The Wolf Creek Reclamation District is hiring a Water Master to manage the irrigation system. Pay is $25 per hour to start.
The position is open until filled.
The full position description, including how to apply, is copied below.
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Wolf Creek Reclamation District
Water Master
Position Description
Wolf Creek Reclamation District (WCRD) is an irrigation district formed in 1926 to supply water to more than 700 acres near Winthrop. WCRD is managed by a three-person Board of Directors and holds water rights to Wolf Creek and Little Wolf Creek in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Water is delivered to shareholders through a system of open ditches and piped canals with Patterson Lake as the main reservoir.
Description
The Water Master is responsible for water delivery to WCRD shareholders consistent with WCRD policies and procedures. The position has substantial responsibility for both equipment and facilities as well as coordinating operation of the system with outside parties. Sound judgment is necessary as much of the work is solitary and independent. The Water Master carries out WCRD policies and procedures and will face unique challenges requiring problem solving skills and decisive action.
Essential Functions
+ Assure delivery of irrigation water to shareholders through the operation and maintenance of a headgate, ditches, pipes, dam, screen box, meters and valves.
+ Patrol assigned area by foot or motor vehicle to detect leaks, breaks, weak areas, obstructions or damage to irrigation system; maintain access roads and trails.
+ Conduct releases of water as authorized by the Board.
+ Regularly check and adjust water flow and pressure valves.
+ Regularly check the main head gate and screen box for possible concerns or malfunction.
+ Record daily deliveries, amount of water used and other data required by law or WCRD.
+ Prepare reports on condition of property, assets and, including needed replacement or repair; maintain inventory of property and supplies;
+ Maintain all District equipment including in-line water meters.
+ Identify and obtain needed equipment, supplies and services.
+ Prepare work scopes and contracts for board of directors' approval covering identified maintenance or construction of District infrastructure.
+ Manage work performed by outside contractors including recommending payment.
Attend monthly board meetings and other meetings as required.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position will oversee work performed by contractors or volunteers and may supervise part-time help hired by the board of directors.
Interpersonal Contacts
The Water Master will have frequent contact with the Board of Directors, board Secretary and WCRD shareholders. The Water Master also will coordinate with outside contractors and agencies with regulatory authority over WCRD operations including the U.S. Forest Service, the Washington Department of Ecology and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Tact, responsiveness, and ability to handle interactions and ability to clearly communicate are essential.
Education
High school diploma or GED.
Qualifications
+ Working knowledge of farm-scale irrigation -- open canals and piped systems -- with an understanding of basic hydraulics and water measurement techniques, or the capacity to quickly learn.
+ Experience with outdoor work, equipment use (small backhoe or excavator) and skill with welding and cutting tools is preferred.
+ Ability to assemble and maintain irrigation pipe components, pressure regulating valves and water meters.
+ Ability to read a survey or map showing WCRD easements and infrastructure.
+ Physical ability to lift heavy items, shovel, stoop, bend, push and pull large items in a safe manner.
+ Ability to operate motor vehicles, equipment and tools safely and in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and work rules.
+ Basic computer proficiency for preparing routine reports.
+ Ability to perform basic math to obtain accurate calculations of water use.
+ Ability to communicate efficiently and proficiently via voice, text, and email.
+ Ability to maintain effective working relationships with regulatory agencies, landowners and cooperating organizations
+ Possess excellent time management skills and ability to efficiently prioritize work tasks.
Working Conditions and Compensation
The Water Master is a part-time, non-salaried, primarily seasonal position.
WCRD will provide compensated job training.
During irrigation season April-October, the Water Master is expected to work four to six hours a day, 7 days a week. Timing of daily work is flexible and may entail longer work hours on individual days to address critical maintenance or repairs. Work beyond 40 hours per 7-day period will be compensated as overtime.
It is expected that the Water Mater be available to address unique or emergency situations at all hours to prevent or mitigate damage to WCRD assets and property, to prevent or mitigate damage to public land or private property, or to minimize the duration of water shut-off to shareholders.
During non-irrigation season November-March, part-time maintenance may be conducted subject to weather conditions and operational needs. The Water Master may be called upon to do administrative work related to WCRD projects.
The Water Master must be a resident of the Methow Valley, preferably near the WCRD service area.
The Water Master must possess and use an appropriate 4WD vehicle for WCRD work and be responsible for fuel and routine maintenance.
Compensation is $25 per hour to start.
To Apply
Send letter of interest explaining qualifications and work history (Include a resume, if available) to:
Hiring Committee
Wolf Creek Reclamation District
PO Box 1365
Winthrop, WA 98862
Position is open until filled.