Public Service Worker - Utility Operator

Job Summary:

The Public Service Worker- Utility Operator is responsible for performing a variety of scheduled preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of water, sewer and storm water systems.

Scope of Impact:

The duties and responsibilities of this job are performed with latitude for independent judgment in accordance with Department and City policies, Federal, State and Local regulations and are based on detailed knowledge of Department operations. Work is subject to periodic review by the supervisor, who provides input on and approval of recommendations, and discusses assignments, priorities, and work.

• Performs preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of water, sewer and storm water systems.
  1. Installs, cleans and repairs sewer mains, manholes and storm water lines;
  2. Cleans and maintains lift stations;
  3. Assist in operating and maintaining water treatment plants, pumps, water towers and reservoirs;
  4. Reads and replaces water meters;
  5. In emergency and routine situations, answers questions, resolves concerns, and provides information to residents and the general public via telephone, email, mail and in person;
  6. Repairs and maintains fire hydrants;
  7. Reviews and evaluates computer data for monitoring equipment functionality, modifies as appropriate;
  8. Troubleshoots and initiates response to problems such as water main breaks, alarms, and sewer backups;
  9. Makes recommendations on purchase of Department equipment and supplies;
  10. Operates city equipment and vehicles, including, but not limited to: tracked excavator, loader, skidsteer, sewer cleaning equipment, and snow removal equipment;
  11. May work as part of a utility maintenance team;
• Drives to sites in response to routine ticket requests, emergencies, and relocates.
• Utilizes the provided mapping tools, online GSOC ticket management system and other information, along with locating equipment, to locate underground utilities including but not limited to:
  1. Water main
  2. Sanitary sewer
  3. Storm sewer
  4. Fiber Optics
• Indicates utility locations through the utilization of paint and flags and communicates other relevant information to excavation personnel or other appropriate authorities.
• Cleans and maintains vehicle and all issued equipment.
• Communicates courteously and professionally and maintains working relationships with others in carrying out job functions.
• Communicates with others relating to work assignments and progress of work or to convey information about conditions or work related needs.

• Performs other duties and activities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

The job requires a high school diploma and two years of experience working with water treatment plant operations, or equivalent experience, and training, experience and continuing education sufficient to progress as required under Edina’s CDP (Career Development Program). The employee must also possess or obtain a valid Class B commercial driver’s license, with endorsements, within six months of hire.

Desired Qualifications:

APWA Public Works Administration Diploma/Certificate and Class B or above, water and sewer licenses, and heavy equipment experience, and knowledge of municipal utility operations are desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Desirable for Successful Job Performance:

• Knowledge of practices and techniques used to maintain, repair and troubleshoot municipal utility systems and equipment;
• The ability to lead and provide work direction to employees;
• Demonstrates the desired standard of conduct and work performance including confidentiality and privacy requirements of the department;
• Verbal and written communication skills sufficient to effectively present information and respond to questions from a wide variety of audiences, and reading comprehension skills sufficient to read, understand and interpret varied work-related materials;
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to exchange and/or convey information, receive work direction, and maintain effective working relationships.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

This job is performed primarily in the field, in normal or inclement weather, with exposure to fast moving traffic. Work may be dirty and greasy. The employee is required to lift up to 100 pounds on a regular basis, climb ladders, crawl, and must wear personal protective clothing and equipment, and there is frequent exposure to hazardous chemicals, sharp tools, high levels of noise, and slippery surfaces.

Position contingent upon background check, medical exams and drug testing.

Working Conditions:

This job is performed primarily in the field. The job may involve dealing with and calming individuals who are emotionally charged over an issue. The normal workday is 8 hours, however, each employee may be required to work overtime or respond to after-hours call backs if requested including but not limited to (i.e. significant snow or ice events).

Some requirements in this job description may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. All requirements are subject to modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and experience required. To perform this job successfully, the worker must possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently.

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" employment relationship. The City retains the discretion to add duties or change the duties of this job at any time.