Apprentice Water System Operator

City of Marietta; Marietta (GA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Marietta is seeking an apprentice for the Water Department, providing hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing water infrastructure. This open position offers on-the-job training with opportunities for advancement through required certifications and job experience.

Responsibilities include working on water and wastewater installations and repairs, maintaining equipment, and participating in a rotating on-call schedule. Preferred qualifications include a high school diploma, a valid Georgia driver’s license, and the ability to operate construction tools.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license with good driving history.
• Ability to complete CDL requirements within specified timeframe.

Responsibilities

• Install water and wastewater taps for new services.
• Service fire hydrants as part of a crew.
• Repair broken water mains or wastewater services.
• Perform preventative maintenance on assigned truck.

Skills

Skill with hand tools

Experience in construction

Experience in plumbing

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Pipe wrenches

Jack hammer

Concrete saws

Job description

Rate of Pay

Based on qualifications

Status

Open Until Filled

This apprentice training position within the Water Department provides hands‑on experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing water and wastewater infrastructure. Starting pay will be based on qualifications. Employees receive on‑the‑job training and may advance through the program by successfully completing required training, certifications, and job requirements. As employees gain experience and progress through the program, they take on more responsibility and perform a wider variety of work. This position works under the supervision of an assigned Foreperson or experienced Operator.

Responsibilities

• Works as a member of a crew in installing water and wastewater taps for new services.
• Works as a member of a crew in installing and servicing fire hydrants.
• Works as a member of a crew in repairing broken water mains or wastewater services.
• Flags traffic around work site as assigned.
• Works as a member of a crew in replacing and raising or lowering water and wastewater appurtenances.
• Works as a member of a crew in high‑pressure water cleaning of wastewater mains and services.
• Stocks truck with standard items and materials used on a daily basis. Delivers and picks up materials and equipment as assigned.
• Performs preventative maintenance on assigned truck and keeps truck clean as needed.
• Installs and replaces residential meters.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid Georgia driver’s license including a satisfactory seven‑year driving history with no DUI’s in the last 5 years. Must be able to obtain a Georgia Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) learners permit within 6 months of hire and obtain a Class A CDL one year from date of obtaining permit.
• Must be able to obtain flagging certification within working test period.
• Must be able to complete trenching and shoring, and confined space entry certification within two years of employment.
• Ability to learn and follow standard safety practices associated with heavy construction.
• Must be able to work a rotating “on call” schedule as assigned.

Highly Desired Skills

• Skill with hand tools including pipe wrenches, hammers, concrete saws and other related tools.
• Experience in construction, maintenance, or field operations.
• Experience in plumbing, underground utilities, or pipe installation.
• Ability to operate powered tools including jack hammer, chain saw, and air hammer.

Disclaimer

Successful candidates are required to submit to drug screen, physical exam, and background inquiry.