WATER SYSTEM TECH I

Under general supervision, performs semi-skilled and unskilled work in support of the County Water System plant operation. Work involves the installation, maintenance and repair of water and wastewater lines and fixtures for the County. Employee is responsible for locating water and sewer problems and water and sewer lines; installing, maintaining, and repairing water and wastewater lines and fixtures; and maintaining equipment. Duties assigned to employees in the job title may vary slightly according to needs of the District and/or allocation of workload. Employee is subjected to the usual hazards of working with water and sewer problems. Assists in the repair of damaged water and sewer lines; replaces pipes; performs routine maintenance of water and sewer lines; prepares trenches for new lines by hand digging and by using front bucket of backhoe to pick up spills and load materials into dump truck. Installs water and sewer taps; installs and repairs fire hydrants, water meters, and water valves, and raises or replaces manhole rings and covers. Unearths, repairs and replaces main sewer lines and sewer connections; repairs and replaces manholes. Cleans and maintains vehicles, equipment and tools. Reads water meters; double-checks meter readings as requested; discontinues water service as requested by clients or as required because of non-payment of bills. Performs sampling and testing of water throughout the system; prepares related records and reports. Fills chemical containers; prepares routine reports related to amounts of chemicals used. Answers telephone and receives inquiries in person, providing information based on considerable knowledge of water plant operations and activities, or referring callers to appropriate personnel, as necessary; routes messages for Department personnel, as necessary. Maintains and cleans County facilities and grounds. Performs courier duties as requested. Graduation from high school and some experience in the maintenance field, preferably including experience with water and sewer systems; or any combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.