Water Distribution Operator Trainee

IF A CONDITIONAL OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT IS MADE, APPLICANT(S) MUST SUCCESSFULLY PASS A BACKGROUND SCREENING, PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TEST AND PHYSICAL (IF REQUIRED BY THE POSITION). ADDITIONAL TESTING IS REQUIRED FOR SPECIFIED POSITIONS AND POLICE DEPARTMENT APPLICANTS.



DEPARTMENT: Public Works

JOB SUMMARY: This position assists in the general maintenance and repair of the water distribution system and associated facilities while being trained to become a Water Distribution Operator.

SAFETY: Employee responsible for adhering to all safety procedures and regulations established by the Department, the City and all State and Federal organizations. Any safety concern should be reported to a supervisor immediately.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Assists with the maintenance and repair of the City's water distribution system and associated facilities
• Installs and repairs water service lines, water meters, meter boxes, main line valves, and fire hydrants
• Assists with the installation of water service taps
• Records readings from water meters using a hand-held computer
• Takes manual readings from water meters and records data accurately
• Responds, investigates, and acts on customer inquiries and complaints
• Operates heavy machinery, construction equipment, and commercial vehicles utilized in the operation and maintenance of the water distribution system
• Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Knowledge of methods and practices used in the operational and maintenance functions of public water supply and distribution facilities.
• Knowledge of the methods and practices used in repairing and maintaining water transmission systems.
• Ability to operate and utilize machinery and equipment related to water distribution system maintenance and repair, such as backhoe, power wrenches, power saws, excavator.
• Utilize basic computer word processing and spreadsheet applications for the purpose of record keeping.
• Ability to accurately record and interpret water meter and pressure gauge readings.
• Ability to use and understand basic mathematical concepts such as: adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, simple fractions and percentages.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers.
• Develop and maintain positive public relations with a strong emphasis on customer service.
• Ability to respond to emergencies 24 hours per day and to serve in an on-call status

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The supervisor assigns work with instructions that are detailed and specific. The supervisor spots check completed work for compliance with established procedures.

GUIDELINES: Guidelines include OSHA, local, state and federal regulatory guidelines for public water systems, City and departmental policies and procedures. Most of the guidelines are clear and concise.

COMPLEXITY: The work consists of related duties connected with ensuring proper water meter readings are completed. Workload is not complex but can be heavy.

SCOPE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this position is to acquire accurate readings from the water meters and to assist as necessary with the maintenance of the water systems. Errors can cause mistakes in billing, disruption of service and jeopardize the quality of water provided. Successful work results in the City providing customers with quality services without interruption.

PERSONAL CONTACTS: Contacts are typically with other department personnel and the general public.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: Contacts are typically to give or exchange information and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts heavy and light objects.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is typically performed outdoors. Employee is exposed to noise, dirt, grease, irritating chemicals, insects and inclement weather.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED
• One year of work experience that includes semi-skilled mechanical/maintenance responsibilities; including contact with the general public
• Ability to become a Water Distribution Operator I within one year.
• Valid South Carolina Driver's License