Water Field Technician - Public Utilities

About the Role

The Pipeline Repair Crew will perform complete utility work including maintenance, repair, installation, construction, flushing, flow testing, and disinfection on the county’s potable and reclaimed water distribution systems and their appurtenances. The crew is responsible for emergency response to mainline breaks, and will handle pipelines ranging from 1‑inch to 42‑inch, install and repair hydrants, valves, meters, air release and backflow prevention devices, and conduct underground utility inspections and surveys.

• Execute utility maintenance, repair, installation, and construction tasks.
• Flush, test, and disinfect potable and reclaimed water distribution systems.
• Perform utility inspection, discovery, and location services, including underground work.
• Construct and install air release valves, backflow prevention devices, meters, boxes, and related equipment.
• Operate specialized equipment such as vacuum trucks, sewer‑flushing devices, rodding, jetting, TV evaluation, and flow meters.
• Respond to emergencies involving mainline breaks and other critical incidents.
• Support Fire Department operations by maintaining and repairing county fire hydrants.
• Assist in right‑of‑way maintenance and restoration related to utility repairs.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License at the time of hire.
• State of Florida Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A with Tanker N endorsement, or ability to obtain within 6 months.
• For Technician positions: minimum 2 years of related experience in operations, maintenance, or construction.
• For Trainee positions: no prior experience required; training available.

• May occasionally lift or move more than 50 pounds.
• Must be fit tested for a respirator.
• Subject to a pre‑employment substance screening; failure may result in disqualification for 5 years.

• Starting pay: $18.09/hour for Trainee; $20.10/hour (Step
  1) for Technician, with potential for higher pay based on experience.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Florida Retirement System.
• 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days, and 16 paid vacation days in the first year, increasing with service.
• Wellness program with free gym access and classes at Sarasota County facilities.

Regular (Budgeted) position with required on‑call duty Monday‑Friday 7:00a.m. – 3:30p.m.

Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs, or activities. The county is a Tobacco‑Free/Drug‑Free Workplace and follows ADA compliance. All qualified applicants, including those with disabilities, are encouraged to request reasonable accommodations during the application process.