Pauline Findlay, City of Richmond
“Apply whatever knowledge you have to your work, take the initiative in all areas, and show that you are willing to learn as much as possible.”
Water Distribution
Pauline Findlay, Water Assets
City of Richmond
Pauline has been working in the water assets office for the past 3 years.
What does your job entail?
I keep the office updated with the information that comes in from the field. I work with city hall to keep GIS updated with new information, and everyday I do special reads for the tax department and for the new meter installs.
What other duties do you perform?
I do water consumption maintenance, and assist with locating service lines and finding leaks. I use a variety of equipment such as metal detectors, Mscopes, combo phone, aqua phone and loggers.
What do you like most about your job?
I like doing office work, and enjoy the customer service aspect as well; it’s rewarding helping people. We are able to take as much training as we like, and I really enjoy that I am able to work both indoors and out, especially on a sunny day!
What do you like most about the industry?
There are many benefits to working for Parks and Public Works; we have compressed work days, training, a steady wage, great benefits, solid management and constant opportunities to grow as an individual.
What do you think are good traits for a person in this field to possess?
Good traits to possess are confidence, patience, and enthusiasm. It’s important to be responsible and reliable, and to take the initiative.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Parks and Public Works?
I suggest they take water courses, such as Water 1 or Operator in Training. Apply whatever knowledge you have to your work, take the initiative in all areas, and show that you are willing to learn as much as possible.
What are your career goals?
I plan to eventually work in Parks and Recreation; dealing with customers and putting on community events. My ideal job would be a recreational leader, or to work at a community centre.