Valve and Hydrant Operator

Description

Mustang Special Utility District (Mustang SUD) is the largest Special Utility District in Texas, providing water and wastewater services across more than 220 square miles. With over 43,000 active connections in one of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S., Mustang SUD is committed to excellence in public service, living our motto: “Second to None—Providing Life’s Most Precious Resource”. 

The Valve and Hydrant Operator at Mustang Special Utility District is responsible for ensuring the proper operation and maintenance of the water distribution system’s valves and hydrants. This role includes performing inspections, maintenance, and repairs on fire hydrants and valves to maintain water flow and respond to emergencies. Operators are crucial for maintaining the functionality and safety of the water distribution system, thereby supporting the district’s mission of providing reliable water services.

Essential Functions: 

•    Valve and Hydrant Maintenance: Locate, exercise, paint, maintain, and repair valves and fire hydrants. Conduct regular inspections to ensure valves and hydrants are in good working condition and identify any issues promptly.
•    Operational Duties: Perform valve exercising and hydrant flushing activities according to established schedules and procedures to ensure proper operation and water quality compliance.
•    Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of valve and hydrant inventory, inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities to support asset management and regulatory compliance. Complete work orders using a handheld device, tablet, or PC.
•    Safety and Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols, ensuring a safe work environment. Follow proper safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and traffic control measures.
•    Field Work: Perform tasks in various environments, including inclement weather, confined spaces, and areas with improper illumination. This includes lifting up to 50 pounds, climbing ladders, and performing tasks that require physical stamina.
•    Customer Service: Respond to service calls concerning water utilities emergencies or problems on a standby basis. Address customer complaints and service requests promptly, maintaining professionalism and courtesy.
•    Emergency Response: Work outside normal business hours, including weekends and evenings, to respond to emergencies. Perform overtime duties as necessary to maintain proper functioning order as assigned.
•    Equipment Operation: Operate a variety of motorized equipment, such as front-end loaders, backhoes, brush trucks, dump trucks, and other related maintenance and construction equipment. Use various hand tools as needed.
•    Team Support: Assist other teams and departments in completing projects at storage and pumping sites. Train and support team members as needed.

Qualifications

Education:

• Required: High School Diploma or GED

Experience: 

• Experience in water distribution operations or a related field is preferred but not required.

Certifications:
•    Class C Driver’s License: Must have a valid Texas Class “C” driver’s license.
•    Class A CDL License: Must have the ability to obtain a commercial drivers license within 1 year of hire.
•    TCEQ “D” Water License: Must be obtained within 1 year of hire date.
•    TCEQ “C” Water License: Must be obtained within 2 years of hire date. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

•    Technical Expertise: Proficiency in operating and maintaining water distribution systems, including valves and hydrants.
•    Regulatory Knowledge: Thorough understanding of TCEQ regulations and compliance standards for water systems.
•    Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with regulatory agencies, customers, and internal teams.
•    Customer Service: Ability to provide exceptional customer service and manage public relations.
•    Physical Stamina: Capability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in various weather conditions.
•    Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage compliance schedules, maintain detailed records, and ensure operational efficiency.
•    Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail to ensure accuracy in compliance documentation and operational procedures.

Training/Professional Development Requirements:

•    Continuous Learning: Participate in ongoing training programs to stay updated with industry best practices and regulatory changes. Engage in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
•    Certifications: Obtain and maintain relevant certifications, including TCEQ “D” and “C” Water Licenses within the specified timeframes.

Environment/Working Conditions:

•    Indoor and Outdoor Work: Works both indoors in office settings and outdoors for field inspections. Requires adaptability to various environmental conditions.
•    Fieldwork: Regularly inspects and monitors tasks involving physical activity such as walking, climbing, and handling equipment.
•    Safety Gear: Consistently wears protective gear such as safety shoes, gloves, and hard hats to ensure safety during fieldwork.
•    Flexible Hours: May need to work outside regular office hours to meet regulatory deadlines or respond to emergencies, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Conditions Of Employment:
•    Must have a valid Class "C" Driver's License before employment (must obtain Texas Class "C" driver's license within 30 days of hire per state law).
•    Must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, and social security number verification check.