Utility Operator Ii- Water

**Utility Operator II - Water**

**Full-time, Permanent**

**Engineering and Public Works Department**

**Posted January 30, 2026**

The City of Fernie is inviting qualified applicants for the position of Utility Operator II-Water. Employment for this position will be full-time, regular, and will be part of CUPE Local 2093.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Manager of Public Works or their delegate, the Utility Operator II- Water position is responsible for performing duties related to the operation of the City, including the operation and maintenance of water infrastructure and facilities. The Utility Operator II is responsible for the proper installation, monitoring, maintenance, and record-keeping related to water infrastructure. This position involves the performance of a wide variety of work, occasionally of a complex nature. The position is physically demanding and labor intensive with the requirement to work shift work. Role tasks are routine in nature and vary seasonally.

**Responsibilities**:
In addition to the duties of a Utility Operator I;
- Performs preventative and corrective maintenance activities in the distribution/collection system and facilities, including all ancillary equipment and infrastructure.
- Locate, repair, install, and maintain new and existing services and system infrastructure, including site preparation and clean-up.
- Record and report accurate and detailed information of work; i.e. verbal, written, typed and/or creating sketches.
- Sample, test, and report findings as required for the system and provincial permits.
- Responds to public inquiries, complaints and service calls in a helpful, professional and diplomatic manner in accordance with City Policy.
- Be familiar with all relevant permits to operate.
- Be responsible for the operation and maintenance of municipal infrastructure.
- Be available for call-out to emergencies in the municipal infrastructure system as required in accordance with the terms of the Collective Agreement.
- Conduct assessments, immediate repairs and/or protective measures to ensure public health and safety, as well as system integrity.
- Assist with the timely and economical connection of users to municipal sewer and water systems in accordance with regulated public health and Ministry of Environment standards.
- Assist with accurate inventory control in relation to materials/goods associated with the municipal utility infrastructure.
- Shared responsibility in the development and maintenance of effective records for municipal infrastructure and reporting requirements.
- Undertakes training as required. Completes EOC training.
- All employees shall work in accordance with the City of Fernie’s Safety Management System.
- Support other departments in times of need such as, but not limited to; flooding, snow removal, etc.
- Use and conduct basic diagnostics of the City’s PLC and SCADA monitoring systems/software.
- Ability to work independently, exercise critical thinking, and take initiative reliably, with minimum supervision, and make sound decisions in critical circumstances.
- Training and education for related duties. Completes EOC training.
- Other related duties may be assigned from time to time.

Minimum Qualifications

**Required Qualifications**
- One (1) Certification in Water relevant to the current systems classifications by the EOCP: Water Treatment Operator ( or Water Distribution Operator certificate (2023 EOCP structure).
- o Ex. Water Distribution Operator Level 1
- OR_
- Enrolled and actively progressing through the OIT program with the City of Fernie in the relevant department (water, wastewater).
- AND_
- Valid B.C. Driver's License, minimum Class 3, with air brake endorsement.
- Developing computer skills, including knowledge and experience working in an Microsoft Office environment.
- Has or is able to obtain EOCP Chlorine Handlers Certificate within a specified time period, (if required by the position).
- Ability to train and use SCBA.
- Experience in a municipal environment for 2 years.
- Vaccination for Hepatitis as per OHS regulations.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Proven experience working around heavy construction equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, dump trucks, etc.
- The Following training will be expected to be undertaken and maintained.
- Fall arrest, CSE, Ground Disturbance, Forklift, First AID, WHIMIS certificates, SCBA training, competency in safe backhoe operations.
- Effective interpersonal and organizational skills.

Competencies for Success
- Full Level 1 tickets in the respective department (Treatment or Distribution (2023 EOCP structure)).
- Ability to successfully lead a small crew.
- Independent troubleshooting ability of the utility system and infrastructure.
- The following is considered an asset:

- Proven understanding of common water or wastewater treatment processes, residential and/or commercial plumbing experience, proven mechanical aptitude, and experience as an Operator 2 wi