The Engineering Technicians II and IV conduct water main replacement, water distribution system repair, and lead service line replacement inspections to ensure compliance with and enforcement of Milwaukee Water Works (MWW) specifications.
Eligible candidates who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the highest-level eligible list for which they qualify.
Essential Functions
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN IV
- Conduct thorough inspections and provide detailed documentation of water main alterations, extensions, and replacements, as well as lead service line replacements.
- Assist in the coordination and scheduling of work associated with contracted projects.
- Oversee the overall construction project to ensure it is performed in a timely and cost-effective manner.
- Approve or reject materials based upon specifications and acceptable tolerances.
- Communicate with MWW inventory staff as to the status of materials inspected and tested.
- Communicate material defect findings to vendors and manufacturers.
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II
- Assist in the inspection of water main alterations, extensions, replacements, and lead service line replacement projects.
BOTH POSITIONS
- Enforce proper construction methods and MWW specifications.
- Ensure that proper excavation, safety, and traffic control procedures are implemented and followed.
- Inspect and test water main pipes, valves, hydrants, fittings, and all other material used as part of the MWW distribution system.
- Document inspections, including manual drafting, written documentation, data entry into computer software, and the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment.
- Provide customer outreach and communication for those affected by construction activities.
- Ensure the contractor provides adequate clean-up of the site when completed.
- Conduct testing and visual inspection of materials to ensure quality of supplies and project completion, including fire flow and hydrostatic testing, pressure testing, torque testing, and weights and measurements.
- Conduct hydrant flow tests to establish hydraulic analyses and studies and to determine system robustness.
- Conduct inspection of emergency leak repairs by contractors.
- Conduct field investigations to troubleshoot system anomalies such as pressure fluctuations and pumping operations.
- Prepare detailed written reports of inspections to document findings.
- Document contractor activities, assist with the inventory and inspection of repair materials, and complete work orders and requisitions.
- Install, monitor, and report results from pressure recording devices.
- Assist with calibration of the MWW hydraulic model.
- Maintain communication with the Control Center regarding the status of jobs.
- Consult with area management regarding contractor difficulties or complications.
We welcome qualified individuals with disabilities who are interested in employment and will make reasonable accommodations during the hiring process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008.
Conditions of Employment
The Engineer Technician II/IV must be willing and able to do the following:
- Work overtime and respond to emergency call-outs.
- Climb ladders, enter confined spaces, and wear confined space safety equipment.
- Lift and transport 50 pounds or more of equipment or material.
- Stand for long periods of time.
- Wear appropriate safety equipment, including safety shoes, glasses, and hearing protection.
- Work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for extended periods of time.
The preplacement medical requirements for this title include the following:
- Physical test
- Audiogram
- Vision test
- Drug Test
Minimum Requirements
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II
1. Two years of engineering or construction experience performing duties similar to the essential functions listed above.
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN IV
1. An Associate Degree in civil engineering from an accredited college or university AND two years of engineering or construction experience performing duties similar to the essential functions listed above.
OR
Four years of experience as a municipal utility engineering technician, surveying technician, public works inspector, or construction materials inspector performing work related to the essential functions of the position.
BOTH POSITIONS
2. Valid driver’s license at time of appointment and throughout employment.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
NOTE: College-level engineering curriculum courses, for which an average grade equivalent to “C” was earned, may be substituted for up to two years of the required experience. Substitution will be made on the basis of five credits equals three months of experience, and no substitution will be made for fewer than five credits.
NOTICE: Please do not attach your academic transcripts to your employment application. The hiring department will verify candidates’ education as part of the background screening process prior to extending any job offers.
Desirable Qualifications
- Knowledge of Microstation and ESRI software for geographic information systems (GIS).
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Characteristics
TECHNICAL
- Ability to serve as the primary on-site coordinator for water main construction projects (Engineering Technician IV).
- Knowledge of construction methods and techniques.
- Proficiency with standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office.
- Ability to produce accurate daily inspection reports, detailed plans, drawings, maps, and diagrams using CAD/(GIS) software.
- Ability to read and interpret technical job-related documents.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, technical drawings, and specifications.
- Ability to use proper tools to measure, estimate, and verify construction project specifications.
- Knowledge of construction safety principles and the ability to perform work in a safe manner.
COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL
- Written communication skills, including the ability to write technical reports and business correspondence.
- Verbal communication skills in order to effectively communicate with internal and external customers.
- Interpersonal and teamwork skills to be able to develop and maintain effective working relationships with managers and colleagues.
- Ability to work cooperatively, effectively, and fairly with coworkers and residents whose backgrounds may differ from one’s own.
CRITICAL THINKING
- Problem-solving and analytical skills, including the ability to evaluate options and find the best solutions.
- Planning, organizational, and time management skills, including the ability to prioritize work with varying deadlines.
- Ability to maintain accurate records.
- Honesty and the ability to use City resources responsibly.
Current Salary
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II
The current salary range (PR 3QN) is $64,118-$85,905 annually, and the current resident incentive salary range for City of Milwaukee residents is $66,683-$89,341 annually. Appointment above the minimum is possible based upon level of experience and other qualifications and is subject to approval.
ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN IV
The current salary range (Pay Range 3TN) is $68,389-$87,738 annually, and the current resident incentive salary range for City of Milwaukee residents is $71,125-$91,247 annually. Appointment above the minimum is possible based upon level of experience and other qualifications and is subject to approval.