Utility Services Specialist

Tacoma Public Utilities is establishing an eligible list for Utility Services Specialists that will be used to fill vacancies for one year. Tacoma Water has an immediate vacancy.

A Utility Services Specialist acts in a lead role on assigned projects and performs a variety of technical office and field work involving new and updated services and project coordination for Tacoma Power or Tacoma Water. In this role, you are responsible for complex technical work on service installations and projects, as assigned. Work entails responsibility for aspects of design, consultation, estimation, and technical direction.

This includes numerous contacts with contractors, engineers, technical staff, other divisions, departments, and outside organizations.

• Coordinate and prepare layouts and estimates for services, projects, and related activities from pre-established construction standards. Apply design specifications and standards to assigned projects.
• Perform and participate in the preparation of service and plat layouts, feeder or main extensions, and cost estimates. Determine types and locations of field-installed materials and equipment; schedule and assign work to assure completion of projects according to established time lines.
• Create work orders for overhead and underground line construction using established work practices.
• May train and supervise assigned personnel; coordinate, assign, and review work; assist in the selection and evaluation of personnel.
• Responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing the activities of their respective groups and/or assigned work areas.
• Coordinate communication and projects with other City departments and personnel, governmental and private agencies, consultants, architects, contractors, vendors, and the general public.
• Compile and analyze statistical and technical information and data; prepare reports concerning projects and related activities.
• Oversee and participate in construction inspections and review plans and projects to assure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations. Drive to project sites; perform staking, review, and coordination of work.
• Serve as City and departmental representative at various meetings, conferences, and on committees as required.
• Prepare and administer contracts, such as construction contracts, as necessary to complete projects.
• Review and provide recommendations concerning local codes, regulations, policies, and ordinances as directed.
• Respond to questions and complaints from the public and provide technical information related to codes, ordinances, regulations, policies, and projects.

• Graduation from a two-year program in engineering design, construction or related field AND
• Five years increasingly responsible experience in the preparation and coordination of construction projects and staff

* Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education.

• Valid Driver License at time of application with maintenance thereafter
• Employees must be able to pass background check and may be required to obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card
• Employees in this classification may be expected to complete the Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA) Staking Technician certification

Principles and practices of supervision and training.

Technical aspects of field of specialty.

Applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures.

Oral and written communication skills.

Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.

• Perform difficult and complex mathematical computations.
• Design of complex and technical projects.
• Train, supervise and evaluate personnel.
• Assign and review the work of others.
• Work independently with little direction.
• Prepare plans and specifications.
• Oversee and inspect the work of contractors on projects.
• Accurately compile and analyze statistical and technical information, maps and other data.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
• Plan and organize work.
• Meet schedules and timelines.
• Read, interpret, apply and explain codes, rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

Tacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multicultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves.

We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds…