Field Operations Tech 1

General Statement of Duties

Performs various semi-skilled and skilled tasks including installation, inspection, replacement, repair, and maintenance work in the field operations division of the public utility department.

An employee in this class works alone or as a member of a crew led by a supervisor or crew leader. This employee performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks associated with the city's water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Work involves the operation of various hand tools and equipment in the installation, replacement, and repair of collection and distribution pipes to specific grades and depths, and backfilling and compacting of the site. Work also includes making taps to distribution and collection mains, installing valves, cleaning sewer lines, and making repairs to the systems. Occasional public contact is required in making referrals to appropriate staff. Work requires on-call and emergency response after hours as needed to maintain the proper operation of the distribution and collection systems. Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated through observation, compliance with instructions, regulations, and laws, and adherence to safety practices.

Illustrative Examples of Work

Loads, transports, and unloads equipment, supplies, and materials necessary for the completion of each job; inventories upon receipt and return.

Operates tapping machine to make collection and distribution taps and service connections.

Lays collection and distribution pipes adjusting to proper grade and depth following established standards.

Repairs and replaces collection and distribution lines and related facilities.

Assists in the operation of sewer rodding, jet, and vacuum machines to unstop collection lines. Operates closed-circuit television sewer camera.

Operates dump trucks, jackhammers, tamp, pipe threading machines, tapping machines, air compressors, boring machines, pumps, and other related equipment.

Other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of standard practices, materials, tools, and equipment used in the work assigned.

Knowledge of work hazards and applicable safety precautions associated with the area of work assigned.

Ability to operate tools and equipment used in the work assigned.

Ability to perform strenuous work for extended periods. 

Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Ability to read, understand, and apply utility line maps and service manuals. 

Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Work in this position is very heavy work (exerting more than 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects). Physical activities include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions. The employee must have the visual acuity to operate trucks and other equipment. The employee is subject to both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions including extreme cold and heat, noise, vibration, close proximity to mechanical parts, atmospheric conditions, and close quarters. The employee is at high risk of coming in contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids. 

Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license equivalent to a valid Class B commercial driver’s license recognized for operation in North Carolina. Highschool diploma or GED required.

Additional Requirements

May be required to work overtime as needed. Is expected to respond or report to duty in emergency situations, which may occur after hours, on weekends and/or holidays.