Why Work for the City of Portland?

At the City of Portland, you'll do more than build a career—you'll make a difference. Our employees are dedicated to providing exceptional public service while helping maintain the high quality of life that makes Portland a great place to live, work, and play. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a collaborative work environment where your contributions matter. Join our team and become part of a community committed to serving others and shaping the future of Portland.

Description
Under the supervision of the Utilities Supervisor, this full-time position performs, assists in, and is responsible for, the installation, maintenance, and repair of the water distribution and wastewater collection systems. This position operates equipment such as pumps, air compressors, backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, forklifts, and other water/wastewater related equipment.  Other duties may be assigned.  This position is included in the departments after hours and weekend stand-by rotation. 

Examples of Duties

• Installs, maintains and repairs various components of the water and wastewater system
• Operate a variety of moderately heavy construction and maintenance equipment including backhoe, single axle dump truck, dozer, loader, and truck with trailer
• Determines equipment needed for assignment and load tools and equipment onto truck
• Transports vehicles and equipment to job sites  
• Performs water taps, install service lines and meter boxes
• Installs new water meter taps
• Locates, isolates and repair leaks on water lines
• Responds to service calls regarding water pressure and leaks, including performing pressure checks
• Connections and disconnections of water for utility customers  
• Digs holes and trenches manually and with power equipment
• Set up safety equipment, including barricades, to protect crew and the general public
• Reinforces shore trenches, according to safety guidelines
• Performs underground utility marking, as required
• Maintains a safe work environment and demonstrate safe workplace behaviors, including wearing proper personal protective equipment and following safety rules and regulations
• Works independently at times without close supervision and makes clear decisions
• Essential position requiring mandatory attendance in the event of storm, disaster or other circumstantial event
• Serve in stand-by status after regular working hours on a rotating schedule.  While on standby, respond to emergency and after hour trouble calls
• Responds to water/wastewater complaints
• Clears stoppages on sewer lines by locating, repairing and or replacing pipes
• Performs sewer taps
• Repairs and replaces sewer mains and service lines
• Checks sewer mains
• Reads and interprets maps and drawings
• Performs water meter reading and utility locates  
• Inspects water meter for proper operations
• Install, maintain, remove and replace water meters, water hydrants and valves    
• Assist in repairing and maintaining lift stations by replacing pipes and pumps
• Maintenance of equipment and vehicles according to safety and departmental procedures, including preparation of vehicle reports, maintaining correct fluid levels, safe operations, and keeping vehicles clean