Dam Maintenance Mechanic

Job Status: Permanent, Full-Time

Compensation: $39.13 (starting) to $47.62 per hour

Number of Positions: 1 new position

Location: UTRCA, London, with travel throughout the watershed

Hours of Work: 35 hours per week, typically daytime hours with some on-call as well as occasional evenings, nights and weekends

Work, Live and Explore: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, OMERS pension plan, and vacation time to support your well-being, plus free access to UTRCA’s beautiful conservation areas (Fanshawe, Pittock, and Wildwood) so you can enjoy nature close to home.

Application Closing Date: August 21, 2026

At the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), our mission is Communities engaged in a healthy, resilient environment. We work in partnership with the 17 municipalities within the Upper Thames River watershed, whose appointed representatives bring both urban and rural perspective to our Board of Directors. Together, we shape policies and programs that reflect the needs of our communities and support the long-term health of our watershed.

We focus on five key areas:

• Protecting people and property and supporting safe development
• Delivering landowner stewardship
• Providing natural spaces and recreational opportunities
• Making science-based decisions
• Empowering communities and youth.

The Upper Thames River watershed spans approximately 3,421 square kilometers and includes predominately rural landscapes, as well as the urban centers of London, Stratford, and Woodstock. We serve a diverse population of approximately 600,000 residents. Our Conservation Areas offer outdoor recreational opportunities that welcome people of all ages and backgrounds, helping to educate visitors and share conservation messages that support the health of our watershed.

As a member of our team, you will support our mission by contributing your skills, knowledge, and experience to meaningful work. We believe diverse perspectives make us stronger and are committed to creating a collaborative, inclusive environment where people feel supported, respected, and encouraged to do their best work together. If this opportunity aligns with your experience and interests, we invite you to apply.

Summary

The Dam Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for maintaining the Authority’s water control structures and related mechanical equipment. This role contributes to the effective management of water resources and supports the protection of communities and property, while promoting a healthy watershed ecosystem.

Responsibilities

• Help ensure water control structures and related equipment are maintained in a safe, functional, and effective condition to support UTRCA operations andobjectives.
• Perform routine and emergency maintenance on Authority water control structures and the hydro generation plant, completing repairs where appropriate and coordinating specialist repair services as required.
• Respond to after-hours, flood, and emergency situations as needed to support operational needs.
• Work collaboratively with contractors, suppliers, and local agencies to support operations and maintenance activities, including emergency repairs, and provide site supervision as required.
• Provide technical guidance and support to Authority staff on mechanical, electrical, structural, and other dam-related matters, and contribute to the development of maintenance policies and procedures.
• Identify opportunities for maintenance projects, modifications, and upgrades to improve operations, appearance, security, and safety; prepare budget estimates and project schedules, adjusting priorities as emergency situations arise.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and documentation related to the operation, maintenance, and repair of structures.
• Operate Authority dams under the direction of Flood Control Staff during normal operations, flood events, and emergencies, including the installation and removal of stop logs. Respond to flood and emergency situations as required.
• Organize and train Authority staff and contracted personnel in routine maintenance, monitoring, and operational procedures.
• Maintain current knowledge of dam maintenance, operation, and construction techniques, products, and practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Seven (7) or more years of experience and training (3 or more post trade certification) in mechanical equipment operations and maintenance, including motors, engines, and heavy electrical installations.
• Experience in general welding, fabricating, machine repairs, general construction techniques and electrical installations is required.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and trades on an ongoing basis.
• Ability to work effectively and safely in a variety of operational environments, including during emergency situations in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Certifications, Memberships, Licenses

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent.
• A relevant trade licence is required; Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) is preferred;
• An All Position Welders Certificate as provided by the WCB, is preferred;
• A valid Ontario Class G Driver’s Licence is required.

Physical Demands

• This position involves a combination of indoor and outdoor work and may require working in varying weather and environmental conditions including during extreme weather events and/or during extended shifts.
• Able to safely access work areas that involve climbing ladders, stairs or scaffolding, and working in confined spaces.
• Job duties occasionally require very high levels of muscular exertion or physical strain.
• Candidates must be able to perform the essential duties of the position.

Apply Now!

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their cover letter and resume to the UTRCA, in confidence, via:

E-mail: [email protected]; or

Mail: 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON, N5V 5B9

Please indicate the position title in the subject line of your email.  We thank all individuals who expressed interest in this role. Please note, only those selected to move forward in the interview process with be contacted.

We are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and equitable work environment that is free from discrimination and fosters belonging.  We encourage and welcome applications from qualified members of the four designated groups, and persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Accommodation is available and will be provided in all aspects of the hiring process as required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and as request by applicants.  Should you require accommodation in making an application, please contact UTRCA by phone at 519-451-2800 or at the email address above.

Personal information collected in relation to the recruitment process is collected under the authority outlined in the Conservation Authorities Act R.S.O. 1990, c. C.27, s. 18 (1) and will be used to determine eligibility for employment. Questions about this collection of personal information should be directed to: General Manager, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 5B9, 519-451-2800.