Water Distribution Specialist

Overview

The City of La Crosse is accepting applications for a full-time Water Distribution Specialist to become an essential member of the Water Department. It is the responsibility of the Water Department to install, operate, repair, and maintain the wells, reservoirs, water main, service connections, fire hydrants and the main pumping station within the city. The individual in this position will work with a dedicated team of employees who work together to provide sufficient quality water for the City of La Crosse.

The purpose of this position is to be part of a crew which repairs and maintains the water distribution system, so customers have quality, sufficient water with minimal interruption. Incumbents in this class regularly operate motorized excavating, construction, and maintenance equipment. Equipment varies but includes backhoes, dump truck, and other assigned equipment. Work focuses on the operation & maintenance of the municipal water supply distribution system.

This position works under the general supervision of the Assistant Superintendent of Water Distribution.

Starting wage for this non-exempt position is $25.75 per hour (80 hours bi-weekly).

• Repair, maintain and install water mains, pipe joints, valves, services and branches while maintaining the quality of the water.
• Perform hydrant repairs for various models in the water distribution system.
• Load and transport equipment, tools and materials used for utility repairs and maintenance.
• Prepare sites for excavation, including setting up barricades and other traffic control.
• Operate excavating equipment, such as backhoes and skid steers, to prepare sites for construction, paving, utility installations/repairs, flood control, landscaping and other public works.
• Operate a variety of public works maintenance equipment (backhoe, dump trucks, pumps, hand tools, etc.).
• Monitor equipment operation for malfunctions and notify supervisory personnel regarding repairs; perform routine maintenance such as fueling and lubrication.
• Assist with field repairs or perform minor repairs to equipment in the field.
• Maintain clean work sites and perform preventative maintenance, including valve exercise, hydrant testing, rehabilitation repairs, locating and marking appurtenances, and leaks.
• Provide site preparation for excavation and traffic control; assist with trench excavation and bracing equipment as needed.
• Request and participate in on-call rotation and may work alternative shifts or extended hours to meet utility needs.
• Record maintenance and repair work in appropriate electronic and paper records and assist with data entry.
• Participate in safety trainings and implementation.

• High school diploma or equivalent, with training in excavation, road construction, plumbing, utility work; or any combination of education and experience providing equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• A valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), minimum Class B, with Tanker Endorsement, or ability to obtain CDL within 60 days in position; CPR and First Aid certifications required within one year of hire.

• Backhoe or front-end loader operation experience
• Water distribution system piping and appurtenances repair and maintenance experience
• Knowledge of underground construction practices and procedures
• Knowledge of construction safety principles and practices
• Ability to understand basic mechanical aptitude concepts and basic plumbing
• Ability to utilize a computer or tablet, including spreadsheets, database software, GIS maps and other programs as needed

The City of La Crosse offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical benefit plans, Wisconsin Retirement Plan, deferred compensation, Roth IRA, life insurance, accident insurance, income continuation insurance, voluntary dental and vision plans, paid holidays, vacations, and sick leave. Benefit perks: traditional or high deductible (with HSA) medical plan options available; participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System with 7.20% employer contribution;

10 paid holidays, ability to earn up to 12 sick days per year, and vacation time available as of date of hire.