Utility Maintenance Worker
Salary
$51,255.00 - $61,865.00 Annually
Location
Duluth, MN
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
A26054
Department
Public Works & Utilities
Division
Utility Operations
Opening Date
05/26/2026
Closing Date
6/16/2026 11:59 PM Central
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit
Basic
Probation Period
12 months
Eligible List Duration
4 months
Job Posting Information
SUMMARY/PURPOSE
To assist in the maintenance, repair, and installation of City-owned utilities.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
This is the entry-level class within the Utility Operations Division. Employees at this level assist other Utility Operations personnel while learning the operations and procedures.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
For both one-of-a-kind and repetitive tasks, the supervisor makes specific assignments that are accompanied by clear, detailed, and specific instructions. Incumbents work as instructed and consult with the supervisor.
SUPERVISION GIVEN
Does not supervise.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned)
Assist with excavation work including digging, shoring, and backfilling trenches.
Operate jackhammers and other equipment used to repair underground utilities.
Prepare concrete and other mixtures used in the repair of utilities.
Assist in the operation of portable or temporary pumping equipment.
Assist with receipt and storage of materials used to maintain and repair utilities.
Operate equipment, such as a tandem dump truck, requiring a Class "B" commercial drivers license.
Assist in stocking service vehicles as needed.
Assist in pipefitting work including cutting, threading, and tapping, fitting, cementing, and calking pipes.
Assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of valves, stop boxes, drips, taps, water pumping stations, hydrants, air valves, force mains, manholes, catch basins, and other utility structures.
Dispose of demolition debris such as broken concrete, blacktop, and pipe materials, and deliver to appropriate dumpsites.
Assist in the operation, inspection, and testing of hydrants, air valves, water pumping stations, and other utility structures.
Operate a variety of motorized vehicles, power tools, and hand tools.
Assist in the maintenance and inspection of stormwater sedimentation basins and grizzlies.
Perform light maintenance, cleaning, and daily service checklist on vehicles.
Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of indoor garage areas, including sweeping, hosing floors, washing walls, and other cleaning as needed.
Set up and maintain traffic control equipment.
Assist in plowing and hauling snow from around utility facilities.
Assist in the operation of equipment used in sewer line maintenance.
Assist in maintenance of water pumping stations.
Assist in operation of the steamer during ice removal in culverts and water facilities.
Provide information to customers related to utility operations in a professional manner.
Be an effective team member by exhibiting self-motivation, supporting other employees in handling tasks, interacting effectively and respectfully with others, showing a desire to contribute to the team effort, accepting assignments willingly, and completing tasks within agreed upon timelines.
Other duties may be assigned.
Job Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
Education & Experience Requirements
A. A minimum of one (1) year of verifiable experience in utility construction or maintenance or a position with equivalent duties.
License Requirements
A. Possess and maintain a valid Minnesota Class D drivers license or privilege.
B. Ability to obtain a Minnesota Class B commercial drivers license with tanker endorsement within twelve (12) months of hire date.
Knowledge Requirements
A. Knowledge of defensive driving techniques and vehicle operation regulations.
B. Knowledge of OSHA and Commercial Driving License regulations.
C. Basic knowledge of general safety practices and procedures.
D. Knowledge of basic construction work methods and procedures related to the maintenance and repair of utilities.
E. Basic knowledge of the use, operation, and maintenance of pumps and compressors.
F. Knowledge of safe trenching methods.
G. Knowledge of gas- and diesel-powered equipment used in the repair and maintenance of utilities.
H. Knowledge of problem-solving and conflict-resolution techniques.
I. Knowledge of applicable safety requirements.
J. Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, City policies and procedures.
Skill Requirements
A. Skill in setting up appropriate traffic controls.
B. Skill in using hand and power tools in utility construction.
C. Skill in operating and maintaining vehicles used in a utility setting.
D. Skill in the operation of office equipment including, but not limited to, general computer systems, job required software applications, the internet, and modern office equipment.
E. Skill in managing ones own time.
F. Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
Ability Requirements
A. Ability to safely operate and maintain motorized equipment according to City policies and procedures and to obey all traffic and vehicle operation laws.
B. Ability to use good judgment and work under direction of others.
C. Ability to identify and operate a variety of hand and power tools.
D. Ability to communicate and follow oral and written instructions.
E. Ability to create and maintain a positive working environment that welcomes diversity, ensures cooperation, and promotes respect by sharing expertise with team members, fostering safe work practices, and developing trusting work relationships.
F. Ability to communicate and interact effectively with members of the public.
G. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
H. Ability to understand and follow instructions.
I. Ability to problem-solve a variety of situations.
J. Ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time.
K. Ability to attend work as scheduled and/or required.
Physical Demands
The work requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities; recurring lifting of moderately heavy items such as record boxes. The work may require specific, but common, physical characteristics and abilities such as above.
Work Environment
The work environment involves moderate risks or discomforts requiring special safety precautions (e.g., working around moving parts, carts, or machines, or with contagious diseases or irritant chemicals). Employees may be required to use protective clothing or gear such as masks, gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shields.
Selection Process Information
Education & Experience Review (50% of scoring process; 70 pass point)
Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience, as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire.
Performance Exam (50% of scoring process; 70 pass point)
Top scoring applicants and veterans preference applicants who earn passing scores on prior exam steps will advance to the Performance Exam. Individuals moving forward will be notified regarding the date, time, and location of the exam. Applicants who pass all required exams will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.
Safety Sensitive Job
This position is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and is subject to ongoing random drug testing during employment.
Non-Discrimination
The City of Duluth is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
Alternative Exam Process (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
For individuals who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at 218-730-5210, as soon as possible prior to the scheduled date of the exam. TDD services are available through 218-730-5630.
Work Eligibility
In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Duluth requires verification of identity and work eligibility at the point of hire.
Right to Appeal (does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, temporary, or part-time non-union selections)
Any applicant who has been found qualified to participate in a selection process for a position in the classified service who has reason to contest the validity or fairness of any step in the selection process may appeal to the Civil Service Board within 10 calendar days of the examination. (If the examination is an Education & Experience Review, the applicant must appeal within 10 calendar days of the closing date for accepting applications.) The notice of appeal shall be in writing, shall contain a complete statement of the matter in controversy and the relief requested, and shall be signed and dated by the appellant. The notice shall be addressed to the Civil Service Board and be delivered to the Human Resources Office. If an applicant wishes to file an appeal electronically, the notice should be sent by email to hrinformation@duluthmn.gov.
VETERANS PREFERENCE
Does not apply to Charter Appointment, provisional, seasonal, temporary, or part-time non-union selections
To apply for Veterans Preference, the applicant must attach the required documents when submitting their application.
OPEN SELECTIONS
Veteran
Required Documents:
Disabled Veteran
Required Documents:
Spouse of Disabled Veteran
Required Documents:
Eligibility:
Spouse of Deceased Veteran
Required Documents:
Eligibility:
PROMOTIONAL OR INTERNAL SELECTIONS
Points are only awarded to Disabled Veterans score one time, on first promotional or internal only selection process after securing City employment.
Disabled Veteran
Required Documents:
Please refer to Minnesota Statute 197.455 for additional information about Veterans Preference.
Eligible City of Duluth employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
Benefits are prorated for part-time employees and administered in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement or management compensation plan.
01
This position requires a minimum of one year of experience in utility construction or maintenance or a position with equivalent duties. Please describe your work experience in utility construction or maintenance. Include work performed and what tools or equipment you used.
02
Which best describes your current drivers license status?
03
Are you willing and able to obtain and maintain a valid Minnesota Class B driver's license or privilege with Tanker endorsement within 12 months of hire?
04
Please describe your experience working outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
Required Question
Employer City of Duluth
Address 411 W 1st St
Duluth, Minnesota, 55802
Phone 218-730-5210