Water Distribution Laborer

The City of Lawrence Utilities is seeking a Water Distribution Laborer.

The Water Distribution Department within the Lawrence Utilities Department is responsible for the service and maintain of 220 miles of water main, 5,000 water valves, and 2,200 fire hydrants.

Responsible for performing daily operational tasks; and required to be in an on‑call rotation. Will be required to report to work after hours during emergencies related to utility infrastructure failures, snow removal tasks or other emergencies as declared by the Department Manager/Foreman, Utility Superintendent and/or Director of Operations. Experience in the water maintenance field is preferred but not required.

• Repair service lines leaks and water breaks.
• Maintain and repair water valves and hydrants.
• Perform concrete work when needed.
• Inspect new infrastructure projects for water and sanitary sewer installations.
• Properly perform all assigned work in a thorough and competent manner within reasonable time frame.
• Responsible for all personal safety equipment, other equipment, and tools issued by the City to perform assigned tasks; shall ensure that said equipment and tools are in good working order, operate safely.
• Must be able to drive and operate a motor vehicle to and from various job sites.
• Will be required to be on call after hours. This will sometimes include weekends and holidays.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by Department Manager, Director of Operations or Utility Superintendent.
• Required to perform work in trenches, and confined spaces.
• Shall be trained in Permit Required Confined Space Entry.
• Occasional customer service‑related tasks to assist customers and citizens of the City of Lawrence; polite and courteous behavior is always expected.
• Crosstrain and assist Utilities Department and other departments as necessary.

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

• Safety
  - Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, and safety regulations related to equipment operation, and other work‑related precautions.
• Judgment and Decision Making
  - Uses logic and reasoning to analyze, understand, and evaluate complex situations. Identifies the strengths and weaknesses of alternative approaches or solutions to a situation. Exercises appropriate judgment in establishing priorities.
• Interpersonal Relationships
  - Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees at all levels, representatives from various departments, and outside agencies. Effectively responds to and resolves complex inquiries and disputes.
• Computer Skills
  - Utilization of modern office technology, including but not limited to word processing, spreadsheet, and related software with reasonable speed and accuracy, as it is related to the position.
• Communication
  - Excellent ability to listen and understand information presented verbally and in writing. Ability to handle a variety of issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner.
• Coordination of Work
  - Ability to plan and organize a daily work routine and establish priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time‑management.
• Materials – Must have a basic understanding of hand tools and develop knowledge of the specialized tools, equipment, fittings, material, and chemicals relative to the job. Must be able to use, handle and store the above‑mentioned items properly and safely.

• Tasks require the ability to exert moderate, though not…