Overview
The City of Chehalis is hiring a Utility Worker 1 at our Poplar Tree Farm, where you will play a vital role in maintaining the health and productivity of our agricultural operations. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work outdoors in a vibrant farming environment, supporting sustainable practices and crop growth. You will be responsible for assisting with irrigation, plant care, land management, and equipment maintenance, ensuring our farm runs smoothly and efficiently. If you’re passionate about agriculture, enjoy outdoor work, and thrive in a hands-on setting, this role is perfect for you!
The poplar tree farm, located off Hwy. 6, is divided into 11 management units and planted with nine different hybrid varieties. One or two units are irrigated at a time. Most of the water evaporated and any excess infiltrates into the ground. The trees grow eight to ten feet per year and are harvested every ten to fifteen years to make paper. plywood, furniture, etc.
What You Will Be Doing
- Operation, maintenance, repair, and installation of reclaimed water distribution system equipment.
- Planting and pruning the poplar trees.
- Mow, weed, and maintain the tree farm grounds, the wastewater treatment plant, and other public works facilities as needed.
- General building maintenance, both interior and exterior.
- Routine maintenance of vehicles and equipment to keep them operational.
- Clean wastewater tanks, equipment, and related facilities using appropriate methods and protective equipment.
What a Great Team Member Looks Like
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- Assist your co-workers as needed.
- Respond timely to emergencies and operational issues during and outside of regular work hours.
- Take pride in your work, details and the little things matter.
- Show up with a good attitude.
- Enjoys working outdoors, rain or shine!
Required and Desired Skills
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid WA State driver's license with an acceptable driving record
- Pass a background check
- Obtain certifications in city-paid training for Flagger, First Aid/CPR, Confined Space Entry, Trenching and Shoring, and Forklift Operator
Benefits Offered
- Medical, choice of Regence Blue Shield and Kaiser. A family of four is less than $200 a month premium!
- Dental and Vision - free for you and dependents.
- Basic Life Insurance for you and dependents
- Retirement pension (PERS 2 or 3 plan)
- Optional: additional life insurance, additional retirement pension, and AFLAC coverage
Additional Information
- This is a union-covered position
- Position is over-time elgibile and may be part of an on-call rotation
- Hours are Monday-Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm
- Salary is $4,353 - $5,293 monthly
The recruitment closes at 11:59 pm on Sunday, July 12, 2026.
Pay: $25.11 - $30.54 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
