This is the entry/journey level class in the Field Maintenance Worker class series. Incumbents assigned to this class initially perform routine and closely related duties under close supervision. However, as experience is acquired, they are expected to work independently exercising judgment and initiative. The Water Utility Worker I is distinguished from those in the Water Utility Worker II and Senior Water Utilities Worker class in that the former does not frequently perform the most complex and difficult field maintenance duties, provides constant lead supervision to other field maintenance personnel, nor frequently operates heavy equipment in the most difficult and responsible work situations.

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include, but are not limited to the following characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. 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 the class. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Independently, or as a member of a crew, perform a variety of semi-skilled work in the installation, repair, and maintenance of the City water system.
• Operate heavy construction equipment in routine situations, including backhoes, loaders, dump trucks and trenchers.
• Locate, excavate and repair leaks in water lines and mains.
• Install, maintain and repair hydrants, valves, meters and meter boxes.
• Use light equipment such as concrete saws, tappers, compactors, and jackhammers as well as a variety of hand tools.
• Read water meters; maintain appropriate records.
• Assist in the repair of pumps, booster stations, and other water system facilities.
• Tap water lines, turn on and shut off water service as directed.
• May operate the City water system; monitor and ensure adequate water levels in storage facilities; take samples and keep appropriate records.
• May perform backflow device inspection and testing duties.
• May administer the Cross-Connection Control program.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to operate equipment and machinery requiring complex and rapid adjustments, such as the use of hand tools, mechanical equipment, power tools, and the operation of vehicles in a safe and effective manner.
• Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing semi-skilled movements, such as assembling.
• Ability to exert heavy physical effort in moderate to heavy work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling.
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move 50 - 70 pounds.

Mathematical Ability:

• Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide.

Judgment and Situational Reasoning Ability:

• Ability to apply functional reasoning in performing routine functions following clearly prescribed standard practices.
• Ability to exercise judgment required in situations characterized by repetitive or short cycle operations covered by set procedures or sequences.
• Ability to mix chemicals and cleaning solutions.
• Ability to assemble, copy, record and transcribe data and information, following a prescribed plan; ability to compare, count, differentiate, measure and/or sort data and information.

Language Ability and Interpersonal Communication:

• Ability to utilize and comprehend a variety of reference data and information, such as billings, letters, production orders, operating instructions, schedules, records, basic maps and blueprints.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English language, spoken and written, with coworkers and the general public.
• Ability to explain, demonstrate and clarify to others within well-established policies, procedures and standards, as well as the ability to follow specific instructions and respond to simple requests.

Environmental Adaptability:

• Ability to work under mildly safe and uncomfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors, such as temperature variations, odors, toxic agents, violence, noise, vibrations, wetness, machinery, disease and/or dust may cause discomfort and where there is a risk of injury, requiring extended recovery time.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors with varied environmental demands.