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Water Distribution Technician III

Summary

Fourth level in a five-level career progression.  Installs and maintains water distribution infrastructure.  Performs a variety of tasks.  Begins/completes the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) plumbing level three curriculum.  Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field.  Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.  Works under general supervision.  Exercises a certain degree of creativity and latitude.  Typically reports to a supervisor/manager.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

  • Begin/complete hands-on training and education curriculum for level three plumbing (delivered by a certified instructor) through NCCER program and demonstrate competency therein
  • Install, maintain, and repair pipes, including operating a jetter to clear lines of 4” and above
  • Analyze underground pipes with video equipment by running a camera up or down the pipe
  • Test piping systems and equipment, including manholes
  • Repair pipefittings; maintains valves and underground pipes
  • Transport, mix, and handle chemicals or use hazardous materials (other than cans of gasoline, batteries, pumping fuel, or access to normal janitorial cleaning materials)
  • Responsible for facilities or equipment carrying current fluids or gas that could endanger the public or other employees
  • Locate and correct sewer and storm distribution line breaks
  • Install, maintain, and repair lift stations, including related electrical and mechanical equipment and drain-waste-vent (DWV) piping for testing and installing
  • Maintain and pull sewer and sump pumps
  • Troubleshoot and maintain lift station control panels (programmable logic controllers (PLCs))
  • Coordinate the pump outs at the lift stations with external vendors
  • Analyze chemical needs at the lift stations for controlling odor and grease based on lift station application
  • Respond to lift station alarms for detecting and troubleshooting issues
  • Install, maintain, and repair pipes, valves, air reliefs, and backflow preventers
  • Inspect, maintain, test, repair, paint, and grease fire hydrants
  • Install temporary meters and backflow assemblies for construction projects
  • Assist in coordinating permanent water meters and installation and testing of backflow preventers 2.5” and above
  • Assist in tracing water and irrigation lines for determining service
  • Inspect, install, maintain, and repair water pump stations, including all mechanical equipment (ex: booster pumps, wells, valves, gauges)
  • Locate and correct water and irrigation distribution line breaks
  • Operate University of Florida (UF) vehicles
  • Lead and guide lower-level technicians
  • Serve as a lead for more complex operation
  • Assist in ensuring lower-level personnel comply with safety guidelines
  • Perform related duties (as assigned)

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma (or equivalent)
  • Completion of NCCER Core and Plumbing Level One, Two and Three

Licensure and Certification

  • Backflow preventer repair certification
  • Backflow preventer testing certification
  • Florida Class E operator (driver) license

Supervision

This position may include supervisory responsibility.

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.