Utility Aide - Operations

Nature Of Work

This is an entry level training position in technical utility field work designed for high school graduates and college students to experience an in-depth look at the water and wastewater industries and gain a broad range of skills leading to licensure qualification in the State of Michigan. Duties include performing lower-level work in either the wastewater and/or water distribution systems. Specific work assignments include the performance of routine functions assisting various staff to acquire a basic knowledge and understanding of the regular operations of the systems.

Expectations of this position include successful completion of the formal training programs provided by the departments created to establish core competencies in both systems. Work in this position is performed under the close guidance and supervision of a designated supervisor/mentor and may also take direction from other department staff as required. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job.

Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Provides assistance with maintaining the wastewater treatment plant, water treatment plant, collection, and/or the water distribution system as assigned.
• Participates in work duties and technical tasks with both above and below ground utilities; assists with providing maintenance and repair to water, water distribution, sanitary and storm water sewer pipelines and appurtenances.
• Performs general routine maintenance on collection systems, water distribution piping, specialized heavy equipment, cleaning and cutting tools, entity locating devices, as well as on smaller equipment used to access remotely located utilities
• Provides customer service assistance as needed for the 24 hour operations including, but not limited to, handling lower level customer complaints and/or concerns
• Assists with identifying and assessing water and/or sewer problems and evaluate the degree or extent of damage; applies departmental techniques and methods for using the necessary tools and equipment to do the work such as use of the computer detection and monitoring systems
• Operates a variety of laboratory equipment; records measurements and other data
• Conducts a variety of tests on water in various stages of treatment to ensure that environmental standards and/or drinking water regulations are met; tests sludge and other treatment parameters; collects samples; prepares re-agents, standards, and test solutions used in the testing process
• Cleans, maintains, and stores equipment, tools and instruments; washes sample containers; cleans and dusts laboratory equipment, countertops, and glassware
• Participates in developing and implementing an industrial pretreatment program
• Participates in developing and implementing a water cross connection control program
• Performs responsible technical work inspecting and regulating water pollution problems.
• Performs related work as required

Required Education

• High school diploma (or GED equivalent)

• Michigan driver's license

We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid Parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Please Note: This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules.