Seasonal Utilities Laborer

About the Utility Operations Division

The Utility Operations Division is responsible for operating, maintaining, and improving the water, natural gas, sanitary sewer, and storm water systems in Duluth. These four utilities consist of nearly 2,000 miles of mains with the city of Duluth. Utility Operations staff work continuously to ensure that the systems are functioning properly. When repairs are needed, they are prioritized to ensure that safe and reliable utility service is provided.

Utility Operations purchases natural gas from the wholesale market for residential, commercial, and industrial use. The Division also manages the Water Treatment Plant to produce drinking water for use in Duluth and surrounding communities.

Seasonal Employees are eligible to work from April 1 - November 1 of each year and appointments will last no longer than 1,040 hours per calendar year or 185 consecutive calendar days, whichever occurs first. Seasonal employees are not eligible for employee benefits, except that seasonal employees receive full time off with pay for the holidays recognized in the Basic Unit contract that fall within their seasonal period of employment;

seasonal employees who work on those holidays will receive compensation at a rate of 1½ times their current hourly rate for each hour worked. Seasonal employees accrue one hour of paid leave for every 50 hours worked; unused paid leave will be converted into cash and paid to the employee upon employment separation each season.

To assist in operation and maintenance of City utilities.

• Perform routine maintenance checks on vehicles and equipment.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance as required.
• Prepare and assist in operation of equipment used in sewer line maintenance, including high‑pressure jet rodder, mechanical rodder, and other equipment.
• Prepare work sites with proper barricades, warning devices, and traffic control.
• Assist in the installation and rehabilitation of sewers, culverts, catch basins, and manholes.
• Prepare job sites by breaking street surfaces, assisting in the excavation of materials, and placement of shoring equipment.
• Assist in the restoration of excavation sites including patching streets, pouring sidewalks, landscaping, and sodding.
• Assist in water main and hydrant repair and maintenance.
• Remove debris and obstructions in drainages.
• Assist with installing and maintaining traffic control devices and barricades.
• Assist with grass mowing at lift stations, pump stations, reservoirs and wastewater holding basins.
• Assist Closed Circuit Television crew with scheduled and emergency sewer and storm inspections.
• Assist with job site safety for co‑workers and residents.
• Operate a variety of hand tools and power tools including pressure washers, pipe threaders and impact drills.
• Be an effective team member by exhibiting self‑motivation, supporting other employees in handling tasks, interacting effectively and respectfully with others, showing a desire to contribute to the team effort, accepting assignments willingly, and completing tasks within agreed upon timelines.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Experience in utility construction or maintenance preferred.

Must possess and maintain a valid Minnesota driver's license or equivalent.

Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated based on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass this exam will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.