Stormwater Maintenance Worker I/II

Performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks and equipment operations involved in the inspection, construction, maintenance and repair of storm drain infrastructure to ensure sustainability and functionality of stormwater assets and public waterways.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class performs a variety of semi-skilled tasks and equipment operations involved in the inspection, construction, maintenance, and repair of the stormwater system and related facilities. The Stormwater Division is responsible for the maintenance and repair of over 80 miles of stormwater pipes, 2,000 catch basins and inlets, 12 BMP’s, and 100 miles of curb and gutter. Work involves storm drain inspection and maintenance, cleaning storm drains and catch basins, ditch maintenance, pipe repair and maintenance, removing grass and vegetation around drainage easements, and related maintenance duties. Work also involves assisting in the street maintenance and repair including asphalt patching, paving and repair work on potholes and utility cuts; street resurfacing; pouring and finishing concrete; mowing grass and rights-of-way; street sign maintenance and replacement; trimming limbs and shrubs cut to maintain obstruction-free sightlines; sidewalk maintenance and repair; and assisting other divisions of the department. Work requires the operation of medium and heavy equipment including dump truck, tractor, mowers, back hoe, skid steer, concrete saw, chain saw, weed eater, leaf blower, and other operating power and hand tools to complete daily assignments. Work requires the ability to walk and stand for long periods of time, perform duties in heavy traffic, and work as part of a team in a variety of weather conditions.  Employee is subject to hazards in street maintenance work including working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as noise, proximity to moving mechanical parts, vibrations, dusts, mists, fumes, oils, tight quarters, and narrow passageways.   Work is performed under regular supervision in accordance with specific instructions and within defined procedures.  Work is reviewed while in progress and upon completion for adherence to instructions and established standards.

Performs a variety of semi-skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance and repair of stormwater system infrastructure. 

Assists in installation, maintenance and repair of stormwater inlets, drain pipes, catch basins, manholes, and related public infrastructure. 

Inspects drainage structures, inlets, and ponds for damage, blockages, or illicit discharges; determines location of drain stoppage; clears obstructions utilizing specialized equipment such as water jet, power rodder, and related equipment.

Performs storm drain maintenance; repairs sink holes; cleans storm drains, catch basins, culverts, and pipes using hand tools, shovels, and vacuum equipment.

Cleans in and around stormwater structures; removes brush and vegetation from ditches and retention ponds; mows high grass and weeds along right of ways; prunes and removes trees on drainage easements; picks up debris and litter.

Prepares excavation sites for stormwater removal and drainage collection line maintenance and repair; removes and replaces damaged pipes and reconnects pipe section; inspects pipe joints before backfilling and packing excavation.

Maintains and repairs curb and gutter; sets forms; mixes cement and concrete; pours, places and finishes concrete; lays and maintains brick pavers.

Repairs erosion near and around stormwater infrastructure. 

Assists in the maintenance and repair of asphalt to patch potholes and resurface streets; cleans and levels road surfaces prior to asphalt replacement; prepares asphalt materials; spreads asphalt using and/or operating rollers, compactors, and asphalt saws; assists in seal coating operations. 

Operates a variety of medium and heavy equipment including backhoe, skid steer, loader, roller, excavator, tractor, chainsaw, hand tools, and various equipment and hand tools in the performance of tasks. 

Sets up safety barricades, cones and signs to control traffic around work sites and ensure safety of the crew and the public; may flag traffic around construction sites.

Operates power equipment involved in landscaping and grounds maintenance including tractor, bush hog, mowers, weed eaters, trimmers, and related equipment.

May respond to after-hours emergencies such as flooding or downed trees during severe weather. 

Performs routine vehicle and equipment checks for proper operation; checks oil and other fluid levels and tires.  

Receives and completes work orders with tasks performed; responds to citizen requests and complaints regarding stormwater infrastructure.

Assists other department divisions as needed; assists other City departments as requested.

Operates a City vehicle to travel to and from worksites.

Performs related duties as required.

Knowledges Skills and Abilities

Working knowledge of construction, repair and maintenance of streets, sidewalks, storm drains and related facilities, including concrete and masonry construction and finishing and asphalt work.  

Working knowledge of the functions, work procedures, and layout of the City stormwater removal and drainage collection system.

Working knowledge of the occupational hazards and applicable safety precautions associated with stormwater removal and drainage collection systems.

Working knowledge of the safe use, operation and preventive maintenance of assigned equipment.

Working knowledge of the proper placement of street signs and traffic safety signs and cones.

Skill in the operation of a wide variety of large trucks and heavy equipment in tight locations around traffic and overhead utility lines.

Skill in the use of specialized stormwater collection equipment and power tools, including plumbing tools related to the work.

Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles and equipment.

Ability to identify maintenance and repair needs of equipment and make minor repairs.

Ability to prepare simple records of work activities.

Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, other employees, and the general public.

Ability to operate in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.

Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time, perform duties in heavy traffic and under adverse weather conditions, and work as part of a team in a variety of weather conditions.

Desirable Education and Experience

Graduation from high school and some experience in concrete or asphalt construction and/or heavy equipment operation/construction experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirement

Possession of, or ability to obtain a Class B driver’s license in the State of North Carolina.

Administering the Class: Employees in this class may be eligible for a promotion to a Stormwater Maintenance Worker II (or a Senior Stormwater Maintenance Worker) classification as well as a 5% (approximately) increase within the assigned salary range upon obtaining a commercial driver’s license and other required skills and experience as determined by the City.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, hearing, and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally; 50 pounds frequently; and/or up to 20 pounds constantly to lift or otherwise move objects. Must possess the visual acuity for depth perception, night vision, inspection of small parts and/or defects, operating motor vehicles or equipment and for determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, read gauges, and make written records.