Utility Jobs - What Are They and How to Get One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A utility worker performs general maintenance tasks, often for a public space or a plant that oversees a public utility, like power or water. These positions usually require physical labor and lifting, and depending on the industry may include the operation of specialized equipment or vehicles. Typical duties involve cleaning facilities, repairing and maintaining equipment, and more. Alternatively, a food service utility worker helps with basic restaurant operations. Their responsibilities often include cleaning dishes, maintaining equipment, and prepping food in the kitchen.

A food service utility worker assists with a variety of tasks in a kitchen or restaurant. While they do not typically cook food, common job duties include things like slicing meat, chopping vegetables, brewing coffee, grounds keeping, and equipment maintenance. A food service utility worker may also clean dishes, transport things to and from storage, and operate equipment like mixers, ovens, or grills. Qualifications for a food service utility worker vary by restaurant, but this is typically an entry-level position.

Maintenance utility workers offer maintenance services in a variety of industries, including construction and manufacturing. These jobs are also common in the public utility industry, which includes water, gas, and power. Utility maintenance positions often require physical labor and lifting, and depending on the industry may include the operation of specialized equipment or vehicles. Common duties include cleaning facilities, repairing and maintaining equipment, and more.

A utility engineer or utilities engineer typically works at a water, gas, power, or energy-producing company. Their duties often include updating energy distribution grids, predicting changes in energy needs, making sure equipment is updated and clean, developing plans to restore power in case of outages, and overseeing daily operations. A utility engineer may also manage project teams and technicians, collect data, and monitoring utility systems. Career qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in engineering and experience in the field.