Distribution and Collection System Operator III en Polk County BoCC

UTILITIES DIVISION 

DISTRIBUTION AND COLLECTION SYSTEMS OPERATOR III - 2 POSITIONS (POSITIONS AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 29, 2025)

PG 9 - $18.05HR. - $26.17HR. NON-EXEMPT 

*** This position is eligible for a $1,000 sign-on bonus. ***

Must have the physical, developmental, and mental ability to perform job tasks, work
efforts, responsibilities and duties of the job illustrated.

The Utilities Division is responsible for public health and safety, as well as safeguarding the environment, by providing crucial safe water and wastewater services.  This position is part of the team that provides services necessary for human health, economic stability, and overall societal well-being. At the core of the mission of providing these services includes commitment to providing excellent customer service to our citizens, business partners, regulatory agencies, and other county divisions. 

MAJOR FUNCTION: Advanced work in repairs and maintenance on all water, sewer and re-use distribution
and collection systems. Performs various labor and field work maintaining, constructing, and
repairing potable water, wastewater and re-use distribution mains and service lines.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES: 

• Receives both written and verbal work orders and notifications of water and wastewater line, 
main and/or facility complaints and travels site to check/verify complaint or problem reporting 
information to supervisor/operations office or taking any necessary actions to correct any problem 
found according to operational standard procedures.
•  Cleans, swabs, and air purge existing water mains, installing, tapping, repairing/replacing, 
pressure testing or disinfecting water main and appurtenances (including fittings, valves, and 
hydrants) operating or adjusting control valves as necessary to regulate water distribution system 
flows or pressures.
•  Evaluating and interpreting water quality measurements in water distribution systems and 
troubleshooting to determine causes of water quality complaints.
•  Performs maintenance of water, sewer & reclaimed air release valves (ARV’s).
•  Flush water mains.
•  Install or repair/replace water service lines and appurtenances (including fittings, valves and 
meters), test and maintaining meters.
•  Locate and mark meter mains or service lines.
•  Operate or exercise isolation valves or water, sewer and reuse systems.
•  Test and maintain fire hydrants, repairing/overhauling control valves and hydrants.
•  Performing water quality measurements in water distribution systems; reading blueprints and 
updating GIS information.
•  Acts as crew leader directing and overseeing the work of others whenever assigned.
•  Performs work required of other Utility Distribution & Collection Operator classes as 
required.
•  Performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:
•  Knowledge of the materials, methods, practices, and equipment used in pipe fitting.
•  Knowledge of the construction and repair of utility facilities.
•  Knowledge of the water and wastewater systems.
•  Ability to work from sketches, maps and blueprints.
•  Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
•  Sufficient physical strength and agility to perform a variety of labor tasks in all weather 
conditions.
•  Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other employees and the 
public.
•  Ability to lay out, direct and supervise the work of others.
•  Skill in the use of equipment in pipe fitting.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.

Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in the construction, repair and maintenance of water 
distribution and sewer collection facilities.

Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver's license at the 
time of employment.

Must have appropriate water distribution license or obtain within (24) months of hire date.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Rule 62-699.

A comparable amount of training and related experience may be substituted for the minimum 
qualifications, except for the driver’s license requirement.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must have home telephone at the time of employment as employee is subject to call.
This position, when activated, is required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has 
been declared in Polk County.