Water Distribution Apprentice​/Operator

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Under the supervision of the Water Distribution Supervisor, the Apprentice position performs skilled and semi‑skilled labor in the maintenance and operation of a water distribution and transmission system, including elevated water towers. Work involves performing manual tasks and operating various mechanical and power tools, along with heavy equipment. Must have and maintain a valid Kansas Driver’s License. A Kansas Commercial Driver’s License – Class B is desirable within one year of employment.

• Installs and maintains water distribution system including pipes, fire hydrants and valves, meters, meter pits and service connections
• Performs maintenance and care of the elevated water towers
• Responds to complaints (i.e. leaks, pressure loss, no water, odor), evaluates situation and completes remediation
• Performs minor electrical and mechanical maintenance
• Reads meters, gauges, charts, etc. to maintain accurate records
• Takes and analyzes water samples
• Performs permit‑required confined space entries
• Performs safe trenching and shoring techniques
• Determines location of all utility lines from appropriate sources prior to excavation
• Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards
• Performs GPS data acquisition pertaining to the City’s water distribution system
• Sets up and takes down appropriate traffic control signs and barricades
• Maintains legible, accurate records of maintenance operations and daily assignments
• Performs scheduled preventive maintenance and repair to department vehicles and equipment
• Provides training for operation of dump trucks, backhoe, excavator and other heavy equipment
• Operates a jackhammer, tamper, hydraulic pumps, air compressor, thawing machine, pipe saw and various other equipment in the construction and repair of water distribution systems
• Keeps workstations clean, orderly, and organized
• Maintains frequent contact with the general public; must answer questions or direct them to upper management in a tactful manner and work well with co‑workers
• Responds to frequent call‑backs and serves periods of on‑call status

• Performs custodial work such as cleaning, painting, lawn mowing and snow removal
• Assists other City departments as needed
• Attends training, professional development, and seminars related to essential job functions or future job functions as required
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required and/or assigned

Experience: Underground utility maintenance or plumbing experience desirable. Employee is expected to acquire the necessary information and skills to perform the job reasonably well after six months in the position.

Education/Licenses: High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. Valid Kansas Driver’s License and be an insurable driver of the City of Wellington.

Technical

Skills:

Ability to proficiently and safely operate various pieces of mechanical and power tools and heavy equipment; follow oral and written instructions; deal tactfully with other persons; communicate effectively and clearly in English orally and in writing; meet deadlines and work under stressful conditions; knowledge and understanding of basic principles of water hydraulics.

Problem Solving: Frequent problem solving; locating existing services; accomplishing efficient valving; measuring pipes and fittings correctly; finding best routes to solutions; establishing safest means of working alongside other underground utilities.

Decision‑Making: Limited decision making; follows direction of experienced staff and standard procedures and guidelines.

Supervision: Works under the Water Distribution Supervisor and the overall supervision of the Assistant City Manager of Utilities.

Accountability: Responsible for efficient use of time and materials; use equipment and materials properly to prevent damage or excessive consumption; report problems immediately to supervisory personnel; not responsible for budgetary control or participation in the annual budget process.

Personal Relations: Occasional contact with the general public and frequent contact with other city employees.

Working Conditions: Some hazardous working conditions.