Definition
Under general supervision, positions in the Ditch rider 1 classification regulate the flow and distribution of irrigation water to growers, canals, and ditches downstream; respond to complaints inquiries from growers; inspect canals and ditches for leaks or spills; and repair or assist with the repair of leaks.

Examples of Duties
The duties listed below are illustrative only and not meant to be a complete and exhaustive listing of all the duties and responsibilities of the classification.

In Irrigation Season

• Ensure water is delivered to growers within the designated timeframe.
• Regulates headgates, turnouts, and diversions to ensure the maintenance of proper water levels in canals and ditches.
• Records meter readings and staff gauge readings.
• Ensures distribution system remains free from obstructions.
• Advise growers regarding the delivery of water.
• Inspect canals and ditches for leaks and make or assist with necessary maintenance or repairs.
• Verify and document beneficial use of irrigation water/lands.
• Responds to growers’ inquiries and complaints regarding the delivery of water.
• Keeps supervisors informed of problems or issues related to the delivery of water, encroachment and water theft.
• Controls weeds by hand spraying, cutting or removal.
• Maintain records of landowner’s water usage.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Off Irrigation Season

• General maintenance of District facilities, buildings and housing. Construction and repair of concrete structures. Duties related to pipeline construction/repair (under/aboveground) including performing hand labor and use of power hand tools.
• General maintenance and activities.
• Will be evaluated on the duties listed above with emphasis placed on ability to work in a teamwork environment to accomplish many tasks while dealing with a limited timetable.

Typical Physical Activities

• Operates District vehicles in operating and monitoring irrigation water delivery systems.
• Must be able to carry, push, pull, reach, and lift equipment and parts weighing up to 100 lbs.
• Stoops, kneels, crouches, crawls, and climbs during field water delivery work.
• Routinely physically removes weeds and other blockages from canals and laterals with a weed hook or pitchfork and installs and removes check boards from delivery ditches and canals.
• Works in an environment with exposure to dust, dirt, cold swift flowing water, and significant temperature changes between cold and heat.
• Communicates orally with District staff in face-to-face, one-to-one settings.
• Regularly uses a telephone and mobile radio for communication.
• Utilize iPads and water management software to track water deliveries, monitor usage, and maintain accurate records.
• Stands and walks for extended time periods.
• Hearing and vision within normal ranges.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

• Basic hydraulics and water flow.
• Basic arithmetic.
• Mechanical principles.
• Various types of water gates, diversions, and turnouts.
• Methods used in balancing water flow.
• Geography of the local area.
• Tools and equipment used in repairing leaks to ditches and canals.
• Proper work safety standards.

Ability to:

• Respond and resolve complaints from growers.
• Ensure that water is delivered in a timely and equitable manner.
• Make accurate arithmetical calculations.
• Deal tactfully and courteously with growers and the public occasionally when emotions are high.
• Follow oral and written directions.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with co-workers, outside agencies and the public.
• Legible penmanship

Environmental Factors

• Exposure to the sun: 50% to 100% work time spent outside a building and exposed to the sun.
• Work above floor level: Some work done on ladders or other surfaces from 4 to 12 feet above the ground.
• High temp: Considerable work time in hard manual labor in temperatures between 80-100 degrees.
• Humidity: Work in areas with unusually high humidity.
• Wetness: More than 10% of the work time getting part or all of the body and/or clothing wet.
• Noise: Occasionally there are unusually loud sounds.
• Slippery surfaces: Occasional work on unusually slippery surfaces.
• Oil: Some parts of the body in contact with oil or grease occasionally.
• Dust: Works in or around areas with significant amounts of dust.
• Irregular or extended work hours: Occasionally required to change working hours or work overtime.
• Occasionally called out during the night to restart pumps during power outages.

Desirable Qualifications

• Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the necessary knowledge and abilities is qualifying.
• A typical way to obtain knowledge and abilities would be:
  • Education: High School Diploma or GED
  • Experience: Three years of farming experience, or related activity, where canal and ditch irrigation methods were used.

License/Certificate/Registration Requirement

• Possession of a valid Oregon Driver License

Possession and proof of a good driving record as evidenced by freedom from multiple or serious traffic violations or accidents for at least two (2) years duration. The driving record will not contribute to an increase in the district’s automobile rates.

The specific statements shown in each section of this job description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job and meet the needs of the district.