Utility Serviceperson (Distribution)

Join our team at Missoula Water as a Utility Serviceperson (Distribution) and play a vital role in maintaining and improving our city’s water infrastructure. In this position, you'll be responsible for the installation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of water utility systems to ensure compliance with safety regulations, construction codes, and state ordinances. This is a hands-on role that requires technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality service to our community. 

If you have experience in water operations, utilities, construction, or general maintenance—and are looking for a career with growth opportunities—this could be the perfect fit for you!

Priority screening of applications will begin on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established, and the position is filled.    

To Apply: All applicants must submit the City of Missoula application.  

Resumes will not be reviewed. All details should be entered on the application.   

This position is part of a formal career ladder tying pay progression to the advancement and complexity of assigned duties and responsibilities.

**The full pay range for each career ladder is below and will increase each year for longevity and cost of living adjustments.  
Career Ladder I - $24.74 - $28.82/hour
Career Ladder II - $26.53 - $30.90/hour
Career Ladder III - $28.44 - $33.13/hour

• Maintain operation of the water facilities such as valve turning, hydrant inspection, hydrant flow testing, hydrant maintenance, system flushing, new service tap installation, main leak repairs, leak correlation, walk-through inspections, etc.
• Review utility construction plans for adherence to water quality standards and compatibility with existing systems.
• Ensure compliance with plans, traffic safety regulations and construction codes, including appropriate depths, elevations, pressures, construction methods and materials for modifications to work plans; assist with ordinance enforcement, and stop-work orders.
• Install water taps; repair and replace water mains; operate and inspect main valves and fire hydrants; maintain inspection and activity logs.
• Locate and mark City utilities; maintain records in database system and update water system drawings. 
• Provide support and answer question regarding code requirements and construction methods.
• Maintain and utilize various hand tools, equipment and assigned vehicles.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.           

• Knowledge of utility construction methods, practices, and techniques, including when stages of violations and defects may be easily observed and corrected.
• Knowledge of and ability to promote department safety considerations, City safety policies, and OSHA standards, rules, and regulations, including utility inspection safety policies.
• Skill in utilizing computers, various software, and databases, including Microsoft 365, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, with the ability to learn job-specific applications and equipment.
• Skill in following oral and written instructions.
• Skill in safely operating various tools, equipment, vehicles and other machinery in the installation and maintenance of water systems.
• Skill in communicating, in person and writing, with the proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse individuals.
• Ability to maintain records in various databases. 
• Ability to problem-solve and resolve conflicts with facilitating outcomes while maintaining a calm demeanor.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, drawings, and utility construction plans.
• Ability to learn departmental and City of Missoula practices and procedures, including the ability to interpret Missoula Municipal Code, Missoula Water standards and specifications, Montana Public Works Standard Specifications, and other various laws and regulations.

Working Conditions:

• Work environment may include exposure to unavoidable weather conditions, occupational hazards, chemicals, biohazards, construction hazards, and physical risks, including working in confined spaces or high traffic areas, which require following basic safety precautions. 
• Position may require on-call shifts and overtime hours, as needed.  

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to one (1) year of water operator, utility, excavation, construction, general maintenance experience, or another relevant field.  
• Must have a valid Montana driver’s license with a verified acceptable driving record, or the ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.  
• Montana Water 3A, or higher, Distribution Operator Certification, preferred.

Salary : $25 - $27