Utility Laborer

Job Description

Job Title: Utility Laborer

Posting Start Date: 5/26/26

Job Description:

Job Details

Starting Union Rate $26.49

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement, and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

Primary Role

Under the direction of supervisor performs a variety of tasks related to water metering, valve operation, utility mark outs and water distribution work. Assists distribution staff with customer service, hydrant repairs, hydrant flushing and main break emergencies and repairs. Performance of all duties must adhere to and comply with company safety policies, guidelines and procedures.

Key Accountabilities

• Operation and routine maintenance on a variety of mechanical and electrical equipment such as pumps, pipelines, valves, motors, and appurtenances related to the water system.
• Operation and routine maintenance on a variety of mechanical and electrical equipment such as pumps, pipelines, valves, motors, and appurtenances related to the wastewater system facilities (netting/pumping) to minimize sewer system surcharging and overflows/bypasses during wet weather, and to prevent sewer system overflows/bypasses during dry weather.
• Perform any of the regular maintenance and construction duties as needed and assigned, including hydro-cleaning and video inspection of wastewater and storm water mains and associated appurtenances.
• Performs maintenance of the water/wastewater system and general housekeeping duties; calibrate, modify, or repair instrumentation and control equipment including recorders, flow meters, and other monitoring equipment.
• Digs, fills, and tamps earth excavations; levels ground using pick, shovel, tamper and rake. Shovels concrete and snow; cleans culverts and ditches; cuts tree and brush; operates power lawnmowers.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Follows Company Environmental, Health and Safety Policies, and reports unsafe conditions to supervision immediately.
  
  

Knowledge/Skills

• Able to read gauges and meters.
• Able to perform standardized water process control, monitoring, and compliance sampling and testing.
• Able to prepare and maintain accurate paperwork such as records, logs, orders, surveys, and routine reports as directed.
• Able to communicate effectively will all levels of the organization.
• Some computer skills; MS Word, MS Excel, and SCADA systems.
• Able to perform accurate mathematical calculations related to this position.
• Able to plan, schedule, prioritize, and coordinate work within assigned work area.
• Ability to respond to emergencies.
• Able to use of motorized vehicles and equipment such as forklifts, heavy trucks, tamper, portable generators, portable pumps, ditch witch, etc. as required.
• Able to use power tools such as saws, compressors, sanders, grinders, etc. as required.
• Able to use common hand tools.
• Experience in light duty electrical power systems (240 V/ single and three phase) and instrumentation calibration and use.
• Able to establish effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, customers, and the general public.
• Knowledge of techniques, equipment, facilities, materials, methods, and procedures used in operations, maintenance, construction, and mechanical repair of water/wastewater facilities and appurtenances.
  
  

Experience/Education

• 2 – 5 years of experience in the operation and maintenance in either water, wastewater, or stormwater industries, or 6 - 8 years’ experience in similar industry preferred.
• Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
  
  

Certifications & Licenses

• Must possess a valid state (of residence) driver’s license.
• Possessing a NJDEP C1 or W1 Operator Certification is preferred.
  
  

Work Conditions

• Must be physically able to work indoor or outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold or other adverse weather conditions.
• Must be physically able to complete necessary tasks while wearing approved personal protective equipment, as some required work may have potential for exposure to harmful contaminants, environments, noise, etc.
• Must be physically able to lift and/or carry 80 lbs. or more on a frequent basis.
• Must be physically able to walk up and down stairs and long distances.
• Must be physically able to carry, climb, and work from ladders.
• Must be physically able to work in confined space environments.
• Must be physically able to wear a respirator or SCBA as required.
• Must be physically able to remain alert and attentive to job requirements and co-workers.
  
  

Specific Conditions

• May be required to workday, night, early morning, or rotating shifts as needed.
• May be required to work weekends, holidays, and overtime.
• Maintain a neat, clean, professional appearance at all times while in uniform or during working hours.
• Maintain a courteous manner when speaking to customers and the general public.
• Must be available for Callouts.
  
  

Other Details

Performance Measures

• Look for opportunities to improve efficiency and find ways to save budget expenses.
• No reportable accidents occur within the work area of responsibility.
• No environmental regulation violations.
• No legitimate complaints from co-workers.
• No preventable breakdown of equipment.
• Regular and Punctual attendance.
  
  

Competencies

Champions safety

Customer obsessed

Cultivates innovation

Nimble learning

Drives Results

Collaborates