Operator II

Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN), parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international generation, transmission, and distribution utility. AQN is committed to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective energy and water solutions through our portfolio of utility investments to over one million customer connections, largely in the United States and Canada.

At Algonquin, our vision is to be the most trusted utility service provider in North America – a premium regulated utility, known for our customer focus, commitment to sustainability, and strong community partnerships. Our employees are at the heart of that vision. We believe that when people are empowered to learn, grow, and contribute their ideas, we can achieve remarkable results together.

We are building a culture that values integrity, inclusivity, and innovation. By joining Algonquin, you’ll be part of a team that is shaping the future of energy and water, while creating long-term value for our customers, communities, employees, and shareholders.

Purpose

Under moderate supervision, Operator II performs skilled and semi‑skilled work in the construction, maintenance, and repair of water distribution systems and related facilities. Operator II responds to public inquiries in a tactful and courteous manner and provides support to Operator III roles as needed. This position may serve as an acting Operator III based on operational needs and supervisor discretion.

Compensation: $24.27 – $36.41 per hour DOE

Accountabilities

- Demonstrate continuous improvement by streamlining work processes, reducing turnaround times, and working collaboratively to ensure efficient, cost‑effective use of utility resources.

- Deliver outstanding customer service while maintaining open communication with internal and external stakeholders including coworkers, contractors, residents, and other utility departments.

- Keep supervisors informed of daily operations, significant developments, and work progress.

- Follow all industry and Utility safety standards, policies, and regulatory requirements.

- Install, maintain, and repair water mains, service lines, valves, hydrants, and related infrastructure.

- Perform line flushing, valve exercising, pressure testing, and system inspections.

- Locate and mark underground water facilities (USA DigAlert).

- Assist with or lead water main shutdowns, tie‑ins, and system isolation procedures.

- Notify customers of water service interruptions according to established policies.

- Operate construction tools and heavy equipment including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, compactors, and tapping machines.

- Excavate trenches, perform pipefitting tasks, and complete utility construction to standard and safety specifications.

- Restore job sites, including pavement replacement, backfill, and compaction.

Long Description

- Collect water samples for bacteriological testing, chlorine residual, and other water quality monitoring.

- Follow state and federal drinking water regulations (EPA, State Water Resources Control Board, etc.).

- Participate in after‑hours on‑call rotations for emergency repairs, main breaks, and urgent system needs.

- Assist in disaster response efforts including earthquakes, storms, and system outages.

- Complete work orders, logs, inspection forms, and system records using manual or digital systems (iPad).

- Read and interpret maps, blueprints, as‑builts, and system schematics.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

- High school diploma or equivalent required.

- Possession of a Grade D2 Distribution Operator Certificate issued by the SWRCB DDW, or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire.

- Grade T1 Treatment Certificate preferred.

- Minimum of two years of related experience in water utility operations, construction, maintenance, or meter reading.

- Valid California Class C driver’s license with acceptable driving record; ability to travel as needed.

- Class A driver’s license required.

- Effective verbal and written communication skills in English, including during adverse conditions.

- Proficiency with communication devices and basic PC skills including Windows, word processing, spreadsheets, and databases; Microsoft applications preferred.

- High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Must maintain a professional appearance as a front‑line representative of the company.

$24.27 - $36.41/hr DOE

Our purpose is sustaining energy and water for life, and it is demonstrated in everything we do as a business and as an employee team.

As the successful candidate

Our Mission

We provide safe, secure, reliable, cost-effective and sustainable energy and water solutions. Our mission is how we create value as an organization—it is what drives us every day to fulfill our purpose.

Our Vision

We better the lives of our customers and communities. Our vision is what we see as possible. It's where we aspire to be, what we want to achieve and how we'll make an impact. It guides and keeps us on the right path as we work towards fulfilling our purposes.

Our Guiding Principles

- Customer Centric

- Integrity

- Entrepreneurial

- Teamwork

- Owner mindset

- Outcome focused

- Continuous learning

What we offer

Collaborative environment with a genuine flexible working policy

401k Plan with matching

Share purchase/match plan

Leadership Development Program

Volunteer paid days off

Employee Assistance Program

Achievement fund

Free parking

Variety of Health & Wellness programs

Discount and Perks program

We are focused on building a diverse and inclusive workforce. If you are excited about this role and are not confident you meet all the qualification requirements, we encourage you to apply to investigate the opportunity further.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value each person's unique background, diversity, experiences, perspectives and talents.

Full participation of all employees in a safe, healthy and respectful environment is key to individual and company success. We are committed to fully utilizing the abilities of all our employees and expect each of our employees to honour this commitment in their daily responsibilities.