Lead Water Technician

1-800 Water Damage•Hayward, CA

About The Position

The Lead Water Technician manages and performs water damage restoration projects from initial assessment through completion. The role uses Xactimate to prepare detailed, accurate estimates for insurance claims and ensures estimates meet industry standards and insurance requirements. The technician leads a team, assesses damage, plans and performs restoration work, manages equipment, documents project activity, communicates with clients and insurers, and verifies work quality and safety. The work includes water extraction, drying, dehumidification, mold remediation, and other mitigation and restoration tasks. The position involves residential and possibly commercial properties, travel between work sites, and potential exposure to mold, contaminants, and hazardous materials. Physical work includes lifting heavy equipment, working in confined spaces, and extended standing and bending. On-call emergency duties may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. This is a full-time, on-the-road role serving Hayward, Emeryville, and the East Bay in California. The stated pay is $30–$35 per hour. The job description notes that duties may change as needed and that the franchise is independently owned and operated.

Requirements

Five years of water damage restoration experience.
Three years of Xactimate experience and proficiency with the software.
IICRC WRT certification.
Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response training.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Proficiency in MICA or similar job documentation software for moisture mapping, drying logs, and reporting.
Leadership and team management skills.
Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
Knowledge of water damage restoration equipment and techniques.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Ability to work in physically demanding and sometimes adverse conditions.

Nice To Haves

Additional IICRC certifications are highly favorable.

Responsibilities

Oversee water damage restoration projects from assessment and planning through execution and quality control.
Use Xactimate to prepare detailed, accurate cost estimates that comply with industry standards and insurance requirements.
Lead restoration technicians by assigning tasks, monitoring progress, and ensuring efficient, high-quality work.
Assess water damage, identify affected areas, and plan restoration techniques and equipment requirements.
Lead water extraction, drying, dehumidification, mold remediation, and other restoration work, and implement measures to minimize future damage.
Oversee the operation and maintenance of water restoration equipment.
Maintain project records, including photographs, moisture readings, reports, and Xactimate estimates; document work in MICA or similar software.
Communicate with clients and insurance companies about progress, timelines, and additional services.
Enforce safety protocols and ensure safe use of chemicals and equipment.
Inspect completed restoration work to ensure it meets industry standards and client expectations.
Be available for emergency on-call duties, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.