Public Works Sewer Maintenance Worker I/II

City of Cedar Rapids, IA; West Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Cedar Rapids, IA is hiring a Sewer Maintenance Worker I or II to provide labor services to Public Works Sewer Maintenance. You will support storm and sanitary sewer collection systems maintenance, perform manual labor with hand tools, and assist in the operation of sewer cleaning equipment.

Applicants should have a High School Diploma or GED, strong communication, and the ability to work with a diverse population.

Qualifications

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population.
• Experience with urban infrastructure maintenance is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual labor and use hand tools to support equipment operations.
• Operate and assist in hydraulic and mechanical cleaning of sewer mains and related structures.
• Patches holes in streets and right of ways using asphalt and concrete.
• Assist in snow removal and pretreating of streets, sidewalks, and bridges.

Skills

Safety minded

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

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. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

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 I

• 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

Job Duties and Responsibilities II

• 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
• 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
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience

Required Education and Experience II

• High School Diploma or GED
• One year experience in maintenance or operation of a storm and sanitary sewer collection system or related construction field
• 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:

Hourly Rate I

• New Hire: $23.11
• 1 year: $25.56
• 2 years: $27.02
• 3 years: $28.42

Hourly Rate II

• New Hire: $26.52
• 1 year: $29.36
• 2 years: $31.01
• 3 years: $32.69