Maintenance Technician/ Equipment Operator

Purpose:

The City of Newark is seeking a highly skilled and versatile Maintenance Repairer (Fleet and Equipment) to maintain and repair all vehicles, vessels, utility equipment, and power tools used across the Pequannock Watershed and Cedar Grove Reservoir. This includes quads, trailers, mowers, boats, pumps, small engines, and other specialized utility and maintenance equipment. The role also includes mechanical and electrical upgrades, custom installs, and occasional support for gatehouse operations. This position is essential for ensuring operational readiness of all field equipment and supporting infrastructure maintenance efforts.

About Newark’s Department of Water and Sewer Utilities

The Department of Water and Sewer Utilities is responsible for the planning, operation, maintenance, and modernization of Newark’s water supply, treatment, transmission, and distribution, as well as the wastewater and stormwater collection infrastructure. With jurisdiction over the city’s water system, from source to tap, the Department is committed to advancing equitable access to high-quality water services for Newark’s residents, businesses, and visitors. In alignment with Mayor Ras J. Baraka’s Newark Forward agenda, the Department supports sustainable resource management, climate adaptation, and infrastructure resilience as key pillars of its operations.

The Department oversees more than 400 million gallons of finished water storage across its reservoirs, over 35 miles of water distribution and sewer pipelines, and state-of-the-art treatment facilities. It also manages initiatives to modernize infrastructure, improve efficiency, and protect natural resources, including innovative approaches to watershed and source water protection.

With the support of the Mayor Ras Baraka and the Director of Water and Sewer Utilities, Kareem Adeem, Newark seeks forward-thinking leaders who can help the Department achieve its mission of providing safe, reliable, and sustainable water and sewer services. This includes addressing emerging challenges such as climate change, aging infrastructure, and environmental protection to safeguard Newark’s water resources for generations to come. Therefore, Newark is seeking candidates who can lead with vision, recommend strategic improvements, and implement innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the city and its residents.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, inspect, and repair: City-owned vehicles (pickup trucks, SUVs, etc.); Boats and marine systems (outboard motors, electrical/fuel systems); UTVs, quads, and off-road vehicles (e.g., Kawasaki Mule); Other heavy utility vehicles; Trailers, hitches, wiring, and brake systems; Small engines, including chainsaws, mowers, snow blowers, generators, and pumps; Ultrasonic treatment units; Shop tools and portable power tools used by field staff
• Coordinate seasonal prep, winterization, and fleet readiness.
• Winterize and prepare boats and ultrasonic units for seasonal deployment and removal.
• Perform electrical and mechanical upgrades to equipment, including wiring, lighting, controls, mounts, and retrofits.
• Operate equipment as needed for field deployment, storm response, or project support.
• Support field staff with equipment loading, trailering, and in-field troubleshooting.
• Keep organized records for preventive maintenance, repairs, inspections, and inventory.
• Support licensing, registration, and inspection compliance for City fleet and trailered assets.
• Operate and assist with the maintenance of gatehouse infrastructure, including flow-control valves, screens, and mechanical systems.
• Maintain safety standards and follow operational protocols in workshop and field settings.
• Participate in emergency response, storm events, and equipment deployment operations

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of automotive systems (brakes, cooling, steering, electrical, suspension, etc.).
• Proficiency in small engine repair and diagnostics (2-stroke, 4-stroke, gas, diesel).
• Familiarity with outboard marine engines, fuel systems, and marine electrical systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair UTVs/quads and other vehicles, trailers, and field tools.
• Competency in performing custom mechanical and electrical modifications or installations.
• Experience with seasonal fleet maintenance, inspections, and emergency response prep.
• Skilled in recordkeeping and maintenance tracking using checklists or basic digital tools.
• Safe operation of trailers, boats and utility vehicles (training provided if needed).
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in rugged and remote terrain.
• Willingness to cross-train in gatehouse operations and support infrastructure repair work.
• Physical ability to hike several miles per day and lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, work independently or as part of a field crew, and prioritize daily tasks effectively.
• Commitment to environmental stewardship, safety, and the protection of drinking water sources.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least three years of experience in vehicle and equipment maintenance.
• Willing and able to obtain: CDL (Commercial Driver’s License – Class B); NJ Boater’s License (within 3 months of hire)

Licenses/Certifications

• (Required) Appointees will be required to possess a valid driver’s license in New Jersey if vehicle operation is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.
• (Preferred) CDL (Commercial Driver’s License – Class B)
• (Preferred) NJ Boater’s License

Job Types: Full-time, Internship

Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $30