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Position Title:

Senior Irrigation Operator

Job Description:

Operates and maintains a complex system of irrigation canals and ditches in Salt Lake County to meet Water Exchange Agreements and irrigation system rights between Salt Lake City, private individuals and irrigation companies, other utilities and the State. This is skilled operational and maintenance work with lead person and some minor supervisory responsibilities. Reports to Irrigation System Supervisor.

Position Salary Range:

+ $26.62 - $35.03

This position is eligible for full city benefits, including:

+ Health Insurance (95% of premium paid by city)

+ Dental, Vision and Life Insurance

+ Paid vacation and personal leave

+ Six to Twelve weeks of paid parental leave from day 1 of employment

+ Retirement contributions toward a pension plan and/or 401(k)

+ A robust Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)

+ Up to $4,000 tuition reimbursement annually

+ Discounted supplemental benefits like pet insurance and legal services

IMPORTANT: Early application submittal is encouraged. This position will remain open until filled and may close at any time without notice.

Key Responsibilities:

+ Operates and maintains the canal and irrigation system in the Salt Lake Valley to insure that exchange agreements are met by monitoring and regulating flows in and from canals, ditches, creeks, wells, and pumping stations. Operates diversion structures, head gates and pumps. Regulates overflow devices.

+ Monitors, measures, records, and regulates water to irrigation companies and private individuals who have exchange agreements with Salt Lake City. Changes charts and calibrates measuring devices. Assists in the preparation of monthly and yearly reports of water flows and usage. Uses field measuring devices and computers to prepare reports.

+ Patrols, repairs, maintains, and cleans irrigation flumes, canals, ditches, diversion gates, and operational structures. As a lead person, supervises and trains Irrigation Operator I and II, and hourly or seasonal employees, in the operations and maintenance of the canal system. Trims and cuts trees along canal property. Makes minor repairs on power tools and equipment. Responsible for on-the-job safety.

+ Performs chemical herbicide treatment of canal system. Calculates application rates. Seals canals against leakage of chemical into adjoining streams and creeks. Is responsible for safety requirements for chemical handling.

+ Completes work orders and requisitions, purchases supplies and equipment, and completes necessary paperwork. Performs general maintenance work such as minor carpentry, plumbing, welding, concrete work, and other construction work as needed.

+ Operates city vehicles for canal patrol, maintenance and operational purposes, and other light equipment including chain saws and limb chippers. Operates heavy equipment such as crawler mounted backhoes, front end loaders, rubber tire backhoes, mowing tractors, transports, and 10‑wheel dump trucks on a routine basis. Dredges the canal and levels the canal banks.

+ Meets with individuals or other agency representatives in routine cases of encroachment on city canal right of way. Inspects canal crossings to ensure crossing specifications are met.

+ May fill in for Irrigation Supervisor in his/her absence.

+ Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

+ Four years paid experience operating and maintaining irrigation/canal systems, water distribution systems, wastewater collections systems or stormwater collections systems, either as an Irrigation Operator II or similar position with similar responsibilities in water system operation or maintenance. Two years’ paid experience in the operation of heavy equipment of the type noted above.

+ Possession of a valid Commercial Driver’s License Class A(CDL). Required to obtain Hazmat endorsement.

+ Knowledge of the Salt Lake City irrigation system and various exchange agreements as they pertain to irrigation systems. Knowledge of canal flow measuring devices. Ability to complete work orders, gather readings and prepare reports. Good mathematical skills needed.

+ Knowledge of hand tools and power tools usage and minor repair. Knowledge of repair practices for ditches, head gates and other diversion structures. Knowledge of general construction and safety practices.

+ Must be able to obtain Utah Pesticide Applicators License within six months of hire. Ability to wear respiratory protection devices.

+ Ability to be on periodic standby and work nonconventional hours and respond to emergencies.

+ Ability to relate well with co-workers and customers. Public relations skills needed.

+ Possession of a Utah State Class 5A Pesticide Applicators License.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

+ Moderately heavy physical activity. Required to push, pull or lift medium to heavy weights. Exposure to disagreeable elements such as heat, cold, dampness, fumes noise, dust or grease. Has to stand, walk or sit uncomfortably for extended periods. Exposure to possible biological, health and occupational hazards.

+ Intermittent exposure to stress as a result of human behavior

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required of personnel so classified.

All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

POSITION TYPE

Full-Time

POSITION SALARY RANGE

$ 26.62 - $35.03

DEPARTMENT

Public Utilities

Full Time/Part Time:

Full time

Scheduled Hours:

40

Salt Lake City is a place where your skills and dedication directly contribute to the community. With a team serving over 200,000 residents, we take pride in delivering meaningful work—from maintaining infrastructure to shaping public programs—with integrity and professionalism.

We value experience, accountability, and results. Our organization recognizes talent and rewards contribution, offering employees opportunities to grow, lead, and make a lasting difference.

If you're driven by public service and want to help shape the future of our city, we’d love to work with you.

Salt Lake City offers a competitive and well-rounded benefits package designed to support your health, financial future, and professional growth. To learn more, visit our Benefits & Wellness (https://www.slc.gov/hr/benefits-and-wellness/) site.

Health & Wellness

+ 95% City-paid medical insurance

+ Dental, vision, life insurance

+ HSA (with $1,000–$2,000 City contribution)

+ Wellness clinic for employees & families

+ Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Financial Perks

+ Tuition reimbursement (up to $4,000/year)

+ Retirement contributions (pension and/or 401(k))

+ Discounted pet insurance, legal services, and more

Thinking about applying or weighing another offer?

Use our Total Compensation Calculator (https://tools.slc.gov/totalcompensation/) to see the true value of your job offer—including salary, benefits, retirement, and more.

We know time away from work is essential for rest, personal needs, and family life. Salt Lake City offers generous paid leave to help you recharge and stay balanced. To learn more, visit our Benefits & Wellness (https://www.slc.gov/hr/benefits-and-wellness/paid-leave/) site.

+ 12 vacation days to start

+ 12 paid holidays + 1 personal holiday

+ Up to 80 hours personal leave annually

+ 6 - 12 weeks of paid parental leave

+ Bonus leave credit for eligible rehires & public sector transfers

Our Recruitment Team is ready to assist you throughout the entire hiring process—from questions about job openings to application support. Reach the Recruitment Team at 801-535-6699Or email: [email protected]

The City is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Salt Lake City will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Human Resources at 801-535-7900.

Salt Lake City is proud to be a partner of the Utah Patriot Program, providing employment opportunities for Veterans, Military and spouses. We are also a proud National Service Partner.