Trades Helper (Pay Grade 16) AFSCME Local Union 459

New Castle County Government•New Castle, DE

About The Position

Performs skilled junior-level work assisting a journey-level tradesperson with maintenance, repair, and construction. Work is assigned and guided by a journey-level tradesperson. As the employee gains experience and training, assignments become more responsible, and some may be performed independently. Once fully trained, the employee is expected to be capable of performing journeyperson-level work in a skilled trade such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, welding, pump station mechanics, painting, masonry, or television/grouter equipment operation. The role may include assisting tradespeople with installation, repair, fabrication, inspection, and equipment maintenance; independently performing certain tasks within the employee’s capabilities; and performing Maintenance and Construction Worker duties when not assisting with trade work. The employee may attend occupational training classes and operates a personal computer and related equipment as part of the work. The position promotes excellent public service and high-quality service to internal and external customers. An eligible list will be established for one year and used to fill vacancies during that period. Selection may include an evaluation of training and experience, written or computerized examinations, an oral board interview, a performance examination, or a combination of these. New employees are generally hired at the starting salary and may be eligible for annual merit increases based on satisfactory performance, up to the maximum salary.

Requirements

At least one year of experience in maintenance and repair work, and a high school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of directly related experience, education, or training.
Some knowledge of common and specialized tools, related instruments, and power tools used in construction and maintenance, particularly those related to the assigned trade.
Ability to carry out written and oral directions.
Ability to learn the principles, practices, methods, and operation of tools and equipment used by skilled tradespeople.
Ability to communicate courteously and effectively, verbally and in writing.
Possession of a valid Delaware Class D driver's license or equivalent.
Ability to pass a Class II County physical examination and background check.

Responsibilities

Assist carpenters with installation and repair of roofs, walls, doors, cabinets, shelving, window air-conditioners, bulletin boards, wall and floor coverings, glazing, and hardware.
Assist plumbers with cutting, threading, and installing pipe; installing and repairing fixtures and plumbing systems, including water supply and heating lines; and installing and servicing pumps and motors.
Assist electricians with installing electrical wiring, repairing electrical motors, and repairing electrical circuits and devices.
Assist electricians and electronic technicians with troubleshooting, programming, and repairing electronic controls, PLCs, and instruments.
Assist pump station mechanics with assembling and disassembling centrifugal pumps, greasing and cleaning pumps, and changing and cutting gaskets.
Assist welders with fabrication and installation work, torch cutting materials, and operating acetylene and electric welding equipment.
Assist masons with laying brick, block, and stone with mortar; finishing concrete; building catch basins; plastering; and repair work.
Assist painters with painting the interiors and exteriors of buildings and other painting tasks.
Assist television/grouter equipment operators in operating cameras and grout equipment to inspect and repair sewer lines and in setting up and maintaining equipment.
Independently perform tasks within skill capability, such as conducting pump station operational checks and reporting data and deficiencies, replacing broken window panes, removing and replacing meter data storage discs, spot painting, and repointing masonry joints.
Perform Maintenance and Construction Worker duties when not performing the above duties.
Attend training classes in specific occupational skills as needed.
Promote excellent public service and provide high-quality service to internal and external customers.
Operate a personal computer and related equipment in the course of work.