Job Summary:  This position is responsible for the installation of natural gas lines. An incumbent in this position may be designated “Service Installer II.” 

Major Duties:   Operates backhoe, trencher, tractor, jackhammer, and/or shovels and other tools to dig and fill trenches.  Installs and replaces gas lines; installs new mains and extensions, regulator settings, and piping.  Replaces leaking distribution mains.  Welds valves and pipes as needed; uses plastic fusion equipment to join pipes.   Performs pipe cutting and pipe fitting, including pressure testing.  Replaces dirt or repairs pavement when job is completed.  Performs safety and maintenance inspections of equipment; reports repair needs to supervisor; performs basic equipment maintenance, including oiling and greasing machinery.  Installs safe work zones at jobs sites; wears required protective gear.   Assists in conducting leak surveys, including surveys of transmission lines, industrial customer piping, and system update surveys.  Operates CGI meters to identify gas leaks; calibrates leak detection equipment.   Identifies the presence of a leaks and hazard level; secures the area and protects life and property; locates the source of leaks and shuts off customer lines and appliance; contacts supervisor to request repair crew as needed; documents hazard level and measures taken.  Lights customer pilot lights.  Completes required training.  Reports all accidents and completes accident reports; follows medical protocols for injuries.  Notifies supervisor immediately of mechanical problems, safety and health hazards, customer service problems, and other non-standard operating conditions.  Monitors and ensures that all confined space entry is preceded by atmospheric testing and is done with the appropriate equipment to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations.  Responds to after-hours emergencies as required.   Performs related duties.

Minimum Qualifications:  18 year or older.  High School Diploma, GED and/or equivalent work experience.  Valid Alabama Driver’s license.  Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.  Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Class A commercial driver’s license. Possession of or ability to readily obtain Journeyman Pipe Fitter, Journeyman Gas Fitters, and Plastic Pipe Installation certifications.  Possession of or ability to readily obtain Operator Qualifications and certification as related to the tasks performed.  CPR and First Aid certification. 

Knowledge Required By The Position:   Knowledge of equipment and tools used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of gas lines.  Knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions associated with working around gas lines.  Knowledge of OSHA and DOT regulations.  Knowledge of county and departmental safety policies and procedures.  Knowledge of the geography of the county, including road names and locations.  Knowledge of gas pipeline safety.  Knowledge of equipment operation safety guidelines.  Knowledge of emergency procedures.  Knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving principles.  Skill in identifying potential safety hazards.   Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles, trucks, and heavy equipment.  Skill in the operation of leak detection equipment.  Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.  Skill in the use of hand and power tools.   Skill in planning and prioritizing work.   Skill in oral and written communication.

Complexity/Scope Of Work:  The work consists of related gas service installation duties. Inclement weather, heavy traffic, and dangers associated with working around natural gas lines contribute to the complexity of the position.  The purpose of this position is to install and repair gas lines. Successful performance contributes to the provision of safe and well-maintained gas distribution system.

Physical Demands/ Work Environment:  The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, bending, crouching, or stooping.  The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.   The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts. The work poses danger of gas igniting while installing, repairing, or servicing lines and equipment. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc. Physical strength, ability, and mobility to perform all essential job functions with or without accommodation. Must be willing to work overtime, non-standard work hours, holidays, shifts, and weekends as necessary.  Must be willing to be on-call. 

City Application Required.  Apply at City of Athens Human Resources, City Hall Municipal Offices, located at 200 W. Hobbs St., Athens.  Inquiries: 256-233-8737 or City website www.athensal.us.    The City of Athens is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all facets of the Americans with Disabilities Act.   All reasonable accommodations will be considered for qualified applicants.  The City is a drug-free workplace.   Pre-employment drug screen and physical required. The City of Athens does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services, programs, or ac