Utility Technician (Wastewater Operations)

City of Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Houston is seeking a Water/Wastewater Operations Maintenance position to support multiple locations in Houston, TX. The role involves hands-on maintenance, sampling, and operation of water and wastewater systems, with emphasis on safety and reliability.

Responsibilities include operating equipment, collecting samples, maintaining records in a data-tracking system, and coordinating with the GIS team to locate valves and infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Six months of general maintenance/work experience.
• Valid Texas Driver License and driving policy compliance.
• Ability to read, write, and follow basic instructions.
• Preference for plant/lift station maintenance experience.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate water and wastewater facilities at various locations.
• Operate sampling instruments and perform field analysis of water samples.
• Collect, preserve, and transport samples to laboratory.
• Prepare reports and records using a data tracking system.
• Operate valves and flush hydrants to address water quality issues.
• Renew utility services to designated areas.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

General maintenance

Field sampling

Data recording

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GIS awareness

Laboratory sampling tools

Job description

Position Overview

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Applications Accepted from

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Service Line/Section: Houston Water/ Wastewater Operations Maintenance

Location: Various Location, Houston, TX, USA*

Workdays & Hours: TBD*

Subject to change*

Description Of Duties/Essential Functions

Provides for effective maintenance and operation of the water and wastewater utility at various locations. Utilizes troubleshooting skills to address utility operations and maintenance. May operate equipment or perform tasks that do not require specialized licenses. Operates and maintains sampling instruments and perform field analysis of water samples. Collects, preserves, sends, and transports samples to laboratory for analysis. Operates valves and flushes hydrants to address water quality issues. Prepares and maintains reports, forms, and records for operations, assignments, service calls, maintenance and repairs of equipment and tools, and/or sampling activity utilizing a data tracking system. Operates centrifuge or dryer in sludge process. Performs maintenance tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment facilities. Isolates water lines by operation valves and reviewing GIS to determine valve locations. Renews utility services to designated areas. May perform other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position involves considerable physical exertion, such as regular climbing of ladders, lifting heavy objects up to eighty (80) pounds on a highly frequent basis and/or assuming awkward position for long periods of time. There are frequent exposures to extreme levels of temperature, air pollution, noise pollution, chemical gases and substances.

This is a Houston Public Works Emergency Management Position at the Tier I Level.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires a high school diploma, GED, or the ability to read, write, add, subtract, and follow oral and/or basic written instructions at a level necessary for successful job performance supplemented by specialized courses or training in the operation of the equipment/instruments.

Experience Requirements

Six (6) months of general maintenance/work experience are required.

License Requirements

Valid Texas Driver License and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2)

PREFERENCES

• Preference will be given to applicants who have experience in plant and/or lift station maintenance or the collection system. Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.
• GENERAL INFORMATION

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED

None. However, the department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION

YES. If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION

Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 13

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.