Water Laborer/Operator
Date Posted: Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Department: Utilities
Compensation: Laborer: $25.59+/hour | Operator: $28.33+/hour
Hours: Monday – Friday 7:30-3:00PM
Deadline: Open until filled
Position Objectives:
Under the supervision of the Lead Operator and the Assistant Public Works Director, the employee will perform a variety of tasks related to the operation and maintenance of the Ripon Water Utility system, including wells, distribution, laboratory work, and sampling.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Collect water samples and conduct routine daily laboratory tests and analyses.
• Assist in maintaining departmental records, including water meters, cross connections, water service information, flushing and valve turning, as well as other records.
• Help operate and adjust water treatment equipment and controls to maintain optimal operational parameters.
• Assist in troubleshooting issues at well sites and within the distribution system.
• Observe variations in operating conditions and learn to interpret changes in readings and test results to determine treatment needs.
• Record daily, weekly, and monthly well numbers and sample results.
• Collect monthly and yearly water samples for external laboratory analysis.
• Communicate with supervisors and other employees regarding concerns and issues related to well processes and water treatment equipment.
• Clean and maintain water treatment equipment, buildings, and properties owned by the water department.
• Read and install water meters in households and businesses and troubleshoot issues with water meters.
• Assist in repairing broken water mains and services under various adverse conditions.
• Work with maps, hydrant and valve records, and GIS for utility locating of water and sewer systems.
• Perform any additional tasks as required by the supervisor.
Minimum Requirements:
• Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, along with basic math skills.
• Curiosity and drive to learn how things work.
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, vendors, regulatory agency employees, and the general public when necessary.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing work demands and prioritize tasks to focus on the most important responsibilities at any given moment.
• Proficient in computer skills.
• Capable of using office equipment such as copiers, and telephones.
• Computer skills in programs such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Desirable Training and Experience:
• The position requires a High School diploma or equivalent.
• Possess valid motor vehicle operator’s license.
• Either possess or obtain Wisconsin Operator Certifications of Groundwater, Distribution, Iron Removal, and VOC removal subclasses within one year of employment.
• Be On-Call for a four-week rotating basis. One week on-call every four weeks.
• Ability to respond to an emergency within 30 minutes.
Benefits:
WI State Benefits (Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance), Wisconsin Retirement System, Leave Benefits Program, training opportunities, and much more!
Mary Vesely, Human Resources Manager
920-602-8026
HR@cityofripon.com
100 Jackson Street Ripon, WI 54971OR apply online by completing our ONLINE APPLICATION.