Field Operator

Job Summary

RT Diversified, Inc. is seeking a dependable Field Operator to support water distribution services for utility companies in the Fresno-to-Madera area. This hands-on position performs authorized maintenance, meter installations, troubleshooting, and service work while keeping accurate records and communicating professionally with customers and contractors. The position will receive assignments through RTD’s supervisor, in coordination with each utility company’s designated system operator. Work locations and daily priorities may change based on operational needs.

Essential responsibilities

· Travel between utility company work sites from Fresno to Madera, follow each system’s procedures, and coordinate daily priorities with RTD’s supervisor. Keep work orders, asset records, and material use identified by company and location.

· Inspect water distribution assets, identify leaks and abnormal conditions, and perform assigned preventive maintenance on valves, hydrants, service connections, meter boxes, and related components.

· Assist with leak investigation, service-line repairs, flushing, valve exercising, and hydrant maintenance under approved procedures. Coordinate planned work and service interruptions before taking action.

· Install, replace, program, activate, and troubleshoot water meters and AMI endpoints. Verify serial numbers, locations, readings, and communication status; document completed installations.

· Investigate work orders involving pressure, usage, meter readings, suspected leaks, or service conditions. Provide clear field findings to RTD’s supervisor and customer-account staff.

· Collect readings and, when trained and authorized, water-quality measurements or samples. Follow approved methods, chain-of-custody procedures, and reporting instructions.

· Support authorized construction observations and acceptance testing in accordance with provided Standard Details and Specifications. Document deficiencies and test results against approved plans and standards; refer acceptance decisions to the designated approver.

· Complete daily work orders, time records, maintenance logs, asset updates, photographs, and material-use records using mobile applications, maps, and applicable GIS or AMI tools.

· Maintain assigned vehicles, tools, testing equipment, and supplies. Report equipment defects and material needs; obtain approval before purchases or work outside the assigned scope.

· Communicate courteously with residents and contractors. Protect customer information and route billing disputes, rate questions, and policy decisions to the appropriate staff.

· Follow safety procedures and use required protective equipment. Recognize hazards, stop unsafe work, and promptly report incidents or conditions threatening water quality, public safety, or service continuity.

Perform work within the procedures, operating authority, and certification requirements applicable to each water system. Coordinate with each company’s designated operator before performing work affecting service or water quality. Specialized duties require company approval, appropriate training, and applicable qualifications.

Minimum qualifications

· High school diploma, GED, or equivalent relevant education and experience.

· At least 2 years of relevant experience in water distribution, utility maintenance, meter service, plumbing, construction, or comparable mechanical field work.

· Valid driver’s license appropriate for the assigned vehicle, ability to meet RTD’s vehicle-use requirements, and ability to travel between work sites as part of the workday.

· Ability to use hand and power tools safely; read work orders, maps, and basic plans; take accurate measurements; and maintain clear electronic records.

· Sound judgment, reliable attendance, practical troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work independently within instructions and cooperate with a team.

· Ability and desire to obtain SWRCB certified treatment and distribution operator licensing, which entails attending a water sampling class from a certified laboratory, successfully completing required operator courses, and passing State administered tests.

· General computer knowledge and literacy required for data entry and digital record-keeping, and proficiency with basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and email.

Preferred qualifications

· California Grade D2 or higher water distribution certification, subject to the grade required for each system and the assigned duties. Current Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Certification a plus.

· Three or more years of water utility field experience, including meter installation, leak repairs, valves, hydrants, or water-quality sampling.

· Experience with Badger meters, AMI endpoints, Beacon, GIS, or similar utility asset and work-order systems.

· Relevant training in first aid and CPR, traffic control, trench safety, confined-space awareness, and lockout procedures. Specialized work requires task-specific training and authorization.

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person