August 24, 2026
Water Distribution & Maintenance Technician
Primary Work Location: Murdo, South Dakota
West River/Lyman-Jones Rural Water System (WR/LJ) is seeking a dependable, self-motivated individual to join our operations team based in Murdo, South Dakota. This full-time position is responsible for operating, maintaining, repairing, and constructing a regional rural water distribution system serving homes, farms, ranches, businesses, and communities throughout western South Dakota.
Primary Responsibilities
- Install, maintain, and repair water mains, service lines, valves, hydrants, and other distribution system components.
- Install and maintain water meters and service connections.
- Inspect, operate, and maintain pumps, pressure reducing stations, storage facilities, and related equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs.
- Operate construction equipment, service trucks, trailers, and various power and hand tools.
- Locate underground utilities and assist with excavation activities.
- Maintain accurate maintenance and operational records.
- Participate in weekend and holiday on-call rotation.
- Provide courteous, professional service to WR/LJ members.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience in water utilities, construction, public works, agriculture, plumbing, mechanical maintenance, or heavy equipment operation is preferred but not required.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Valid South Dakota driver's license required; CDL or the ability to obtain one is preferred.
- Ability to obtain South Dakota Water Distribution and Treatment Operator Certification within 18 months.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
- Excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement, paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
- Paid training, certification opportunities, and career advancement.
- Stable, year-round employment.
Apply Today
Application available at wrlj.com under News & Notices
Submit a completed employment application and resume to:
West River/Lyman-Jones Rural Water System
PO Box 407
Murdo, SD 57559
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. West River/Lyman-Jones Rural Water System is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
July 21, 2026
Due to ongoing severe drought conditions, the West River/Lyman-Jones Rural Water System (WR/LJ) is operating at maximum capacity. To ensure an adequate water supply for essential domestic and livestock use, WR/LJ is implementing mandatory outdoor watering restrictions.
These restrictions are effective immediately and will remain in effect through September 30, 2026.
Outdoor Watering Restrictions: Outdoor watering of lawns, trees, gardens, and landscaped areas is prohibited between 8:00 a.m. and 8 p.m.
- Even-numbered physical addresses: Water only on even-numbered days of the month.
- Odd-numbered physical addresses: Water only on odd-numbered days of the month.
- No outdoor watering is permitted on the 31st day of any month.
Exceptions: These restrictions do not apply to manual watering using a handheld hose, bucket, watering can, or similar container.
Domestic and Livestock Use: These conservation measures do not restrict water use for domestic household needs or livestock.
WR/LJ appreciates your cooperation in conserving water and using the available supply as efficiently as possible during this period of drought. We will continue to monitor weather conditions and system demands. If drought conditions persist or worsen, additional water conservation measures, including stricter outdoor water restrictions, may be implemented if necessary.
If you have any questions, please contact the WR/LJ Murdo Office at 605-669-2931.
*SPECIAL ATTENTION*
Customers in the Grindstone Area and Kadoka Rural Area will remain under Critical-Level Water Restrictions. Please click on the red underlined areas for details on the affected areas and the applicable restrictions.
