Cochrane is located in the breathtaking Bow Valley corridor in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in southern Alberta. With a population of over 37,000 people, and growing steadily every year, Cochrane is a thriving town, surrounded by world-famous ranch country. Our western heritage is reflected in the Town’s architecture and our friendly people. The Town of Cochrane welcomes innovative and skilled individuals to join our team of over 250 employees.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a highly motivated operator to add to our dedicated Water and Wastewater Utility team. This individual will bring strong operational knowledge, has a real passion for our industry, wants to contribute to a positive workplace culture and grow their career in our community. Does this someone sound like you?

Who are we?

Cochrane currently has 260 employees taking great pride in delivering services to our community. Our dedicated Utilities team provides a 365-day a year operation at the forefront of these services. As an organization, Cochrane is focused on investing in people to develop highly skilled individuals and a positive organizational culture. We make a point of celebrating our successes while providing an environment for learning and growth. As an organization we focus on transparency, critical thinking, curiosity, reflection, and innovation.

Our Utilities team consists of 18 highly skilled professionals who provide services in water treatment, water distribution, and wastewater collection. Our team operates and maintains a complex membrane filtration water treatment plant, numerous potable water reservoir and pumping facilities, wastewater lift stations and over 250 kilometers of underground infrastructure.

Why build your career with Cochrane?

In addition to a beautiful landscape, scenic Rocky Mountain views, a diverse community full of culture, we can offer you opportunity. Opportunities for career growth, development, and advancement. Competitive public sector compensation packages and a work life balance for you to be able to support your family and lifestyle. Our organization is committed to providing a supportive, transparent, and inclusive environment where everyone can feel safe and have fun while they are at work.

Salary range: $47.11 – $49.14 per hour based on level of certifications.

Working hours: Average of 40 hours per week, 2080 hours per year, required to participate in on-call rotation, overtime available on an operational needs’ basis.

What skillset is the Utilities Team looking for?

Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid AEP Level III Operator Certificates in Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection
• Knowledge of applicable municipal, provincial, and federal standards
• Ability to interpret and understand engineered drawings
• Proficient in the use of GIS systems
• Class 5 drivers’ license
• Proficient in the use of MS Office suite
• Heavy equipment operation skills and experience
• Assist in fundamental equipment maintenance
• Strong understanding of basic understanding of water systems operation
• Strong applied math skills
• Strong data interpretation abilities
• Safe use of hand tools, small and large equipment
• Basic plumbing and pipe fitting skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Water/Wastewater technical post secondary training or equivalent
• A valid Alberta Class 3 drivers license and air brake endorsement
• Confined Space Entry and Rescue training Level II
• Fall Protection training
• H2S Awareness training
• Ground Disturbance training

Operator III Position Summary:
Reporting to the Lead, Utilities, the Operator III Utilities is responsible for the day-to-day operation of all functions within water treatment, water distribution, and wastewater collection systems. This role involves providing operational leadership and guidance, ensuring safe work practices, and compliance with legislated requirements and may be periodically expected to act in the Lead position. The Operator III will also play an integral role in the operational oversight of the risk management and asset management function.

The position requires a proactive approach to ensuring operational efficiency and supporting continuous improvement. As a senior position in the department, the Operator III is expected to demonstrate leadership by example, promote safety in all activities, and ensure Cochrane maintains adherence to current engineering practices and legislative requirements as well as safe work procedures.

Disclaimer:

• If Cochrane is unable to find a suitable, fully qualified candidate for the position, a training opportunity or opportunity at a lower level of qualifications may be considered. This could include a position at entry level.

Still interested? Here’s how to apply:

• Qualified individuals are encouraged to submit your resume, and a cover letter stating how your experience match the required qualifications, skills, and abilities for this position.
• All qualified candidates will be requested to complete an online suitability survey.
• Applications for this position will be accepted until 9:00pm MST October 19th,2025 at www.cochrane.ca/jobs

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applicants must be legally entitled to live and work in Canada.

Land Acknowledgement

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.