Water Utility Distribution Crew Leader – Serviceman II

City of Cudahy; Cedarburg (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Cudahy is seeking a Water Utility Distribution Crew Member – Serviceman II to lead the distribution team. You will coordinate Servicemen I work, perform advanced maintenance, and respond to routine and emergency conditions while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

You will oversee repairs, operate distribution equipment, and liaise with the Water Utility Manager. This role requires strong leadership, reading plans, and the ability to manage field operations under pressure.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Wisconsin CDL with required endorsements within 6 months of hire.
• Wisconsin DNR D-1 Operator Certification within 18 months of hire.
• Knowledge of water distribution systems and underground utility maintenance.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and technical documents.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment operation skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Ability to respond to emergencies and work in adverse conditions.

Responsibilities

• Leads and coordinates daily work of Servicemen I.
• Oversees repairs to water mains, valves, hydrants, services, and water meters.
• Operates water distribution equipment including backhoes and hydraulic tools.
• Coordinates contractors and ensures safety and regulatory compliance.
• Performs system investigations related to leaks and pressure issues.
• Responds to after-hours emergencies as required and leads emergency response.
• Ensures field operations comply with policies and completes required reports.

Skills

Leadership

Safety compliance

Communication

Emergency response

Equipment operation

Reading plans

Education

High school diploma

Wisconsin CDL with endorsements

Wisconsin DNR D-1 Operator Certification

Tools

Backhoes

Hydraulic tools

Meters testing equipment

Job description

The Water Utility Distribution Crew Member – Serviceman II serves as the lead worker for the Water Utility’s distribution operations. This position coordinates, assigns, and oversees the work of Servicemen I while performing advanced duties related to the maintenance, repair, and operation of the municipal water distribution system. The position responds to routine and emergency conditions, ensures crew compliance with safety and regulatory standards. The position implements, but does not establish, Utility policy and acts as the primary field liaison to the Water Utility Manager.

Leadership & Crew Coordination

• Assigns, schedules, and oversees daily work of Servicemen I.
• Trains staff in procedures, safety practices, equipment operation, and regulatory compliance.
• Evaluates work quality and resolves operational issues.
• Coordinates with contractors and other City departments to support water system repairs and maintenance.

Operational Responsibilities

• Leads and performs repairs to water mains, valves, hydrants, services, and water meters.
• Operates backhoes, loaders, compressors, hydraulic tools, equipment, and vehicles used in the installation, maintenance and repair of water distribution system infrastructure.
• Coordinates and oversees contractors performing work on the water distribution system.
• Performs system investigations related to leaks, pressure issues, customer complaints, and other distribution system-related concerns.
• Conducts and oversees hydrant flushing and testing, valve exercising, and meter testing and replacement.
• Aid treatment plant staff in water sampling as requested.

Administrative & Regulatory Duties

• Ensures field operations comply with DNR, PSC, and City & Utility policies.
• Completes required forms, reports, and operational documentation.
• Assists in planning work priorities and coordinating projects.
• Recommend changes to improve operational efficiency and safety to the Water Utility Manager.

Emergency Response

• Responds to after-hours emergencies as required.
• Leads emergency response activities including crew mobilization.
• Communicates with the Water Utility Manager during emergencies and provides situational updates.

Experience

• 3–5 years of water distribution, utility, or public works experience.
• Lead worker or supervisory experience preferred.

Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Wisconsin CDL with required endorsements within 6 months of hire.
• Wisconsin DNR D-1 Operator Certification within 18 months of hire.

• Knowledge of water distribution systems and underground utility maintenance.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and technical documents.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment operation skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Ability to respond to emergencies and work in adverse conditions.