Utilities Maintenance Worker I
The Utilities Maintenance Worker I performs semiskilled to skilled tasks in the construction, repair, and maintenance of Confidential Client's sewer, stormwater, and water distribution systems under general supervision. This entry-level role involves operating heavy equipment, responding to emergencies, and ensuring safe and efficient utility services while learning established procedures and gaining certifications required for advancement.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Municipal Government (Public Works).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Utilities Maintenance Worker I in Turlock, CA to perform a variety of semi-skilled to skilled tasks supporting water distribution, sanitary sewer, and storm collection systems. This is a full-time municipal public works role that includes hands-on equipment operation, on-the-job training, and pathways to required certifications.
- Location: Turlock, CA
- Employment type: Full time
- Salary: $4,682–$5,691 per month (USD)
What You’ll Do
- Install, remove, clean, and repair sewer lines, storm drains, water lines, valves, and related infrastructure
- Cut, lay, install, and repair water mains and service connections; perform water line taps and meter installations
- Isolate sections of water mains for repair, perform unidirectional flushing, and disinfect mains when required
- Operate construction and maintenance equipment (dump trucks, backhoes, loaders, trenching machines, jackhammers)
- Operate vacuum/jitter combo trucks, hydrovactors, rodders, hydro-cleaners, and CCTV inspection equipment
- Build and repair manholes, catch basins, and pour/finish concrete and asphalt work
- Exercise and maintain distribution system valves; install and maintain fire hydrants and backflow devices
- Install shoring and implement safe traffic control measures; set up barricades and route traffic safely
- Respond to public service requests and water-quality complaints; troubleshoot and assist with emergency repairs
- Collect and transport water samples; assist with basic water treatment activities and chemical dosage monitoring
- Maintain records for meter readings, maintenance activities, parts inventory, and equipment inspections
- Perform standby/on-call duties and respond to emergency calls as required
Minimum Qualifications
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Experience: At least one year of construction or maintenance experience working with pumps, valves, basic plumbing, and heavy equipment preferred
- Certifications: Must obtain within timeline after hire:
- Water Distribution Grade I (California Division of Drinking Water) — within 18 months of hire
- Collections System Maintenance Grade I (California Water Environment Association) — within 18 months of hire
- Work Zone Safety Certification — within 24 months of hire
- License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license at appointment and ability to obtain a Class B driver’s license within nine (9) months of employment
Physical & Other Requirements
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks: lift 25 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally; walk, bend, crouch, climb, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Good vision and hearing sufficient for safe equipment operation and communication
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work safely in team settings and emergency conditions
- Willingness to participate in medical exams, drug/alcohol screening, hearing and vision exams, and fingerprinting as part of pre-employment conditions
Benefits
- Eleven (11) paid holidays plus three (3) floating holidays
- Paid vacation and sick leave accrual (one day per month)
- CalPERS retirement plan (eligibility varies by membership status)
- Deferred compensation matching, Retiree Health Savings contributions
- Health, prescription, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
- Education incentives, tuition reimbursement program, and computer loan program (subject to completion of probation)
- Continuous service pay increases at 10, 15, and 20+ years of service
Selection Process & Important Notes
- Only the first 100 applications submitted may be considered; the posting may close without prior notice.
- Application materials must include proof of education (transcripts or degree).
- Qualified applicants may be invited to a written exam and/or oral exam; practical exercises may be used to evaluate job-related skills.
- Veteran’s preference points may apply; supporting documentation (DD214) is required.
- Final appointment is contingent on reference checks, medical examination (including drug/alcohol screening), hearing and vision exams, and fingerprinting.
- An eligibility list may be established from this recruitment and remain active for a specified period.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind.
To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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