Water Distribution Technician

Water Distribution Technician

The mission of the Public Utilities Department is to provide citizens of Johnston County efficient, affordable, and friendly services of Water Supply, Wastewater Collection and Treatment, Reclaimed Water, and Stormwater Management. The Public Utilities Department is seeking a full-time Water Distribution Technician.

An employee in this class performs a variety of unskilled to semi-skilled work as a member of a crew engaged in the maintenance of water lines, pumping stations, elevated tanks and master meters. Work involves the inspecting, performing preventive maintenance, and conducting minor repairs to water pumping stations, and operation of light to medium equipment to maintain and repair water appurtenances. Work may involve collecting and handling of water samples, and transportation to laboratories. Work also includes maintenance and repair of meters, hydrants, and valves; and easement, booster station, and tank site maintenance. Employee is subject to working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, vibration, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, oils, water, and vehicle traffic. Work is also subject to the OSHA standards on blood borne pathogens and may require use of breathing apparatus in confined spaces. Employees are also subject to on-call and call-back work. Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated through observation and inspection for adherence to instructions and standard trade and safety practices.

This position is open until filled.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collects daily flow readings from bulk water meters and prepares required reports.
• Performs basic in-field water analysis and interprets data to maintain distribution quality.
• Operates hydrants, blow-offs, and valves to conduct water main flushing.
• Makes daily inspections of booster pumping stations and insures equipment is in working order.
• Make any necessary adjustments for chemical feed systems at the water booster stations in coordination with the Water Transmission Distribution Supervisor and the Water Plant Superintendent.
• Responsible for cleaning and light maintenance of pump stations and master meter facilities.
• Responsible for site maintenance of booster pump stations, elevated tanks, and master meter sites.
• Performs routine maintenance and repairs on various components of the water system including valves, hydrants, blow-offs, master meters, generator sets, pumps, and electrical equipment.
• Compiles and maintains records and tables of flow readings, operating times, chemical quality, and preventative maintenance.
• Submits weekly and monthly reports to Supervisor, as directed.
• Presents a positive image when dealing with public and responds to customer's complaints and inquiries with respect and diplomacy.
• Maintains assigned vehicle(s).
• Maintains a safe driving record.
• Complies with safety regulations.
• Treats co-workers with respect.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of the installations and maintenance of the components of water mains and booster pump stations.
• Basic knowledge of water chemistry.
• Working knowledge of the tools, materials and equipment used in the installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of water lines, pumping stations, meters, electrical controls, and related equipment.
• Working knowledge of a variety of methods and tasks involved in the installation, maintenance, repair and replacement of utility lines, pumping stations, meters, electrical controls, and appurtenances.
• Working knowledge of the use of common hand and power tools.
• Working knowledge of the safe use and operation and preventive maintenance of common automotive and mechanical equipment.
• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions related to assigned duties.
• Some knowledge of the county water service policies and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the public.
• Ability to read utility line maps and equipment operation and service manuals and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Must be able to perform the basic life functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently; and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly. Must possess the visual acuity necessary to operate machines and equipment including close inspection of moving and small parts, using measurement devices, perform assembly and fabrication of parts, prepare data records and operate a computer terminal.

Desired Education and Experience

• Graduation from high school is required supplemented by courses in mechanical or plumbing trades, and experience including pumping, piping maintenance, and repair work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must possess a valid North Carolina driver's license
• Grade C Water Distribution System Operators certificate or ability to obtain within 18 months of employment.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job. Other duties may be assigned.

Important Pre-Employment Information:

• If the position requires a degree, official transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of hire.
• A pre-employment reference check will be conducted.
• A background check may be required and may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, sex offender registry checks, pre-employment drug screening, SBI fingerprinting, and, if applicable, a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) check.
• A conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from employment, unless otherwise required by state law. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Johnston County provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program.

Employees are offered a diverse selection of benefits including medical (no-cost for the employee plan), dental, life, and supplemental benefit coverages. Employees can also take advantage of our on-site wellness clinic and virtual telehealth program, both at no-cost!

Additional benefits include participation in the NC Retirement System, a 401(k) match option, generous paid leave and holiday schedule, tuition reimbursement, and more! To learn more, visit

*This description applies to benefits eligible positions.