Public Works Sewer Maintenance Worker I/II

City of Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids (IA)

On-site

USD 48,000 - 66,000

Full time

7 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Union position

Job summary

City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a Sewer Maintenance Worker I/II to perform labor and maintenance tasks for storm and sanitary sewer systems in Cedar Rapids. You will operate and assist in cleaning sewer mains, locate issues, and support street and infrastructure maintenance under supervision.

The role requires a HS diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, and willingness to work rotating shifts and overtime. Union employment through AFSCME provides structured steps and benefits.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population.

Responsibilities

Perform manual labor and use hand tools to support equipment operations.
Assist in snow removal and pretreatment of streets, sidewalks, and bridges.
Assist in hydraulic and mechanical cleaning of sewer mains and related structures.
Operate equipment for locating infiltration sources using inspection tools and testing methods.
Perform storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure locates per code and standards.
Support safety practices and city policies; attend scheduled work times.

Skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Television inspection equipment

Smoke injection equipment

Dye testing equipment

Job description

Build a career that makes a difference in Cedar Rapids as a Sewer Maintenance Worker I or II

With the City’s Public Works team. From operating and maintaining critical sewer systems to constructing and repairing infrastructure, you’ll perform meaningful, hands-on work that keeps our community safe, healthy, and moving forward.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds, and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city.

About this Opportunity

Provides labor services to PW Sewer Maintenance as assigned.

Provides labor and maintenance services to sustain a continuing program of storm and sanitary sewer collection systems maintenance.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Performs manual labor and used hand tools to supplement equipment operations
Assists in snow removal and pretreating of City streets, sidewalks and bridges
Assist in the operation of hydraulic and mechanical cleaning of sewer mains and related structures
Assist in the operation of finding and correcting sources of infiltration and inflow into the collection system using television inspection equipment, smoke injection, flood water dye testing and physical inspection techniques
Performs storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure locates per Iowa Municipal Code and City standards
Assist confined space entries into the collection system to effect flow meter installation, repairs, inspections and cleaning of system as necessary
Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures and safety practices
Attends work regularly at the designated place and time
Supports continuous process improvement initiatives
Performs related work as required

Performs the installation, maintenance and repair of manholes, catch basins, storm and sanitary sewer mains
Patches holes in streets and City right of ways using a combination of asphalt, concrete, Portland cement concrete and granular backfill
Assists in the operation of hydraulic and mechanical cleaning of sewer mains and related structures
Assists in the operation of finding and correcting sources of infiltration and inflow into the collection system
Performs emergency and routine operations of pumps and associated equipment during times of flooding and sanitary sewer surcharge outside of normal work hours
Operates dump truck and other equipment to haul, load and unload construction equipment and material to and from job site
Performs confined space entries into collection system to effect flow meter installation, repairs, inspections and cleaning as necessary
Assists in snow removal and pretreating of City streets, sidewalks and bridges
Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies, procedures and safety practices
Attends work regularly at the designated place and time
Supports continuous process improvement initiatives
Performs related work as required

Required Education and Experience (I)

High School Diploma or GED and
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Required Licenses or Certifications (I)

Valid Driver’s License
Class A with tanker and air brake endorsements within one year of hire
Ability to work overtime and flexible shifts with short notice
Ability to report to work within 30 minutes for emergencies and stand‑by responsibilities.

Desired Qualifications (I)

Experience with asphalt, carpentry, concrete, forestry, traffic signage, construction, sewer or related work or
An equivalent combination of education and/or experience

Required Education and Experience (II)

High School Diploma or GED and
One year experience in maintenance or operation of a storm and sanitary sewer collection system or related construction field or
An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Required Licenses or Certifications (II)

Valid Driver’s License Class A with appropriate endorsements and valid Medical Examiners certificate
State of Iowa Certification (Grade I) in collection systems
Ability to work overtime and flexible shifts with short notice
Ability to report to work within 30 minutes for emergencies and stand‑by responsibilities
Confined Space Training and Trench Safety Training

Desired Qualifications (II)

SPOT training (Snowplow Operating Training)

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday 7:00am to 3:30pm; Rotating on-call requirements every 8-10 weeks (about 5 weeks/year)

Hourly Rate

The Public Works Sewer Maintenance Worker I/II is covered under the AFSCME Bargaining Union, and all new hires begin employment at the new hire rate, regardless of years of experience. Employees in this classification receive a step increase on their anniversary. The steps effective 7/1/2026 include:

Salary Schedule (I)