Temporary Utility Worker

City of Newport • Newport, OR

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Join the team that keeps our streets, water distribution, and wastewater systems operating safely and efficiently. The City of Newport is seeking up to four Temporary Utility Worker employees to support seasonal operations within the Public Works Department. These temporary roles provide essential assistance during the summer and fall maintenance season and offer opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the maintenance of streets, water distribution, and wastewater collection operations. Assignments will be made based on operational needs and candidate qualifications following the interview process. Duties will vary by division and may include:
Streets Division (2 positions: approx. 8–10 weeks, up to full-time hours)
Perform vegetation control, roadside maintenance, and litter removal
Assist with pavement marking and striping operations during favorable weather
Support general maintenance activities to improve transportation system safety and appearance
Water Distribution Division (1 position: approx. 5 months, up to full-time hours)
Provide grounds maintenance at pump stations and water system facilities
Conduct vegetation control, site cleanup, and hydrant maintenance
Support general maintenance activities for the upkeep of drinking water infrastructure
Wastewater Collections Division (1 position: approx. 5 months, up to full-time hours)
Assist with grounds maintenance and cleanup at wastewater lift stations
Perform vegetation control, litter and debris removal, and general site maintenance
Support general maintenance activities to improve accessibility and operation of the wastewater collection system

Requirements

• Ability to perform physical labor in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions
• Willingness to adhere to all safety policies and utilize provided PPE
• Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and complete assigned tasks efficiently
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record required
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with City staff and the public
• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum of 1-year experience in construction or related field
• Knowledge of field installation of underground utilities; construction; and maintenance and repair of heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of occupational hazard and effective/proper safety standards, practices and procedures related to equipment operation, heavy labor, and the use of hand and power tools and equipment.
• Familiarity with the operations, materials, methods, techniques, as well as the Federal and State guidelines used in water distribution.
• Skill in the use of personal computers, various related software programs, standard office equipment, heavy equipment, including backhoe, and hand and power tools.
• Proficiency in routine vehicle maintenance, service, and refueling.
• Proficiency in identifying and working with and around utility locates (call in, identify markings).
• Understanding and proficiency of radio communication protocol.
• Customer Service orientation and skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, strong oral communications skills with a variety of audiences; ability to communicate complex material in a simple, understandable manner; Strong reasoning, analysis, and problem solving skills combined with excellent judgment and professionalism.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with City management, employees, Council members, other entities, and the public.
• Ability to write work reports and maintain records and logs; read and interpret technical manuals, work orders, blueprints, diagrams, and sketches;
• Ability to work independently and effectively and cooperatively within a team structure.
• Ability to follow written and verbal direction.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with individuals and groups.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment and hand/power tools used in public works operations.
• Physical ability to perform the essential job functions.
• Ability to operate a computer and familiar with the Microsoft Office suite of software.

Responsibilities

• Perform vegetation control, roadside maintenance, and litter removal
• Assist with pavement marking and striping operations during favorable weather
• Support general maintenance activities to improve transportation system safety and appearance
• Provide grounds maintenance at pump stations and water system facilities
• Conduct vegetation control, site cleanup, and hydrant maintenance
• Support general maintenance activities for the upkeep of drinking water infrastructure
• Assist with grounds maintenance and cleanup at wastewater lift stations
• Perform vegetation control, litter and debris removal, and general site maintenance
• Support general maintenance activities to improve accessibility and operation of the wastewater collection system

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED