Job Summary – Water Technician I, II, or III (Water Department)

Organization: City of Elkins, West Virginia

Location: 192 High Street Extension, Elkins, WV 26241

Job Code: Ref: SOC: 47-2152.00* (also 47-2151.00 and 51-8031.00)

Status: Non-exempt, hourly - Full Time

Hours: 40 hours per week, with possible overtime/callouts

Salary: $14.50 to $16.50 per hour

Reports To: Water Department Supervisor

Prepared by: Wes Lambert | Date: November 5, 2025

Website: Employment Opportunities | City of Elkins

Position Summary

Under general supervision, the Water Technician performs skilled and semi-skilled work in the installation, maintenance, repair, and operation of the City’s public water system. Duties include installing and repairing water mains and service lines, operating water treatment and distribution equipment, conducting water quality testing, and ensuring safe and reliable water service for the community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Water System Operations

• Assist in installing, maintaining, and repairing water system components, including mains, service lines, meters, hydrants, and treatment facilities.

• Dig and grade trenches; cut, thread, and assemble pipes using hand and power tools.

• Inspect and test pipelines for leaks or pressure issues.

• Collect and test water samples; record and report results.

• Add and monitor treatment chemicals to ensure proper disinfection.

• Operate pumps, valves, and control systems to maintain consistent water flow and pressure.

• Clean and maintain tanks, filters, and related facilities.

Meter Reading and Customer Service

• Read, record, and verify water meter data using handheld devices.

• Perform final readings, re-reads, and service shutoffs or turn-ons as directed.

• Tag doors for delinquent accounts and assist customers as needed.

Equipment and Maintenance

• Operate vehicles and equipment such as dump trucks, backhoes, bobcats, cranes, tampers, jackhammers, and compressors.

• Maintain and repair tools and equipment; calibrate meters and devices.

Safety and Compliance

• Provide traffic control and ensure safety at job sites.

• Follow all City, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations (WVDEP, EPA, etc.).

• Participate in required safety training and promptly report hazards or incidents.

Other Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate work records, logs, and reports.

• Attend meetings and training as required.

• Work cooperatively with City staff, contractors, and the public.

• Assist other departments as needed.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crawling, climbing, and reaching.

• Regular lifting up to 25 lbs; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs; rare lifting up to 100 lbs.

• Requires good vision (close, distance, depth perception, and focus adjustment).

• Must be able to operate tools, vehicles, and heavy equipment and perform physical labor in varying conditions.

Work Environment

• Frequent outdoor work in all weather conditions.

• Occasional indoor work in shops or office settings.

• Exposure to moving machinery, dust, fumes, odors, vibration, and confined spaces.

• Safety gear and protective clothing are required.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Water system experience required per level:

  • Technician I: One to three months

  • Technician II: Three to five years

  • Technician III: Five years or more

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid West Virginia driver’s license required.

• Must obtain or be able to obtain within required timeframes:

  • WV Water Operator-in-Training Certificate

  • WD Certification

  • Class I-III Water Certification

  • Confined Space Entry Certification

  • Water Meter Testing Certification

  • Backflow Certification

  • CDL Certification

  • Other certifications as required by WVDEP or the City’s PWS Manager/Chief Water Operator

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Water distribution and treatment operations.

• Tools, materials, and methods for pipe installation and repair.

• Basic chemistry and water treatment processes.

• Public works safety standards and customer service practices.

Skills in:

• Operating and controlling machinery and water system equipment.

• Active listening, communication, and teamwork.

• Problem-solving, testing, and quality control.

• Time management and recordkeeping.

Ability to:

• Read and interpret maps, blueprints, and technical manuals.

• Perform basic math for flow, volume, and measurement calculations.

• Follow written and verbal instructions.

• Work independently and as part of a team.

• Remain professional and calm in stressful or adverse conditions.

Work Style Competencies

• Dependability

• Integrity

• Attention to Detail

• Teamwork

• Adaptability

• Initiative

• Persistence

• Analytical Thinking

• Stress Tolerance

• Customer Orientation

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

City of Elkins is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, blindness, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and join our team.