Apprentice Well Maintenance Technician

Salary: $20.34 - $22.55 Hourly
Location : Kalamazoo, MI
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-00016
Department: Public Services Harrison
Division: Public Services-Water Operations
Opening Date: 02/18/2026
Closing Date: 3/3/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Description/Distinguishing Features

The Apprentice Well Maintenance Technician is an entry-level training position involving the maintenance of the potable water well assets using the best practices of lifecycle preventive maintenance delivery.

An employee in this class performs technical and physically demanding in the revitalization, maintenance, and testing of wells, pumps, and motors, evaluating water quality and quantity, collecting water level data, and related work. Routine work also includes the removal and reinstallation of line shaft vertical turbine pumps. Does related work as required. May work with Water Operator/Maintainers, Well Technician I/II, Well Driller I/II, or Well Drilling Contractors.

General assignments are received from the Water Maintenance Supervisor or designee; expected to exercise initiative, sound judgment, and a commitment to safety and water quality standards. Some direction over other workers may be necessary on occasion. This position is an excellent pathway to advance to a Well Maintenance Technician I/II.
Examples of Duties

• A qualified individual with a disability must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Perform cleaning, inspection, servicing, and minor repairs on well components such as pump bowls, shaft bearings, column pipe, and motors.
• Collect water level and water quality data from active and offline wells as directed; prepare and label water samples for laboratory analysis.
• Conduct or assist with well flow testing to evaluate water quality, yield (GPM), drawdown, and pumping efficiency.
• Support well rehabilitation activities such as brushing, swabbing, chemical treatment, and mechanical surge or jetting, under the guidance of senior technicians or contractors.
• Assist in the operation and basic maintenance of a well pump hoist, crane truck, or portable rig used to remove and reinstall vertical turbine pump assemblies.
• Fabricate or modify tools and equipment when standard options are not available; ensure all tools are maintained in safe, working condition.
• Maintain accurate field records and assist in preparing detailed service reports following site visits.
• Observe and comply with all safety and environmental regulations; actively participate in job site safety briefings and hazard assessments.
• Serve as a support technician during contractor-led projects, coordinate work under the direction of supervisor or project manager.
• Assist with mentoring newer team members and contribute to a positive and collaborative team culture.
• Operates trucks in carrying tools, equipment, parts, and materials/supplies to and from a job site.
• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure continued operation of the water supply system.

Essential Qualifications

• High School Diploma with a minimum of three (3) years of technical experience in a related field required.
• Good working knowledge of occupational hazards and related safety practices.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perform duties in a timely manner.
• Must have good oral and written communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of computer operations;
  General knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Demonstrates a sense of urgency, prioritizes well, shows energy, responds to opportunities, instills urgency in others, and meets deadlines.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with other workers and the public.
• Ability to gather, analyze and interpret data.
• Ability to read maps and blueprints.
• Some knowledge of well drilling, rehabilitation, testing equipment, techniques, and materials.
• Good knowledge of pumps and motor maintenance.
• Some knowledge of water quality, disinfection, and sampling principles.
• Some knowledge of the water distribution system.
• Ability to keep records and make appropriate reports.
• Experience with or ability to efficiently learn to operate the well pump hoist or drilling rig to effectively remove and re-install line shaft vertical turbine pumps.
• Ability to teach job related knowledge and skills.
• Ability to pass the entry level general aptitude test with a minimum score of 70%.

Acceptable Training and Experience

• Ability to pass a city-paid physical and a drug screen.
• Possess a valid Michigan driver's license. Possession of a CDL Class A License preferred (not required).
• Must be available to work overtime as assigned on an on call rotational basis.

In-House written exam required.
The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the…