utility systems worker i

Position Information
Under direct supervision, receives training and performs maintenance and repair assignments on Washoe County recycled water distribution systems, sanitary sewer collection systems, and stormwater management and conveyance facilities; and performs related work as required.

This is an Open Competitive/Countywide Promotional recruitment being conducted to fill a current full-time vacancy in the Community Services Department. The list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.

The Utility Systems Worker I/II positions are in a flexibly staffed class series. The hiring department has the discretion to hire at any level within the class series for which the applicant may be qualified. Applicants interested in being considered for the Utility Systems Worker I and the Utility Systems Worker II must submit an application for each position.
For more information on this position, please see the Job Specification at

Minimum Qualifications
One year of full-time experience as a laborer in a construction or building maintenance work environment; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.

License Or Certificate
A valid Class "A" State of Nevada Commercial Driver's License must be obtained within six months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

Must obtain OSHA 10 certification within six months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

Must obtain OSHA Confined space training and certification within six months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

Must obtain NV Flagging and Traffic Control Technician certifications within six months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

Must obtain Nevada Water Environment Association Collection System Operator I certificate within eighteen months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

The Ideal Candidate
The Utility Systems Worker I position is a hands-on, safety-conscious team player who takes pride in maintaining critical public infrastructure. They are eager to learn and grow in a utility career, possess strong mechanical aptitude, and thrive in outdoor, physically demanding environments.

• Dependable and hardworking — shows up on time, ready to work, and can handle physically demanding labor in all weather conditions.
• Safety-focused — committed to following safety protocols, wearing protective gear, and maintaining awareness in potentially hazardous environments (confined spaces, roadways, exposure to chemicals, etc.).
• Mechanically inclined — understands or can quickly learn to operate and maintain tools, vehicles, pumps, and other utility-related equipment.
• Eager to learn — motivated to obtain required certifications (OSHA, confined space, flagging, CDL, etc.) and grow into higher-level Utility Worker roles.
• Team-oriented — works cooperatively with crew members and supervisor; communicates clearly and respectfully.
• Detail-oriented — keeps accurate records, reads and interprets maps and plans, and reports field data accurately.
• Problem-solver — able to assess field situations (e.g., sewer overflow, line blockage) and take prompt, appropriate action.
• Willingness to work around water, wastewater, or stormwater systems (preferred)

Conditions of Employment
The Washoe County Employees Association (WCEA) Non-Supervisory Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) covers the Utility Systems Worker I position.

Background checks will be conducted on selected applicants through the State of Nevada and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Per the Washoe County Background and Reference Checks Policy, new and rehired employees are required to submit to a fingerprint-based background investigation. Effective January 1, 2025, the $39.00 fee associated with this background investigation will be paid by the employee (if applicable) and deducted automatically from the first paycheck. Employment is contingent upon the results of the background check, although a record of conviction will not necessarily bar an applicant from employment.

Washoe County requires its employees to reside in the state of Nevada or neighboring California communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe or Susanville as of their first day of work.

Washoe County hires all new employees at the minimum rate of the salary range and eligible employees may receive an annual merit increase of 5% until they reach the maximum salary for the classification. Upon promotion, current Washoe County employees are placed at the minimum rate of the salary range for the higher classification of the new position OR a promotional calculation, whichever is greater.

What Happens Next

• After your application is screened, you will be notified via the email you provided whether you have met the minimum requirements for the position. Those applicants who do not meet the qualifications have one (1) business day to file an appeal and request a review of their qualifications.
• Applicants who meet the minimum requirements will receive an email invitation to take the Professional Level online exam administered remotely; notices will be delivered within 1 week from the closing of the recruitment.

This exam link will tentatively be delivered via email the week of January 12, 2025, and qualified candidates will have a time limit to complete the exam, within 4 calendar days. **You will be notified if you are eligible to