Entry Level Manatee County Utilities Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $20.68 - $35.50 Hourly
Location : Bradenton, FL
Job Type: Full-Time (Hourly)
Job Number: 26-00026
Department: Utilities
Opening Date: 01/05/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
General Information
Work Location: 4520 66th Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34210
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm (Standby on rotation required).
Expected Starting Hourly Range: $20.68 - $25.84
This classification performs a variety of entry level, semi-skilled, or skilled maintenance, construction, and/or mechanical tasks involved in the continuous operation of Manatee County's Water Distribution Systems.
Note: Position level and salary will be dependent on qualifications (DOQ).
Working Conditions
Indoor/outdoor situation; high noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting up to 80 lbs. alone; up to 100 lbs. with assistance.
Job Description
Essential FunctionsThese are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.
Duties range from performing trainee-level through skilled and lead duties related to the repair and maintenance activities in the Distribution Section of the County's Water Treatment facilities.
Performs and/or assists with skilled and semi-skilled tasks in maintaining, repairing and operating related equipment and facilities, wells, pump stations, etc.; high pressure water transmission mains (54" to 3/4" diameter) and local distribution lines, services, meters, fire hydrants and other appurtenances; performs construction layouts and establishes grades for all types of utility installations.
Performs and/or assists with operating and maintaining appropriate service equipment including Utility service trucks, backhoes, dump trucks, equipment trailers, loaders; metal cutting and welding equipment; hydraulic and pneumatic presses, tapping machines, valve operators and wrenches; trenching machines; boring machines; pipe cutters; dewatering systems; pumps; alignment tools; locating and leak detection devices and a wide variety of powered and unpowered hand tools.
Performs and/or assists in supervising installations, rebuilds, and repairs of water pipelines, vaults, valves, fire hydrants, meters, and backflow preventers; isolates water lines for repairs, inspection, or construction; forms and pours concrete; rebuilds and restores all types of roadways, curbs, and sidewalks; adjusts valve box rims and covers to grade; installs, rebuilds, and repairs wide array of pumps, electrical generators and other mechanical equipment in the County's Water system, water storage reservoirs, well fields, and pump stations; performs building and grounds maintenance as needed.
Performs and/or assists in organizing and preparing parts, equipment, and tools for the day's work; maintains daily work records and completes reports on work activities; ensures job site safety through traffic control and equipment location; is "competent person" on job site for purposes of confined space and excavation safety rule compliance in absence of maintenance supervisor; fills out work orders; responds to after-hours emergency repair calls.
May train new technicians in the proper use of required equipment and serve in a "lead" capacity when required.
Communicates clearly, effectively and tactfully, orally and in writing, including understanding and following instructions and other materials (i. e., manuals, schematics, maps, etc.)
Reads, interprets and follows pertinent blueprints, utility maps, as-builts, and record drawings.
Performs other related work (including weather or extreme emergency duties) as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Tech IA - III:
High school graduate or equivalent certificate of competency or will obtain equivalent certificate of competency (GED) within one (1) year of hire. Participation in a rotating Stand-By/On-Call schedule required.
Required Work Experience:
Tech IA:
No experience is required.
Tech IB:
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in repair and maintenance or installation of mechanical equipment in a utility or closely related system.
Tech II:
Minimum of three (3) years' experience in repair and maintenance or installation of mechanical equipment in a utility or closely related system; one (1) year back-hoe experience.
Tech III:
Minimum of five (5) years' experience in repair and maintenance or installation of mechanical equipment in a utility or closely related system; three (3) years back-hoe experience.
Licenses/Classifications:
Tech IA:
Must obtain "Confined Space Certification" within one (1) year of employment. Must obtain Level 3 Distribution System Operator License within eighteen (18) months of hire.
Tech IB:
Level 3 Distribution Systems Operator License; Confined Space Entry, Bloodborne and Waterborne Pathogen Safety Course certification.
Tech II:
Level 2 Distribution Systems Operator License; Confined Space Entry, Bloodborne and Waterborne Pathogen Safety Course, Basic Pump Maintenance, Basic Welding, Traffic Control Safety certification.
Tech III:
Level 1 Distribution Systems Operator License; Confined Space Entry, Bloodborne and Waterborne Pathogen Safety Course, Basic Pump Maintenance, Basic Welding, Traffic Control Safety, Cross Connection Control, and Trenching and Shoring certification.
Driver's License:
Must possess and maintain valid Florida Commercial Driver's License, Class A OR obtain CDL permit prior to employment.
All levels require a valid Florida driver license prior to start date.
More
Prior work experience in plumbing, construction, or mechanical repairs desired.
Experience with directional bore machine, highly desired.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Tech II and III:
Ability to effectively oversee and train others.
Knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, water treatment and pumping equipment, water distribution, reclaimed water distribution principles and practices of maintenance, repair or construction of same.
Knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn safety and health precautions associated with confined space operations; underground trenches and excavations; heavy equipment operation; traffic control; mechanical and chemical equipment repair; electrical and internal combustion driven machinery; hazardous chemical and fluids handling.
Attention to detail and follow protocols correctly and accurately.
A problem solver - you will identify issues, research, and implement solutions to ensure the water distribution system is operating properly.
Ability to read, write and speak English; ability to understand and follow oral or written directions communicated in English.
Ability to distinguish colors and sounds. Ability to lift and carry up to 80 pounds. Ability to climb and descend steps, ladders, etc.
Ability to kneel, bend, stoop, crawl, reach, push, pull and perform other physical requirements commensurate with demands of position.
Ability to perform physical strenuous work in varying and adverse weather conditions; uneven or rugged terrain; and safely operate equipment under variable conditions including rough, uneven, slippery terrain.
Skill in the operation and maintenance of tools and equipment assigned. Manual dexterity to operate hand and power tools.
Additional incentive pay for working in the Water Distribution section:
Tech IA: $.50/hour
Tech IB - Tech II: $1.00/hour
Tech III: $1.50/hour
Veterans Preference
In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.
EEO/ADA Statement
Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.
Drug-Free Workplace
Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.
Emergency Response/Recovery Activities
All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
Full Time Positions
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

• ComPsych- offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
• Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.

Wellbeing Benefits:

• Wellness/Health Coaches (5 Free per year)
• On-site Fitness Centers for you and your dependents with 24/7 access
• Personal Training (5 Free per year)
• Pharmacy Technician
• Group Fitness Classes
• Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Management
• Diabetes Care Program
• Registered Dietician (5 Free per year)
• Massages with licensed therapist (small copay)

Miscellaneous Benefits:

• Workers' Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).

Paid Time Off:

• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Personal Sick Leave
• Family Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank (Donated Hours)
• Professional Medical Appointment Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Military Leave
• Military Training Leave
• FMLA

Vacation Award: Applies to employees regularly scheduled to work 8 hours per day/40 hours per week.
Years of Service Vacation Days
0-5 16.25 days
6-10 19.50 days
11+ 22.75 days

• Eligible employees may earn an additional 2 days of vacation through participation in the Manatee Thrives program

Insurance:

• Award-winning Health Plan with deductibles as low as $0.
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Prescription Insurance
• Life Insurance (6 times salary at low cost)
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance

Retirement:

• Florida Retirement System (FRS) with Pension Plan and Investment Plan options.
• 457b Tax Deferred and ROTH account options through Voya.
• FRS Webinars
• Free financial guidance with licensed, non-commissioned financial planner

Career Wellness:

• Professional Leadership Programs
• Instructor-Led and eLearning Training
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Career Counseling
• Toastmasters
• Networking Membership (Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance)
• Employee Recognition Programs with monetary and time-off awards

Education Benefits:

• Tuition Reimbursement eligible after six (6) months of Public Service, including GED reimbursement.
• Continuing Education support through Training/Seminars and Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexible Spending Account:

• Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.

Permanent Part Time - Benefits
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
• ComPsych - offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
• Workers' Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Fitness Center Access for employee only
• FRS options
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).
Paid Time Off:
• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence are based on an 8 hrs./day 80/hrs.
per pay-period basis, any work schedule less that this will be earned on
a pro-rated basis
01
VERY IMPORTANT - When answering supplemental questions about experience, education or certification, please be sure the information is reflected in the Education, Work Experience and Certificates and Licenses sections of your application.
Must include Monthly Salary, Name of Employer, Location, Phone Number and Duties for each employer in Work Experience.
Note: "See Resume" is not acceptable.
Identify all gaps not related to medical reasons.

• I acknowledge the above statement

02
If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please check category of eligibility

• A disabled veteran who is eligible for receiving compensation under pu...