Utility Operator I

Gfoat; La Porte (TX); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

City of La Porte is hiring a Utility Operator I to perform skilled and semi-skilled work in water distribution and sewer collection systems. The role requires operating various equipment, installing services, and responding to emergencies. A valid Texas driver's license and potential Class B CDL are preferred.

The position is full-time, with weekend and holiday availability, and the incumbent may work in diverse weather and hazardous conditions while maintaining records and reporting issues.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic construction and maintenance methods for water and sewer utility systems.
• Safe work practices under hazardous conditions.
• Operation of a variety of construction equipment.

Responsibilities

• Available to work weekends and holidays and respond to emergency call outs.
• Install, large and small water and sewer services.
• Perform installation, repairs and maintenance on water mains, fire hydrants, water valves and water meters, sewer lines, manholes and related appurtenances.
• Inspect, test, and operate portable pumps, portable generators and related equipment.
• Operate trucks and construction equipment such as backhoes and trenching machines, and other listed equipment.
• Remove and install meters and control traffic safely.
• Report problems and keep trucks clean and organized.
• Maintain records, logs and maps and update drawings.

Skills

Basic construction knowledge

Safe work practices

Operate construction equipment

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

UTILITY OPERATOR I

Category: Full-Time

Status: Open

Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201

Published: August 4, 2026

Closing: Until Filled

DEFINITION

To perform a wide variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the construction, maintenance and repair; to water distribution and sewage collection systems.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from a Utility Supervisor.

Receives direct supervision from the Senior Utility Operator

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Available to work weekends and holidays and respond to emergency call outs.
• Install, large and small water and sewer services.
• Perform installation, repairs and maintenance on water mains, fire hydrants, water valves and water meters, sewer lines, manholes and cleanouts and related appurtenances.
• Inspect, test, and operate portable pumps, portable generators and related gas driven equipment valves, fittings, meters, and related water production and distribution and sewer collection equipment as assigned.
• Operate trucks and construction equipment such as backhoes and trenching machines, horizontal boring machine, combinations vacuum/water jet.
• Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.
• Report mechanical or other problems; keep truck orderly and clean.
• Operate a pneumatic pavement break Construct form, pour and finish concrete.
• Maintain routine records, logs, and reports. Check update drawings and maps.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

For indefinite periods of time - mobility within an office and field environment; exposure to chemical, toxic waste, dust/mites, fume, odor, explosive, electrical and mechanical hazards; exposure to extreme cold, heat, height and constant noise; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; squatting; sitting; seeing; running; pushing, pulling, lifting, dragging, and carrying up to 80 pounds; kneeling; reading; decision making; reaching above shoulder level; using both hands for simple and firm grasping; clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively, in person and by two-way radio; fine finger manipulation; operation of a backhoe, trenching machine, jackhammer and all hand tools; operation of a motor vehicle through city traffic.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Basic construction and maintenance methods, procedures, tools, equipment, supplies and materials of water and sewer utility systems.
• Safe work practices under hazardous conditions.
• Operation of a variety of construction equipment.

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of construction, repair, and maintenance tasks.
• Work under routine and emergency conditions, sometimes in severe weather.
• Operate light equipment and learn to operate heavier construction equipment.
• Work efficiently and safely with others.
• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions and directions.
• Perform a wide range of physically strenuous tasks as required.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

One year of utility related construction or maintenance experience preferred.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES

High School Diploma or GED preferred. Possession of a valid Texas Driver’s License. Possession of a valid Class “B” CDL or ability to obtain in six months.

*Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

*Duties, responsibilities and action may change at any time or without notice.

The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity and Affimative Action Employer.