Water/Wastewater Field Operations Technician

Hours/Shift: Monday - Friday 7 AM - 3:30 PM. Overtime and on-call rotation required.

About the role

The Field Operations Technician performs field service duties and a variety of manual, technical, and operational tasks related to installation, maintenance, and repair of water distribution systems.

Responsibilities

• Drive and operate company vehicles and equipment, including dump truck, backhoe, and other field-service tools.
• Break asphalt and concrete using pneumatic tools; excavate valves and curb boxes with hand tools; position pipes, valves, fittings, and related infrastructure.
• Tap into pressurized water mains, install repair clamps, flare and connect service piping, and operate valves, hydrants, and related appurtenances.
• Operate pneumatic and/or hydraulic boring equipment for line installation and repair activities.
• Accurately complete and maintain forms, sketches, field notes, and documentation using maps and system records.
• Read meters as required by daily schedules; perform work in meter boxes, confined spaces, trenches, and excavations.
• Obtain and record water meter readings in the company’s service area to ensure accurate billing of customers’ accounts within established timeframes.
• Measure pressure and flow at meters to detect leaks.
• Perform service turn-ons, turn-offs, and other customer-facing operational tasks in accordance with company procedures.
• Investigate and resolve customer service issues, providing professional communication and timely response.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or a related field preferred.
• 0-2 years’ experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work; prior water or wastewater treatment experience desirable.
• Valid Driver’s License and ability to pass motor vehicle background check; CDL preferred.
• Local travel to various worksites.

Skills

• Ability to learn and understand water distribution system components, including mains, service lines, valves, hydrants, meters, and related appurtenances.
• Understanding of safe work practices applicable to field operations, including PPE requirements, traffic control, trenching and excavation hazards, confined space awareness, and equipment safety.
• Basic familiarity with mechanical equipment used in field service activities, including valves, meters, hand and power tools, and construction equipment.
• Awareness of emergency response procedures related to field operations and the importance of timely reporting and escalation.
• Ability to perform basic measurements and calculations and accurately record field data with attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly report equipment issues, safety concerns, and customer service matters.
• Ability to work collaboratively with operations, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and external contractors.
• Ability to read and interpret basic maps, plans, and utility drawings.
• Basic understanding of piping systems and mechanical principles related to water distribution work, with awareness of electrical safety practices.
• Basic computer proficiency, including use of mobile devices and software for work orders, meter reading, and field documentation.
• Ability to follow established procedures and escalate abnormal conditions or emergencies according to company protocols.

Work Environment

• Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, and varying weather conditions.
• Potential exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, and sewage.
• Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• May work in buildings, pits, manholes, on scaffoldings, or in confined spaces.
• May be exposed to possible operational hazards including fumes, caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards, and electrical equipment.
• Must be able to perform essential functions and meet the physical requirements of the position, including ability to stand, climb stairs, walk, and/or sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, pull, and move tools, equipment, and materials up to 80 lbs.
• Involves crouching, stooping, and kneeling for extended or repeated periods.
• Must be able to safely drive a company vehicle for extended or intermittent periods in varying conditions; frequent entry and exit of vehicles.
• Overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and/or on-call assignments required depending on operational needs.