Utility Laborer

Position Type:
Public Works/Utility Laborer

Date Posted:
6/22/2026

Location:
Public Works Garage
Public Works Department - Full Time Utility Laborer

The City of Charleston Public Works Department is seeking candidates to fill a Utility Laborer position. This position is full-time with a starting wage of $21.81- $23.10 per hour after 6 months. Wages incrementally increase as defined by union contract. Starting wage could increase to 24.35 based on experience and qualifications of the candidate. The Utility Laborer works standard Monday - Friday 6:30am-3pm shifts, with overtime availability required. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package, including an IMRF defined pension plan. This posting will remain open until the position is filled. The successful candidate must complete a post offer DOT physical, drug/alcohol test and background screening.

Duties:

• Works on a crew to install, maintain, and repair municipal water and sewer distribution systems following specifications, blueprints, manuals, and schematic drawings including meters, valves, pressure regulators and catch basins, manholes, culverts and storm drains.
• Uses hand and power tools, backhoe, trencher, hoist, crane, boring machine, measuring and testing instruments to accomplish tasks.
• Visually inspects and tests systems using electronic test equipment. Utility locates and probe
• Perform traffic control around work zones by holding signs, setting up traffic cones, barricades, caution tape or other equipment
• Operates heavy machinery, dump trucks and must obtain CDL class B license within 6 months of hire
• Snow and storm damage removal
• Building construction

Desired Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven reliable and dependable
• Must be 18 years of age
• Possess a valid Illinois driver's license
• Possess a CDL class B within six months (CDL class A preferred)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Pass an extensive background investigation and drug screen
• Knowledge in methods of moving material, machine/tool uses, methods of construction/repair of water & sewer lines, meeting quality standards
• Troubleshooting skills, equipment maintenance, eager to learn

Benefits:

• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
• Personal Leave Accruals - 24 hours per year
• Vacation Leave Accruals - 40 hours first year, 80 hours second year
• Sick Leave Accruals - 8 hours per month
• 11 Paid Holidays per year
• $100 Safety shoe allowance and uniforms provided
• Employee voluntary deferred compensation plan
• Employee voluntary flex spending and dependent care options
• BCBS PPO health insurance and HDHP health insurance
• Health Savings Account employer contributions - $500 single and $1,000 plus one or family
• Delta Dental - employee paid
• VSP Vision - employee paid
• $50,000 Life Insurance coverage benefit
• Supplemental Life Insurance options
• Aflac options

Apply online at For free internet access, please visit Charleston Carnegie Library. EEO/AA.