Utility Worker

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Department of Public Works Superintendent or Parks & Land Preservation Superintendent and the Lead Utility Worker, performs the work required to construct and maintain water and sewer systems, and operate, maintain and repair Township property.

Essential Job Functions

• Performs basic preventive maintenance on a variety of equipment, tools and facilities.
• Operates a full range of public works vehicles, equipment and tools and maintains equipment, machinery and tools.
• Responds to complaints or inquiries from the public under the direction of the Lead Utility Worker.
• Assists with the removal of snow and ice, and the application of salt, sand and other preventive materials as directed.
• Maintains and constructs water and sewer systems.
• Maintains parks, land preserves, pathways, grounds, and facilities.
• Performs related work as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to respond to emergency situations at irregular hours.
• Ability to critically assess situations, solve problems, work effectively under stress, within deadlines, and in emergency situations.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, and to understand and carry out oral instructions.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgement, initiative and resourcefulness when dealing with employees, project contractors, representatives of other governmental units, professional contacts, other Township administrators, and the public.
• A State of Michigan Vehicle Operator's License. Preference given to applicants with a Commercials Driver's License. A Commercial Driver's License with an "A" and "N" endorsement or must be obtained within six months.
• Two or more years of experience in operating heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of water and sewer and facilities, grounds and parks maintenance.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of the safety practices, equipment, methods, and materials utilized in the maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants and parks, grounds and facilities.
• Basic knowledge of the maintenance practices and procedures utilized for assigned equipment.
• Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles, equipment and power tools.
• Skill in performing basic maintenance tasks on assigned equipment, buildings and facilities.
• Skill in operating related tools and equipment, including computerized systems.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly lifts and/or moves objects of moderate and occasionally very heavy weight.
• Exposed to moving mechanical parts.
• Exposure to outside weather conditions, including extreme heat or cold and wet and/or humid conditions.
• Exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals.
• Risk of electrical shock.
• Vibration.
• Noise level in the work environment can range from moderate to very loud.