Utility Line Mechanic

GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONING OF WORK:

Performs responsible semi-skilled work in the installation, replacement, repair and maintenance of water and sewer lines and appurtenances.

An employee in this class performs a variety of semi-skilled work as a member of a crew engaged in the construction, installation and repair of water and sewer lines.

• Work involves the operation of construction equipment in the installation, replacement and repair of water and sewer pipes to specific grade and depth.
• Operates video camera to film sewer lines.
• Work includes making taps to water and sewer system.
• Employees are subject to working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, vibration, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, and oils.
• Work is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on blood borne pathogens. Employees are also subject to on-call and call-back work.
• Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated through observation and inspection for adherence to instructions and standard trade and safety practices.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:

The employee may perform a combination of some or all of the following duties and other duties which may be assigned by the Town of Smithfield.

• Operates tapping machine to make water and sewer taps and service connections.
• Lays water and sewer pipe; adjusts pipe to proper grade and depth following stakes.
• Repairs and replaces sewer and water lines and related facilities.
• Installs, services and tests water meters and meter yokes.
• Operates the sewer rodder and pressure jet to unstop sewer lines.
• Operates front end loader, dump trucks, jackhammers, tampers, pipe threading machines, tapping machines, trenchers, air compressors, and boring machine.
• Installs hydrants, meter valves, clamps, and related pipeline apparatus; sets meter boxes; repairs and replaces fire hydrants.
• Participates in establishing proper signing and barricades for work zone safety.
• Adheres to safety policies and procedures with other crew members.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of the tools, materials and equipment used in the installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of utility lines.
• Working knowledge of a variety of maintenance and manual methods and tasks involved in the installation, maintenance, repair and replacement of utility lines and appurtenance.
• Working knowledge of the use of common hand and power tools.
• Working knowledge of the safe use and operation and preventive maintenance of common automotive and mechanical equipment.
• Some knowledge of the municipal water and sewer service policies and procedures.
• Skill in the operation of a loader, dump truck, and other construction equipment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the public.
• Ability to read utility line maps and operation and service manuals, and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School Diploma or GED with 2 years’ or fewer experience in plumbing or general construction with experience in operating heavy and medium equipment and trucks; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must be able to read and follow utility line maps, operating and service manuals, and written instructions.
• Possession of a valid North Carolina Commercial driver’s license, CDL preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally; 50 pounds of force frequently; and 20 pounds constantly to move objects.
• Must possess the visual acuity to operate mobile equipment such as the backhoe and dump truck in a safe manner.