Sewer Maintainer I (full-time term)

OPEN DATE:         February 18, 2026

CLOSING DATE:   4 pm Monday, March 2, 2026

DEPARTMENT:     Infrastructure Services

DIVISION:           Operational Services

SECTION:             Waterworks

REPORTS TO:       Waterworks Supervisor 

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About The Organization:

Come live, work and play in paradise! Located along the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Powell River is a contemporary hub that balances abundant, natural beauty and a surplus of adventures with growing industry sectors in technology, retail, and tourism. Located just a 90-minute ferry away from Vancouver Island, within the traditional territory of the Tla'amin First Nation, Powell River offers a mix of urban and rural living in a temperate climate. It’s known for an unparalleled outdoor lifestyle, a vibrant arts community, and four seasons of recreational adventures to explore.

JOB SUMMARY:

The incumbent assists with the maintenance and regular flushing of sanitary sewer and storm sewer mains and related systems.  The incumbent is required to work outside in all weather conditions and is exposed to biohazards as a regular part of the role.  Assumes the duties of the Sewer Maintainer II during their absence.  Performs related duties. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direction of the Sewer Maintainer II, maintains City sewer and storm sewer infrastructure by:

• Assisting with the flushing of sanitary sewer and storm sewer lines using power flushing equipment to ensure that free flow conditions are maintained;
• Inspecting and repairing manholes assessing the condition of the manhole benching, pipe joints, manhole risers, frames, and lids;
• Assisting with trouble calls involving municipal or residential sanitary sewer or storm sewer mains;
• Locating underground municipal utilities by using tracing equipment;
• Carrying out dye testing of sanitary sewer or storm sewer lines;
• Attending division safety talks, crew talks and required safety training;
• Following safe work procedures and reporting actual and potential hazards, injuries and near misses;
• Operating equipment such as a high pressure sewer flushing unit, hydro excavator, pipe inspection camera, small hand and power tools and underground utility location equipment;
• Operating City vehicles;
• Assisting in the maintenance of treatment facilities, as needed;
• Assisting in the maintenance of water distribution and wastewater collection infrastructure, as needed.

Performs physical activities such as:

• Pushing, pulling or carrying heavy objects up to 50 lbs.;
• Working in confined spaces;
• Walking, standing, stooping, kneeling, and crouching;
• Being exposed to noxious odors, raw and/or treated sewage, and dirty working conditions;
• Working outside in all weather conditions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Training:

Grade 12 diploma.  Valid BC Class 3 driver’s license with air brake endorsement.  E.O.C.P. Wastewater Collection Level 1 certificate.  E.O.C.P. Water Distribution Level 1 certificate. 

Ability to obtain the following training within the trial period: Traffic Control Person certificate. W.H.M.I.S. certificate.  Confined Space Entry training.  Shoring and Excavation training.   

Experience:

Two (2) years of related experience as required for E.O.C.P. Level 1 Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection certificates.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Sufficient physical strength and stamina to perform the required duties. Ability to safely use the tools and equipment related to the work. Knowledge of WorkSafe BC regulations, occupational hazards and safe work procedures at they related to the position. Demonstrated ability to follow safe work procedures. Ability to recognize, report and/or rectify actual and potential safety hazards. Knowledge of confined space procedures. Ability to work within and contribute to a positive team environment. Ability to approach work and relationships in a culturally sensitive and inclusive manner.  Current knowledge of the City’s computerized systems, administrative systems and office technology as required. Ability to effectively utilize GIS software and schematics related to underground utilities.

PAY RATE:

This is a union position with the current pay rate of $37.03 per hour as outlined in the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 798 Collective Agreement.

HOURS OF WORK:

7:30 am – 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week

How To Apply:

If you are interested in this position:

1. Complete the questions contained in the application below.  NOTE: CUPE members must use their correct seniority date.  After completing the questions, click "Next".
2. Attach a cover letter and a resume as separate PDF or Word documents.  This is a mandatory requirement of the application process. 
3. Attach copies of degrees, diplomas, and certifications if applicable in one single PDF or Word document.
4. IMPORTANT: Each applicant must use an email address unique to them.

 We thank all applicants for their interest, however, we may choose to only acknowledge those applicants selected for interview.

The City of Powell River is an equal opportunity employer.

Applicants may be required to participate in formal testing and interviews and to provide documentation to demonstrate and support their qualifications.