Job Description

Position Purpose:

The O&M Tech (Collection/Distribution) is responsible for operating equipment and monitoring mechanical performance to ensure the efficient functioning of water and wastewater systems. This role involves performing routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections, as well as responding to customer service calls and emergency utility situations. The technician works both independently and as part of a team to maintain critical infrastructure and meet all required operational standards. Under the direction of Project Management, performs work involving the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the City of Alpena Michigan Water/Sewer Utility infrastructure including the distribution system, sanitary collection system and lift stations, and all related, equipment, buildings and grounds.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

• Strongly prefer a CDL License.
• Operate the Vactor Jet truck to conduct system maintenance and other related duties.
• Conduct Vactor excavations and high-pressure jetting of the sanitary system to maintain flow.
• Perform Utility Miss Dig location marking to identify underground infrastructure.
• Install and program water meters, including reading, servicing, and troubleshooting to ensure accurate billing.
• Monitor equipment performance and operate machinery to maintain facility efficiency.
• Complete work orders to provide documentation of all maintenance activities.
• Respond to customer complaints to address and resolve service concerns.
• Execute sewer and water service calls to maintain utility functionality.
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks to extend the life of system assets.
• Isolate water main breaks by turning valves to mitigate system damage.
• Participate in water and sewer main repairs and service line replacements.
• Collect samples for testing and analysis to ensure water quality standards are met.
• Perform additional maintenance and operations tasks as assigned by supervisory personnel.

Work Environment:

• Climate Exposure: Work takes place outside during adverse weather and climatic conditions for extended periods.
• Noise Levels: Operations are performed in moderate to high noise environments.
• Safety & PPE: Employees must strictly follow all safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols.
• On-Call Status: The position requires 24/7 availability for emergency situations and participation in a regular on-call rotation.

Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background:

• High School Diploma/GED is required.
• Less than 2 years in water utility or public works, distribution, sanitary collections or varied maintenance/operations/construction.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Strong math, writing, and verbal communication skills.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to read, interpret and record data from meters, gauges, panels, computer, and other equipment.
• Computer and cell phone skills, knowledge of Windows, Google, Office.
• Demonstrated proficiency in equipment operations and productivity.
• Experience using hand/power tools and preferably confined space entry.
• Past involvement with safety programs and safe operational activities.
• Availability for emergency situations 24/7 and on-call rotations.
• Must be able to work as a team in a team-oriented environment.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training:

• State of Michigan – Driver's License.
• State of Michigan – CDL class B, class A preferred.
• State of Michigan Water Operator Distribution S-4 or higher, S2 preferred.
• Required to obtain S-4 or higher within 2 years of employment.
• State of Michigan Water Operator Collections certificate achievement when available/required.

Physical Requirements:

• Regular Requirements: The employee is regularly required to talk, write, and hear to ensure effective communication and documentation.
• Frequent Movements: The role frequently involves standing, walking, climbing stairs or ladders, and sitting.
• Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel; reaching with hands and arms; and the ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Sensory Tasks: The employee is frequently required to climb or balance and may be required to taste or smell as part of operational monitoring.
• Heavy Lifting: Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and move rolling sludge hoppers weighing up to 200 pounds.
• Vision: Specific vision abilities required include the ability to distinguish color, close vision, and distance vision.

Additional Information

Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.