Explore rewarding Distribution & Collection Maintenance Worker II jobs, a critical frontline role within municipal and utility sectors. These skilled professionals are essential to public health and environmental protection, focusing on the construction, upkeep, and emergency repair of community water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Their work ensures clean water reliably reaches homes and businesses and that wastewater is safely conveyed for treatment. Individuals in this profession typically perform a diverse range of hands-on maintenance and construction tasks. Common responsibilities include inspecting, repairing, and replacing components like water mains, service lines, valves, fire hydrants, sewer mains, manholes, and lift stations. They respond to urgent issues such as main breaks, leaks, sewer backups, and pressure loss, performing remediation to restore service quickly and safely. A significant part of the role involves operating a wide array of heavy equipment and specialized vehicles, including dump trucks, backhoes, excavators, jet/vacuum trucks, and skid-steers. Daily duties also involve laying new pipe, tapping into existing mains, disinfecting water lines, performing preventive maintenance, and documenting all work activities. These jobs often require participation in a rotating on-call schedule for after-hours emergencies. To succeed in Distribution & Collection Maintenance Worker II jobs, candidates generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, combined with one to two years of prior experience in a related trade or a lower-level maintenance worker position. A core requirement is possessing a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), typically Class B with relevant endorsements. Industry-specific certifications, such as a state-level Water Distribution and/or Wastewater Collection Operator certificate (often Entry-Level or Grade 1), are commonly required or highly advantageous. The role demands strong mechanical aptitude, proficiency with hand and power tools, and a thorough understanding of safety protocols for confined spaces, trenching, and public works operations. Physically, these are demanding jobs requiring the ability to perform heavy manual labor in all weather conditions, including lifting heavy materials, digging, and working in challenging environments. Key soft skills include problem-solving, clear verbal and written communication for interacting with the public and supervisors, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a crew. For those seeking a stable, hands-on career with a direct impact on community infrastructure, Distribution & Collection Maintenance Worker II jobs offer a challenging and vital career path with opportunities for skill development and advancement into supervisory or specialist roles.
