Utilities Operator in Training

City of McFarland

Utility Technician in Training

Department: Public Works

Reports To: Utilities Manager or Designee

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $21.07 - $26.97

Status: Full-Time

Open: Until Filled

Position Summary:

The Utility Technician in Training is an entry-level, trainee classification designed for individuals pursuing a career in water and wastewater operations. Under close supervision, incumbents receive on-the-job training in the basic functions of utility systems maintenance, repair, and operation. This position is intended to prepare individuals to obtain State certifications and progress into the Utility Technician I classification.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This is a temporary pre-certification position. Employees must obtain required certifications within 12–18 months of appointment to be considered for advancement.

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed at this level. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to Utility Technician in Training classification. Duties may vary depending on assignment and operational needs.

Essential Duties:

Participate in basic tasks related to the construction, maintenance, and repair of water distribution and wastewater collection systems, including digging, backfilling, compacting, and site cleanup.

• Receive training in confined space entry, trench safety, lockout/tagout procedures, and traffic control. Follow all safety procedures while working in or around hazardous conditions or equipment.
• Learn to safely operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, valves, pumps, flushing equipment, and other utility maintenance devices.
• Assist with the flushing of hydrants and exercising of valves as directed to maintain system flow and performance.
• Observe and assist certified staff in collecting water samples for bacteriological and chlorine residual testing from designated sampling points throughout the distribution system.
• Assist in locating and marking underground utility lines as part of the Underground Service Alert (USA) program.
• Support water meter reading, removal, installation, and troubleshooting under supervision, including turning water services on and off as directed.
• Assist with maintaining written and digital logs, forms, and records of daily work, including maintenance performed, locations visited, and equipment used.
• Help clean, inspect, and restock service vehicles and tools at the start and end of each shift to ensure readiness for the next day’s work.
• Actively participate in on-the-job and formal training sessions to prepare for required certification exams and to develop knowledge in utility system operations, water quality regulations, and maintenance techniques.
• Serve in a support role during utility emergencies (e.g., water main breaks, sewer overflows), including after-hours and weekend calls under direct supervision.

Demonstrate Professional Growth:

Show initiative in learning new tasks, seeking clarification when needed, and demonstrating readiness for advancement to Utility Technician I through progress in training, performance, and certification achievement**.**

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Utility Technician in Training

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid California Class C Driver’s License
• Ability to obtain:
• Grade I Water Distribution/Treatment Distribution Certificate and Grade I Wastewater Distribution/Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board within 18 months
• Confined space and CPR/First Aid training

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

The City of McFarland offers an excellent benefit package including:

• Comprehensive City paid medical, dental, and vision benefits for the employee and Dependents
• Life insurance equal to 1-year base salary with a minimum of $50,000
• Retirement: Deferred Compensation 401(k) -The City of McFarland contributes an additional 10% of an employee's pay each pay period into a 401K plan, at no cost to the employee. The City is not a PERS (Public Employees Retirement System) agency.
• Supplemental life insurance (Optional)
• Deferred Compensation 457 Plan (Optional)
• Section 125 plan participation
• 12 days' vacation and 12 days sick pay accrued annually
• 12 Days Holiday Pay
• 9/80 Work Schedule- every other Friday off

APPLICATION: To apply, please complete and application online at www.mcfarlandcity.org. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a City employment application. To be considered for this position, please submit a complete employment application and resume.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of McFarland is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), requests for special accommodations during any stage of the examination process should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.

Additional Information

All City employees are designated Disaster Service Workers and may be required to respond to emergencies or disaster-related activities.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid California Class C Driver’s License
• Ability to obtain:
• Grade I Water Distribution/Treatment Distribution Certificate and Grade I Wastewater Distribution/Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board within 18 months
• Confined space and CPR/First Aid training

Pay Range:

$21.07-$26.97