Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Under supervision, performs a variety of heavy manual labor tasks which may require exposure to hazardous or unpleasant surroundings and/or assists journeyman tradesmen in construction and maintenance work.

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Works together with other personnel, at times utilizing specialized equipment and tools to perform the following duties in treatment plants, pumping stations, streams and field locations:  cleaning and preventive maintenance on equipment; landscaping installation and maintenance; repair and maintenance of pavement; utility line excavation and backfill; floor care; window washing; concrete and brick work; limited sampling; and typical construction labor activities.
• Inspects assigned tools and equipment, checking for proper operation and availability of accessories; conducts appropriate checks and adjustments including observing, correcting and/or reporting problems or hazards; performs routine minor maintenance for safe operation of tools and equipment.
• Calibrates gas meters; takes and interprets readings.
• Operates power tools and equipment such as electric pumps, drills and fans, generators, air operated jack hammers, gas lawn mowers, snow blowers, chain saws, and small utility vehicles.
• Utilizes a variety of equipment, tools and materials such as sledge hammers, brooms, picks, poles, shovels, fire hoses, railroad ties, switch parts, manhole covers and frames, sand and cement, bricks and ballast.
• Enters and exits manholes, sewers, below ground structures and openings, and open excavations.  Utilizes ladders and work platforms to perform duties.
• Performs various location specific functions related to facilities and ground maintenance and channel and dock maintenance.
• Communicates on a regular basis with supervisors and other personnel through various means to properly conduct, coordinate and carry out assignments.  Maintains written daily logs and fills out field reports.
• Takes prompt corrective action as needed in response to emergency situations, such as: damaged or malfunctioning equipment; vehicular, equipment or personnel accidents; or disrupted operational processes.
• Performs sampling duties including obtaining sample jars and labels from the lab; taking samples; sealing and labeling jars, and delivering samples to the lab.

• Retrieves equipment, tools, materials and supplies from the storeroom as directed.
• May get and record job assignments electronically, using tablets or computers.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Typical duties involve exposure to industrial equipment or operations including working near operating mechanical equipment and loud noise.  Duties may also involve working in close proximity to or in conjunction with construction activities.  Work may be performed in a variety of weather conditions and may involve working in confined spaces or at heights.  Duties could include contact with hazardous or toxic materials and exposure to noxious odors.  Some positions require the operation of a District vehicle.

• Some knowledge of basic hand tools and ability to use them in making simple repairs.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written instructions.
• Ability to make basic decisions regarding safety and the completion of work tasks.
• Physical strength and agility sufficient to lift and move heavy objects and to work long hours while standing.

Ability to read and understand simple instructions at approximately the sixth grade level.  Possession of a valid Illinois driver's license.

• One year of service with the District as a Maintenance Laborer B.
• Civil service status as a Maintenance Laborer B.