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.
• Knowledge of water distribution systems, infrastructure maintenance practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge of underground utilities and construction techniques.
• Ability to interpret plans, drawings, specifications, work orders, and operational instructions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge of GIS and basic computer applications.
• Familiarity with confined space requirements and applicable health and safety legislation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in field environments.
• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with staff, contractors, regulators, and the public.
• Knowledge of the Owen Sound water distribution system is considered an asset.

Other Requirements

• Ability to participate in a rotating on-call schedule and respond to after-hours emergencies within established response times.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work in trenches, vaults, manholes, and other confined or challenging environments.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs (27 kg).
• Ability to work overtime, including evenings and weekends, as operational requirements dictate.

Compensation & Benefits

• Wage: Compensation is based on certification level and a forty (40) hour workweek.

Water & Wastewater Division

Labourer/Operator in Training

$29.54

Cert.Level I 90%

$33.81

Cert.Level II 100%

$37.50

Cert.Level III 102.5%

$38.42

Cert.Level IV 105%

$39.35

• Benefits: Comprehensive employer-paid Extended Health & Dental plan, and OMERS defined benefit pension plan.

Why Join Us?

Join a dedicated team responsible for delivering one of the City's most essential public services. As a Water Distribution Operator, you'll play a direct role in protecting public health, maintaining critical infrastructure, and ensuring reliable service for residents and businesses throughout the community.

Why Owen Sound?

Owen Sound offers the perfect balance of career opportunity, community connection, and outdoor lifestyle. Located on the shores of Georgian Bay, residents enjoy year-round recreation, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their applications via the City's Careers Page. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

The City of Owen Sound values diversity and is committed to providing an inclusive workplace. We will accommodate the needs of applicants in accordance with the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act throughout the hiring process.

The City of Owen Sound is committed to a fair, transparent, and people-centred recruitment process. While modern tools may assist in administrative tasks, all hiring decisions are made by people, and every application is reviewed by a member of our Human Resources team.

We do not use automated decision-making or artificial intelligence tools to screen out or eliminate applicants. Any technology used in the hiring process is designed solely to support efficiency—not to replace human judgment or evaluate applicant suitability.

Privacy Statement:

We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act for the purpose of candidate selection. It will be maintained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.