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Senior Water Pipe Worker WDM-II

Seattle Public Utilities, Seattle, WA, United States


Position Overview
Seattle Public Utilities has multiple opportunities for experienced Senior Water Pipe Workers. These positions provide leadership to Water Pipe Workers and apprentices in the Water Operations and System Maintenance Division. The successful candidates will report to Water Pipe Crew Chiefs and may be assigned to one of four reporting locations: Lake Youngs (16205 SE Old Petrovitsky Rd, Renton), Tolt (13510 Carnation-Duvall Rd, Duvall), North Operations Center (1318 N 128th St, Seattle), or Operations Control Center (2700 Airport Way S, Seattle).

Job Responsibilities

Meet with the Crew Chief to receive assignments, discuss job options and strategies, visit job sites, and plan scope of work prior to starting.

Receive new work, fill out work orders, submit completed work orders, and record work details using automated wireless, handheld, and workstation devices and other software programs.

Ensure the safe operation of equipment including service trucks, dump trucks, hydro‑lifts, truck‑mounted cranes, backhoes, dozers, graders, tractor‑mowers, water tapping machines, pipe cutters, valve machines, welding devices, and hand tools; inspect service trucks for proper operation and needed maintenance.

Read and interpret construction and design blueprints to determine correct location and grade for all installations and identify possible obstructions or conflicts that could change work plans.

Explain City standard plans for installation and repair of water transmission and distribution systems and impacts to customers and the public as needed.

Instruct crews on materials required and work expectations regarding work practices and production requirements.

Direct, coach, train and mentor Water Pipe Workers, Water Pipe Worker Apprentices, and temporary employees.

Assist in the development and drafting of curriculum and teach classes for the apprenticeship program and new employees.

Conduct monthly evaluations.

Direct Construction Maintenance and Equipment Operators (CMEO) and Senior CMEOs, truck drivers, heavy truck drivers, temporary and contracted employees.

Qualifications

One year of journey‑level experience in water system utility construction, maintenance, and repair of distribution and/or transmission systems and related facilities.

Completion of Seattle Public Utilities’ two‑year Water Pipe Worker Apprenticeship Program or a closely related apprenticeship program; or

Two years of experience in the pipe‑fitting trade or pipe‑fitting experience in water works construction, maintenance and repair.

One year of journey‑level experience in municipal water utility construction, maintenance and repair.

License, Certification & Other Requirements

Must possess a current Washington State Commercial Driver’s License (CDL Class B).

Must possess and maintain Washington State Department of Health Water Distribution Manager II Certification (WDMII) through continuing education unit requirements.

Success Factors

Good written and oral communication skills.

Excellent customer‑service skills; ability to inform residents and coordinate repairs and installations.

Knowledge of computer programs including Maximo, Outlook, and Datasplice.

Leadership skills to resolve crew conflicts, enforce City policies, and address customer complaints and concerns professionally.

Good interpersonal skills, ability to work with diverse backgrounds, and a desire to learn new skills.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Must be able to work nights, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as part of a rotational shift; willingness to participate in voluntary standby rotation.

Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions and emergencies, around heavy equipment, high‑pressure water systems and tools, exposed to traffic, chemical fumes, contaminated soil, and loud noise.

Digging, bending, stooping, and lifting objects weighing in excess of 50 lbs. required.

Must have good attendance and willingness to work at any of the four Water Operations facilities.

Application Requirements

Fully complete the online application and supplemental questionnaire.

Selected candidates may be invited to a written test, working test, and interview.

Safety program requires a pre‑employment medical assessment.

May be asked to acquire a Full Washington Driver’s Abstract if selected to advance.

Who May Apply
The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Benefits
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave, as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long‑term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

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