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City of Minneapolis

Water Distribution Operator Trainee

City of Minneapolis, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55400

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Public Works Service Worker Trainee This is an entry-level position with no prior experience necessary. Under supervision, trainees will perform manual and semi-skilled work in the maintenance of the City of Minneapolis Water Distribution System and receive support in obtaining their Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate.

Public Works Service Worker Trainee

Public Works Service Worker I

Public Works Service Worker II

Water Distribution Operator

Availability This position may involve shift work, occasional weekend duty, and/or requests to return to work for emergency water main repairs on a 24‑hour basis, in all weather conditions.

Salary Starting salary for this position is $21.625 hourly.

Information Sessions

Public Works will provide information sessions.

Our information sessions offer you the opportunity to go beyond the website and talk to representatives about what skills Public Works is seeking and the application process.

Please visit the link for the information sessions: Information Sessions - City of Minneapolis (minneapolismn.gov)

EEO Statement The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Under supervision, learn about the City's water distribution system and perform work related to operation, maintenance, repair, and disinfecting system components.

Learn how to utilize water distribution related technology tools such as ARC GIS, Enquesta, Star Programmer, and Sono Phone.

Understand the impacts of varying soil profiles and erosion control.

Under direct supervision, turn water service on and off for plumbing repairs, meter issues, or non‑payment of the City Utility bill.

Safely operate crew trucks, tapping machines, concrete saws, valve machines, jackhammers, pipe cutters, and other hand, hydraulic, pneumatic, and power equipment.

Perform manual labor in excavations using appropriate tools and equipment outdoors in all weather conditions.

Assist with locating and marking buried water infrastructure per Gopher State One Call requirements.

Work with crew members to troubleshoot issues and perform leak investigations to resolve water service concerns.

Assist with disinfecting water mains after work is complete.

As training progresses, assist with the operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of water distribution system components such as hydrants, valves, manholes, and water mains to American Water Works Association standards; also install, troubleshoot, test, repair, and replace water meters and automated meter reading devices.

Actively pursue Water Supply System Operator D certification with the State of Minnesota.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements Perform field work in all kinds of weather conditions. Exposure to outdoor elements, gases, fumes, chemicals, dust, dirt, traffic and noise. Perform confined‑space entry/work; heavy physical labor including bending, twisting, stooping, etc. Ability to push, pull, lift, carry, and maneuver heavy items weighing up to 100 pounds. Ability to work in excavations with water main pipe. Must stand/walk/maneuver on rough, uneven surfaces. Position may require compliance with OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard, including maintaining a clean‑shaven face for proper respirator fit.

Required Qualifications Age:

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by Sunday, December 14th, 2025.

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Minimum Experience:

N/A (Related Experience Desirable).

Licenses / Certifications:

Valid driver's license and ability to present proof at the Workplace Simulation Test and at the time of hire.

Obtain a State of Minnesota Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate within 18 months of hire. The City will provide the required training.

Equivalency:

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Background Check The City may conduct a criminal background check and/or qualifications check. Applicants must sign an informed consent form. Failure to consent will result in disqualification.

Pre‑Employment Medical Examination and Drug/Alcohol Test After a conditional job offer, candidates must pass a pre‑employment medical exam, including respiratory, back, and hearing tests, and a drug and alcohol test. Consent is required. Failure to complete or pass will result in withdrawal of the job offer.

Selection Process The process may include a training & experience evaluation and a Workplace Simulation Test (100%). Minimum passing score: 70%.

Interviews will be conducted the week of February 2, 2026, for candidates who have completed the test.

Veterans may receive preference points by submitting DD‑Form 214 or equivalent documentation prior to the application deadline.

Union Representation This position is represented by the collective bargaining agreement between the City of Minneapolis and Water AFSCME Maintenance (CAW).

Eligible List Statement Names of applicants who meet minimum qualification and pass the screening process will be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. The list expires six months after it has been established.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Mechanical aptitude.

Must be 18 years of age or older.

Ability to learn and perform various procedures related to repair and maintenance of water systems.

Ability to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets.

Good interpersonal skills in communicating with residents from diverse communities.

Ability to anticipate the tools and materials required to perform basic tasks.

Ability to follow through on verbal and written instructions.

Ability to become proficient in using mobile computers to complete work orders within six months of hire.

Ability to perform manual labor in all weather conditions.

Ability to climb ladders, kneel, crouch, bend, twist, stoop, and enter confined spaces.

About the City As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. The city offers a variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose—serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.

Equal Employment Opportunity The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer.

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