Technician, Field Operations

American Water; Salt Rock (WV); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

American Water in Salt Rock, WV is seeking a Technician, Field Operations to perform field service duties on water distribution systems. You will install, maintain, and repair mains, hydrants, meters, and related infrastructure while following safety procedures and company policies.

This role requires physical work, ability to read maps, and teamwork with operations and contractors. Local travel to various worksites may be required, with potential overtime based on demand.

Qualifications

• 0-2 years’ experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work.
• Water or wastewater treatment experience is desirable.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical or electrical systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive and operate company vehicles and equipment, including dump trucks and backhoes.
• Break asphalt and concrete using pneumatic tools; excavate valves and curb boxes with hand tools.
• Tap into pressurized water mains, install repair clamps, flare and connect service piping.
• Operate boring equipment for line installation and repair activities.
• Complete and maintain forms, sketches, and field notes using maps and system records.
• Read meters and perform work in meter boxes, trenches, and excavations.

Skills

Field operations

Safety compliance

Reading maps

Communication

Teamwork

Measurements

PPE awareness

Education

High School Diploma

Technical coursework

Tools

Construction equipment

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Technician, Field Operations

Posting Start Date: 10/12/26

Primary Role

The Technician, Field Operations is responsible for performing field service duties and a variety of manual, technical, and operational tasks related to installation, maintenance, and repair of water distribution systems.

Key Accountabilities

• Drive and operate company vehicles and equipment, including dump truck, backhoe and other equipment required to perform field service duties; operate various hand and power tools.
• Break asphalt and concrete using pneumatic tools; excavate valves and curb boxes with hand tools; and position pipes, valves, fittings, and related infrastructure.
• Tap into pressurized water mains, install repair clamps, flare and connect service piping, and operate valves, hydrants, and related appurtenances.
• Operate pneumatic and/or hydraulic boring equipment for line installation and repair activities.
• Accurately complete and maintain forms, sketches, field notes, and documentation using maps and system records.
• Read meters as required by daily schedules. Perform work in meter boxes, confined spaces, trenches, and excavations.
• Obtain and record water meter readings in the company’s service area to ensure accurate billing of customers’ accounts within established timeframes.
• Accurately measure pressure and flow at meter to detect leaks. Perform service turn-ons, turn-offs, and other customer-facing operational tasks in accordance with company procedures. Investigate and resolve customer service issues, providing professional communication and timely response.
• All other duties as assigne

Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to learn and understand water distribution system components, including mains, service lines, valves, hydrants, meters, and related appurtenances.
• Ability to learn and understand safe work practices applicable to field operations, including PPE requirements, traffic control, trenching and excavation hazards, confined space awareness, and equipment safety.
• Basic familiarity with mechanical equipment used in field service activities, including valves, meters, hand and power tools, and construction equipment.
• Awareness of emergency response procedures related to field operations and the importance of timely reporting and escalation.
• Ability to perform basic measurements and calculations and accurately record field data with attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly report equipment issues, safety concerns, and customer service matters.
• Ability to work collaboratively with operations, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and external contractors.
• Ability to read and interpret basic maps, plans, and utility drawings. Basic understanding of piping systems and mechanical principles related to water distribution work, with awareness of electrical safety practices.
• Basic computer proficiency, including use of mobile devices and software for work orders, meter reading, and field documentation.
• Ability to follow established procedures and elevate abnormal conditions or emergencies according to company protocols.

Experience/Education

• 0-2 years’ experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work.
• Prior water or wastewater treatment experience is desirable.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or a related field preferred

Travel Requirements

Local travel to various worksites.

Certifications & Licenses

• License requirements vary by state. Candidate must obtain license within designated timeframe.
• Valid Driver’s Licens

Work Environment

• Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, and varying weather conditions.
• Potential exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, and sewage.
• The ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment is required.
• May be required to work in buildings, in pits, manholes, on scaffoldings or in confined spaces.
• May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards and electrical equipment.
• Must be able to perform essential functions and meet the physical requirements of the position including ability to stand, climb stairs, and/ or walk and/or sit for long periods of time.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, pull, and move tools, equipment, and materials up to 80 lbs. as required.
• Involves crouching, stooping, and kneeling for extended or repeated periods. Must be able to safely drive a company vehicle for extended or intermittent periods in varying conditions.
• Frequently enters and exits vehicles. Overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and/or on-call assignments required depending on operational needs.

Competencies

Plans & Aligns

Decision Making

Communicates Effectively

Builds Networks

Action Oriented