff.

Essential Functions:

For additional essential functions of the job, review the job description by visiting the applicable link below:

Class Specifications | WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR I | Class Spec Details

Class Specifications | WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR II | Class Spec Details

Qualifications:

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR I:

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

A typical way to obtain this knowledge and abilities would be to possess: 

 

Education:  A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

 

AND

 

Experience:  One (1) year of experience performing duties in water construction and maintenance, or water technology is highly desirable. 

 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

 

• Possession of a valid California Class “C” driver’s license issued by the California State Department of Motor Vehicles and good driving record is required.
• Possession of a valid California Class “B” driver’s license issued by the California State Department of Motor Vehicles with air break and tanker endorsements and good driving record is desirable.
• Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Grade I Water Distribution Operator Certificate is required within 12 months of hire.

 

Additional Requirements: 

Depending on the needs of the City, the incumbent of this classification may be required to maintain additional licenses or certificates and Continuing Education Units. The incumbent may be required to work outside the traditional work schedule. May be subject to call out/call back or stand-by scheduling.

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR II:

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

A typical way to obtain this knowledge and abilities would be to possess: 

Education:  A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

AND

Experience:  Two (2) years of experience in the installation, construction, and maintenance of public water system pipelines, valves and appurtenances or a related field. 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Possession of a class “B” California driver’s license with air breaks and tanker endorsements is required. Class “A” California driver’s license is desired.
• Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Grade II Water Distribution Operator Certificate is required. (attach to application)
• Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Grade I Water Treatment Operator Certificate is required. (attach to application)

Additional Requirements: 

Depending on the needs of the City, the incumbent of this classification may be required to maintain additional licenses or certificates and Continuing Education Units. The incumbent may be required to work outside the traditional work schedule. May be subject to call out/call back or stand-by scheduling.

Additional Information:

PHYSICAL TASKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment. The need to lift, carry and push tools, equipment and supplies weighing 50 pounds or more is also required. Additionally, the incumbent in this outdoor position works in all weather conditions including wet, hot, and cold. The incumbent may use hazardous materials including cleaning and lubricating chemicals, which may expose the employee to fumes, dust and air contaminants. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders, use power and noise producing tools and equipment, drive motorized vehicles and heavy equipment, work in heavy vehicle traffic conditions and often work with constant interruptions.

This job specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify essential functions and requirements of the job. Not all incumbents may perform all duties at all times. However, incumbents must be able to perform the essential duties, with or without accommodation for disability at any time while holding this position.