Job Openings

Job Overview
The Distribution Technician is under the general supervision of the Distribution Foreman. Responsible for assisting with all aspects of the work involved with the operation and maintenance of the distribution system, hydrants, services, water meters and related appurtenances in accordance with the District's policies and procedures and with state and federal laws and regulations

Responsibilities

• Assists in the efficient and effective operation of the distribution system; install, repair and maintain water mains, hydrants, services, water meters and related appurtenances
• Assists in the monitoring and maintaining of the distribution system apparatus in accordance with established practices and procedures; maintains awareness of system pressures, tank levels, flow rates and any unusual water quality and quantity issues
• Assists in the inspection and performance of routine maintenance on all District vehicles and heavy equipment
• Assists in the timely and complete snow removal from all hydrants in the distribution system
• Assists in the upkeep and maintenance of the grounds of all properties; lawns, driveways, snow removal, etc.
• Ensures that all proper safety precautions are taken in the use of equipment and performance of assignments
• Detects and reports defective or unsafe equipment to Distribution Foreman
• Completes required job invoices and reports, including field notes, as-built sketches, material lists, work hours and other pertinent information
• Assists in performing required distribution system flushing (hydrant flushing)
• Assists in locating and repairing distribution system leaks
• Responsible for all monthly safety inspections and completing reports for fire extinguishers, safety lighting, eyewash stations, etc.
• Must be able to operate a variety of heavy equipment; backhoe, dump truck, compressor, jackhammer, tapping machine, welder, gas powered saw and other similar type tools, including electric power and hand tools
• Responds to customer inquiries, questions and complaints
• Must be available to work overtime, weekends and holidays
• Must be able to work alone
• May be required to supervise summer help or others, in the absence of the Distribution Foreman, including instructing and training with regard to job duties, responsibilities, work expectations, practices and procedures
• Maintains current knowledge of profession through attendance at seminars related to duties and responsibilities
• Performs other related duties as required

Skills/Experience/Training Required

• Job duties and functions require general knowledge of a water distribution system equivalent to completion of a high school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of three years of related experience plus specialized training or equivalent of education and experience
• Must possess or attain a minimum of a Class 2 Treatment and Class 2 Distribution license and maintain that license by fulfilling the minimum training contact hours required by the licensing agency
• Must possess a valid Maine Driver's License with a minimum of a Class B Commercial Diver's license endorsement
• Attainment of Class 3 and 4 Treatment and Distribution licenses is strongly encouraged
• Ability to gain and retain knowledge of the principles, practices and methods related to a water distribution system
• Ability to gain and retain knowledge of the functions and servicing of mechanical equipment common to a water distribution system
• Possess a working knowledge of the basic principles of chemistry and of sampling and testing techniques for water, especially related to chlorination/de-chlorination of new and replaced water mains and services
• Ability to gain and retain knowledge of and skill in the use of water testing field equipment, instruments, procedures and terminology
• Ability to operate a variety of pumping, treatment, distribution and control equipment
• Ability to assist in leak locating and line locating
• Ability to assist in initiating indicated adjustments in the distribution system based on pertinent test results
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to interpret construction plans and specifications
• Ability to acquire a working knowledge of statutes, bylaws, regulations, codes, policies and procedures relevant to the distribution system
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with District customers and to convey concise and accurate explanations of policies, procedures and requirements
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; to establish positive public relations; to interact effectively with a wide variety of people

Supervisory Responsibility

• This position may have supervisory responsibilities for the Summer Spare position and occasionally others, as assigned, in the absence of the Distribution Foreman. Responsibilities may include training new employees; planning, assigning and directing work

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

• Regular periods spent standing and walking; occasional requirement to climb or sustain uncomfortable physical conditions
• Frequent and extended periods of outside work subject to all weather conditions and extremes
• Exposure to chemical hazards which requires exercise of proper safety precautions
• Some exposure to high noise and vibration levels; some exposure to vehicular traffic while performing distribution system repairs and installations
• May use computer keyboards requiring eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity
• May involve travel to meetings
• May occasionally require periods of strenuous physical exertion, lifting, carrying and positioning of equipment and materials weighing 80 lbs., utilizing proper body mechanics and techniques

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.