Meter Reader Water Distribution Manager - Operator In Training

Salary: $29.81 Hourly
Location : Port Townsend
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202602
Department: Water Operations
Opening Date: 01/30/2026

Description
Position represented by:
Laborers 252

JOB SUMMARY Reads, installs and maintains water meters, and maintains and flushes fire hydrants. Assists in troubleshooting, operation, repair, maintenance and construction of the potable water distribution system to ensure the delivery of safe drinking water. Operates maintenance and construction tools and equipment.

SUPERVISIONDirection for work is received from the immediate supervisor. Guidance is typically specific and work is largely supervised or reviewed. Supervisor may use discretion in determining amount of oversight based on employee performance and the objectives of the department.

Examples of Duties

• ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:
  • Reads water meters in person, via transceiver or handheld device; downloads and ensures delivery of data to utility billing; re-reads meters as requested.
  • Performs replacement, installation and maintenance of meters and meter boxes; inspects meters for defects and accuracy. Maintains meter boxes to be visible and accessible.
  • Maintains fire hydrants and PUD water facilities and grounds such as mowing, trimming grass with a string trimmer, removing snow, cleaning, painting and performing other associated tasks as needed.
  • Flushes fire hydrants as directed.
  • Identifies and reports illegal connections, leaks, damage, unsafe conditions or other system concerns through routine inspection.
  • Delivers customer shut-off notices, executes shut-off and activation service orders as requested.
  • Assists in troubleshooting, operation, repair and replacement of all components of the water distribution and water treatment system.
  • Assists in installation and repair of water services, pipes, line taps, fire hydrants, valves, and other water devices.
  • Responds to and determine causes of water quality or delivery complaints. Identifies service and main leaks, operates pipe locators. Establishes proper traffic control and follows all safety procedures.
  • Assists with State Department of Health sampling ,testing and reporting requirements as directed.
  • Assists, as necessary, in maintenance of electric and telemetry systems associated with water distribution.
  • Acquires and accurately applies knowledge of PUD policies and regulations pertaining to water quality.
  • May operate, repair and maintain community septic and wastewater collection systems.
  • Communicates effectively with customers in the field, on the phone and in person.
  • Maintains confidentiality.
  • Performs related work as required and other such duties as may be assigned.
• Standard Workplace Expectations:
  • Contributes to a successful work group by listening to and taking time to understand suggestions and concerns of co-workers.
  • Offers constructive suggestions and ideas that help the team meet or exceed objectives and goals by accepting and supporting team decisions.
  • Maintains a positive and cooperative attitude in the workplace.
  • Determines appropriate priorities to balance workload to meet deadlines. Seeks assistance when needed.
  • Reviews work for accuracy to detect or prevent errors or mistakes that could prove costly or could jeopardize the operations of the PUD.
  • Works additional hours as necessary to achieve departmental goals as requested and authorized by the supervisor.
  • Maintains appropriate behavior, appearance and effort.
  • Regularly takes the initiative to recommend changes in work methods, policies, and procedures to improve levels of service delivery and overall operating efficiencies.
  • Maintains regular and punctual attendance.

Typical Qualifications
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires high school degree or GED and demonstrated mechanical and electrical aptitude. Experience reading meters is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge Knowledge of principles and practices of water system distribution installation, repair and maintenance; principles of electronics, instrumentation and pumping systems; operation and maintenance of hand and power tools and specialized equipment used in water maintenance and repair; state, federal and local laws related to public water,; meter reading and billing practices; computers and job-related software programs.

Abilities Ability to analyze, evaluate and recommend sound solutions to problems of routine nature; read schematic drawings; work independently and efficiently; maintain effective working relations; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; to learn PUD software system and street and business locations within service territory, wear and properly use personal protective equipment and perform all work in a safe manner and possess the ability to adhere to PUD policies and procedures

Supplemental Information
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position requires regular and punctual attendance. Work is typically performed outdoors in all weather conditions. Normal working conditions…