Utility Worker I

This position is responsible for work activities involving the construction, installation, maintenance and repairs of the City Water Distribution System.  Operates department vehicles and may be trained to operate backhoe, trencher, front-end loader, valve turner, spoils vacuum, and compacter.   Works under supervision of the Superintendent, or Crew leader/Foreman as assigned.

• Assists in the construction, installation, repairs, and/or maintenance of the water system; to include, but not limited to, water towers, water lines, mains, valves, fire hydrants, meters, meter enclosures, taps, and all equipment necessary to disperse water.
• Replaces or repairs water meters and conducts special meter readings.   Checks for leaks.
• Flushes water lines and hydrants as required.  Changes broken and unsafe lids, maintains meter can enclosures for safety purposes and efficiency in operation.
• Performs maintenance activities to department grounds and facilities.
• Maintains all personal and department equipment in a good condition and uses good safety practices and procedures when working.
• Responds to emergency calls during off duty hours and assigned on-call duties on a rotating basis.
• May be assigned to run locates for utility companies, contractors and builders as required by State Law.
• May be assigned to shop and warehouse to maintain tools, equipment, inventory purchases, and control.
• May train under a Utility Worker II.
• May be assigned to test, repair, and certify city backflow devices.
• Operates City service truck in performance of duties.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Some knowledge of methods and materials used in construction and maintenance activities.  Some knowledge of chemicals, chemical usage, and storage.  Skill in the use of hand tools and equipment.   Ability to understand verbal and written instructions.  Ability to follow safety practices and procedures.  Ability to communicate with City employees and the general public. 

Education, Certification and Experience: High school diploma or GED.  Employee shall test to obtain Class I Drinking Water Certification within 6 months of meeting eligibility requirements.  The employee shall have successfully obtained Class I Drinking Water Certification within one year of the first examination. One year of experience in a building, craft trades or job requiring mechanical skills.   Requires a valid Kansas driver’s license with a good driving record.  Employee must be eligible to obtain KS Class B CDL license with Air Brake endorsement within 6 months of employment.

Environment: Work is performed in all types of weather.  Majority of work is performed outside.  Works in extreme, moderate, and temperate cold and heat, snow, ice, hail, sleet, rain, high, & gusting winds, and dust outdoors.  Possible exposure to chemicals, i.e., chlorine gas, etc..  Indoor work is performed in a controlled environment in the shop area. Surfaces: Asphalt, concrete, sand, gravel, rock, water, slippery grass, and mud outdoors.  Concrete, wood, and tile surfaces indoors.

Physical Characteristics: Ability to lift up to 100 lbs., pull, push, reach, twist, kneel, balance, stand, sit, stoop, squat, bend, walk, computer operation, write, operate equipment, paint, drive, see, hear, load, unload, grip, hold, climb and sweep.