Utility Mechanic I

Primary Role

The Utility Mechanic I may be assigned to perform any responsibility of Utility Mechanic II that lies within the capability of the employee based on experience, knowledge, qualifications, and training. 
 

Qualifications and Requirements

• The Utility Mechanic I must possess geographic knowledge of the Company’s service area and distribution system. 
• The individual must be capable of interpreting diagrams, blueprints, schematics, and maps and possess a working knowledge of cross-connection control and reduced pressure zone backflow prevention. 
• The Utility Mechanic I must possess a working knowledge of Company policies, procedures and safety practices applicable to their area of responsibility, as well as state and federal regulations regarding; New Jersey One Call (NJ Underground Facility Protection Act), confined spaces, trenching and shoring, and Competent Person. 
• The individual must possess a working knowledge of the various materials utilized in the transmission and distribution system. 
• The Utility Mechanic I must be capable of operating company equipment and vehicles necessary for the completion of assignments and must possess a valid Drivers’ License. The individual will be required to attain and maintain a Commercial Drivers’ License (Class A) with appropriate endorsements within 90 working days from their first work day in this job action. The 90 working day timeframe will be adjusted for motor vehicle scheduling issues. 
• The individual must also be able to perform the essential functions and meet the physical requirements for Utility Mechanic I. 
• The Utility Mechanic I must progress to a Utility Mechanic II after holding the UM I Position for a minimum period of three years. In order to progress they must meet all the “Qualifications and Requirements” for Utility Mechanic II and the “Progression Requirement” in this UM I job description. 
   

Scope of Responsibilities

Utility Mechanic I responsibilities may include, but are not limited to: 

• Locate, access, operate and repair Company facilities such as, but not limited to, mains, hydrants, blow-offs, services, curb stops, shutoff valves, and plumbing fixtures. 
• Investigate and diagnose hydraulic variations that may adversely impact system operations and customer service, and initiate corrective action. 
• Perform distribution system tests including, but not limited to, fire flows, customer service lines, and pressure losses. 
• Locate Company facilities, and in accord with the State and federal regulations regarding New Jersey One Call (NJ Underground Facility Protection Act), mark-out Company facilities and initiate requests to mark-out other utilities’ facilities. 
• Raise to grade Company facilities such as, but not limited to, meter; chambers, frames, covers, and curb or valve boxes. 
• Operate and repair Company facilities such as, but not limited to meters; settings, chambers and covers in addition to curb and valve box facilities. 
• Complete the installation of facilities including, but not limited to, water services, main extensions, fire hydrants, valves, and blow-offs. 
• Collect and evaluate water samples, as directed, in accord with established water quality practices. 
• Transport materials to and from Company facilities and/or job sites. 
• Prepare Company facilities for adverse weather conditions 
• Restore service to frozen Company facilities, as required. 
• Record pertinent data and maintain accurate records. 
• Report conditions in the field that may adversely impact customer service or the public safety, as well as conditions that may result in potential damage to Company facilities. 
• Respond to inquiries accurately and professionally and, when necessary, involve the appropriate individuals to resolve customer and Company-related issues and to achieve the highest level of customer service in all areas of responsibility. 
• The Utility Mechanic I may be assigned to perform responsibilities either individually or in conjunction with other employees. 
• Complete house-to-house connections at customers’ accounts to maintain service 
• Obtain and record meter readings to insure accurate billing of customers’ accounts within established timeframes. 
• Excavate and/or backfill job sites to facilities such as, but not limited to, mains, hydrants, blow-offs, services, curb stops, shutoff valves, and fire hydrants. 
• As directed by the Company, perform and/or assist in the performance of any field operations and/or production department work based on the employee’s skills and qualifications to perform the work required. 
• Based on their skills, knowledge and ability, the UM I may be directed to inspect the installation of water mains, valves, fittings, fire hydrants, and services to insure the facilities are installed in accord with Company policies, procedures, and contracts. 
   

Progression Requirement

The Utility Mechanic I must progress to a Utility Mechanic II after holding the Utility Mechanic 1 Position for a minimum period of three years. In order to progress they must demonstrate the skills, knowledge and ability to meet all the qualifications and requirements for a Utility Mechanic II. In the event after three years as a Utility Mechanic I, the employee has not demonstrated all the skills, knowledge and ability needed to progress, the company may allow an additional one year of training. 

The Company may elect, to lessen the requirement of holding the UM I position for the minimum period of three years prior to Progression, based on the individual’s observed work performance, demonstrated skills and past work experience within or outside of NJAW’s employment. 

**Failure to successfully achieve the Progression to a Utility Mechanic II listed above within the specified time period will result in the employee’s loss of the Utility Mechanic I position. 
 

Education

Competencies