Position Summary

Job Type:                             Full-time, permanent

Hours of Work:                 Monday – Friday (on call as required)

Reporting to:                      Public Works Manager   

Department:                      Public Works

Wage:                                   $25.85 - $34.36

The Water & Wastewater Operator supports the operation, maintenance, and compliance of Skeetchestn Indian Band’s water treatment, water distribution, and wastewater collection systems, in alignment with EOCP Level 2 Water Distribution, Small Water System, and Small Wastewater Treatment System certification standards.

Although Skeetchestn operates as a federally legislated water purveyor (and is therefore exempt from the BC Drinking Water Protection Act), this role ensures water quality, environmental protection, and public health are maintained to comparable provincial benchmarks.

Key Responsibilities

Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with Skeetchestn Indian Band policies, practices, and procedures as directed by the Director of Operations.  Maintains confidentiality as required pertaining to members, clients, employees, and general matters of SIB.

Water Treatment & Distribution  

• Prepare, draft, and distribute Council meeting agendas in alignment with governance procedures and timelines.
• Record, finalize, and file accurate and confidential minutes for all Council meetings, special meetings, workshops, and delegations.
• Track Council motions, follow-up actions, and ensure appropriate documentation is completed and filed.
• Maintain and update the Council calendar, including governance deadlines, events, community engagements, and external obligations.

Scheduling & Coordination

• Operate, monitor, and maintain three community water systems (Big Sky, Subdivision, Main Village) consistent with EOCP operational standards along with 22 individual wells for monitoring and sampling.
• Conduct daily operational checks and inspections on pumps, reservoirs, treatment equipment, valves, and hydrants.
• Collect and record water samples for laboratory analysis, track chlorine residuals, turbidity, and flow rates.
• Complete daily operational logs and maintain records in accordance with EOCP and federal record-keeping standards.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and minor repairs on mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Coordinate with the Circuit Rider Trainer Program for ongoing performance audits and mentorship.
• Supervise and review service connections, installations, and tie-ins to the distribution system for compliance with EOCP and Skeetchestn bylaw standards.
• Conduct seasonal irrigation blow-outs and line flushing programs to prevent cross-contamination and freezing damage.
• Assist in capital or upgrade projects, ensuring system components meet or exceed EOCP technical criteria.

Wastewater & Septic Systems

• Conduct inspections, service, and maintenance on community and individual septic systems.
• Ensure installation, repair, and replacement of systems meet engineered design specifications and applicable EOCP Small Wastewater Treatment System standards.
• Review contractor work for compliance with Skeetchestn specifications and Environmental Health guidelines.
• Maintain records of inspection, pumping, sampling, and repair logs.
• Perform troubleshooting, identify safety or sanitary risks, and report irregularities promptly.
• Develop a cross connection inventory for annual inspections and ensure documentation is provided for records.

Compliance, Inspection & Reporting

• Perform installation inspections and approve connection work related to water and wastewater systems.
• Review system compliance with EOCP operational best practices, internal protocols, and Health Canada’s Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
• Maintain an up-to-date Operations & Maintenance Manual and Emergency Program for Utilities and assist in updating standard operating procedures.
• Support emergency response planning for water breaks, contamination events, or treatment interruptions.
• Inspect and approve connection permits upon review of system capacity and capability.
• Insure water meter reads are submitted to finance for processing.
• Submit quarterly and annual summary reports to Director of Infrastructure and funding agencies as required.
• Ensure annual inspection and certification on Health and Safety tools and equipment.

Landscaping, Grounds, and General Maintenance  

• Perform irrigation checks, landscaping, mowing, pruning, and snow removal as required.
• Maintain safe working conditions, tools, and vehicles.
• Assist with road and facility maintenance and with community emergency response.

Other related duties.

Qualifications

Education & Certifications

• Grade 12 or GED.
• EOCP Certification (preferred or willing to obtain):
• Level 2 Water Distribution Operator
• Small Water System Operator
• Small Wastewater Treatment System Operator
• Confined Space Entry and Rescue certification.
• Cross Connection Certification
• First Aid with Transportation Endorsement
• WHMIS 2023 and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) certification.
• Current Class 5 BC Driver’s License (or equivalent).
• Heavy Equipment Operator certificate (asset).
• Red Seal Trade considered an asset.

Experience  

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in water/wastewater operations or public works maintenance.
• Minimum 2 years supervisory experience managing operations, inspections and work orders.
• Experience with sampling, mechanical systems, and recordkeeping.
• Minimum 2 years field experience as a certified operator.
• Site inspections and quality control on work sites as a lead hand.
• Supervisory skills and oversight on contractors is a key factor in this position.
• Excellent financial record keeping and administration skills are required.
• Knowledge of EOCP operational standards, sampling protocols, and safety procedures.
• Demonstrated reliability in attendance and commitment to community health.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of federal water legislation draft and Health Canada’s Protocol for Safe Drinking Water Guidelines in First Nations Communities.
• Ability to complete compliance reports and ensure all documentation is up to date.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with pumps, chlorinators, and control valves.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, as-built drawings, and technical manuals.
• Ability to work in civil construction projects and oversee quality and compliance.
• Strong recordkeeping and reporting skills using MS Office and digital data-logging tools.
• Ability to work independently, maintain confidentiality, and model professionalism.
• Demonstrated respect for Skeetchestn Indian Band culture and protocols.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor settings under varied weather conditions. Physical demands include lifting, bending, climbing, and confined-space entry. The position requires after-hours response for emergencies and occasional travel for training and certification.  Dedication to the career is essential to uphold the standard of service delivery within the community.

Are you interested in joining our team? submit cover letter and resume to:

Holly Deneault

Assistant Director of Operations and Human Resources

Email: adminassist@skeetchestn.ca

Fax: (250) 373-2494