POSITION SUMMARY

The Ditch Rider position will have one set of job duties during water season & another during the off season. During the water season (April-October), the Ditch Rider is responsible for delivering water to their area or “ride.” They will work closely with the District’s Water Master as well as its patrons. Work performed will involve ordering and delivering water, maintaining a good set of records, driving canal roadways, watching for problems, and reporting issues immediately. Removing all debris from the delivery system, keeping watch for gopher activity, and setting traps. During the off-season (November-March), Ditch Riders work on the maintenance crew. They will work with the Foremen to repair delivery systems, pour concrete, lay pipe, and complete outstanding projects.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is, at times, very physically demanding.

• A Ditch Rider works primarily in the field, involving approximately 80% fieldwork and 20% office work.
• Fieldwork requires walking long distances across sloped, uneven terrain.
• Work could be in inclement weather, including exposure to the sun in 100+-degree weather and below-freezing temperatures.
• Frequent repetitive movements, especially with hands, fingers, and wrists, to grasp, turn, and use tools.
• Regular bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
• This position may require crawling over, under, and into small spaces.
• Sometimes carry and use equipment and supplies weighing 50 lbs. or more.
• This position requires extended off hour availability for “On Call”/call backs during the irrigation season (April to October), and there may be weekend and evening hours. Hours will vary considerably during periods of high winds and/or heavy rains.
• This position also involves periodic travel to meetings and training and may occasionally require an overnight stay of more than one day for conferences.

 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES/Job Tasks

The following is a list of jobs that may be performed by the maintenance employee. However, this is not a complete list of tasks that may be required of the employee.

• Measure and record the amount of water being delivered each day.
•  Drive ride daily and watch for any problems such as seepage, leaks, and gopher holes.
• Remove all weeds and trash from canals, laterals, and drains.
• Report noxious weeds, aquatic growth, and other maintenance work needed.
• Prepare reports in a timely manner.
• Keep accurate records and forms.
• Follow safety procedures and keep a safe work environment.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and vehicle.
• Operate hand and power tools and a two-way radio.
• Practice effective time management techniques.
• Other related duties and responsibilities as required.

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Work independently with little to no supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Understand, use, and communicate technical information.
• Basic Carpentry Skills
• Fundamental computer knowledge
• Must be eighteen (18) years of age.
• A valid Driver's License is required.
• Availability & flexibility with hours/days of the week during water seasons