Utility Operator II

DEFINITION

To perform a wide variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the construction, maintenance and repair to the water distribution and sewage collection systems.

Receives direct supervision from the Utility Supervisor or Senior Utility Operator.

Exercises direct supervision of Utility Operators in the absence of a Sr. Utility Operator.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Available to work week-ends and holidays and respond to emergency call outs.
• Lead a small crew, assign and participate in utility construction, maintenance and repair work, keeping work records, and prepares reports of completed work.
• Operate a various sizes of track excavators, loader backhoes, trenchers, horizontal boring machines, pneumatic equipment, dump trucks, high pressure sewer cleaners, sewer inspection equipment, vacuum/water jet rudders.
• Perform repairs and maintenance on water mains, fire hydrants, water valves and water meters, sewer lines, manholes and cleanouts and related appurtenances.
• Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.
• Inspect, test, and operate portable pumps, portable generators and related gas driven equipment valves, fittings, meters, and related water production and distribution and sewer collection equipment as assigned.
• Remove and install meters as necessary. Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.
• Perform repair work to the water and sewer collection systems and related appurtenances operations
• Operate a utility crew and report mechanical or other problems. Maintain keep crew truck orderly manner.
• Respond to water leaks and sewer stoppages reported by the general public.
• Update drawings and maps.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

For indefinite periods of time - mobility within an office and field environment; exposure to chemical, toxic waste, dust/mites, fume, odor, explosive, electrical and mechanical hazards; exposure to extreme cold, heat, height and constant noise; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; squatting; sitting; seeing; running; pushing, pulling, lifting, dragging, and carrying up to 80 pounds; kneeling; reading; decision making; reaching above shoulder level;

using both hands for simple and firm grasping; clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively, in person and by two-way radio; fine finger manipulation; operation of a backhoe, trenching machine, jackhammer and all hand tools; operation of a motor vehicle through city traffic.

Knowledge of:

• Basic construction and maintenance methods, procedures, tools, equipment, supplies and materials of water and sewer utility systems.
• Safe work practices under hazardous conditions.
• Operation of a variety of construction equipment.

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of construction, repair, and maintenance tasks.
• Work under routine and emergency conditions, sometimes in severe weather.
• Operate light equipment and learn to operate heavier construction equipment.
• Work efficiently and safely with others.
• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions and directions.
• Perform a wide range of physically strenuous tasks as required.

One year of utility related construction or maintenance experience preferred.

High School Diploma or GED preferred. Possession of a valid Class “B” CDL, or ability to obtain in six months.

* Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

* Duties, responsibilities and action may change at any time or without notice.

The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity and Affidative Action Employer.