JOB SUMMARY:   This position is responsible for the locating and marking of underground natural gas distribution system mains and services. An incumbent in this position may be designated “Locator Technician II.”

MAJOR DUTIES:   Operates locating equipment to locate underground residential and industrial gas mains and services; excavates lines by hand as needed.  Coordinates with contractors to ensure the safe excavation of lines; works with contractors on routes to avoid damage to gas and other utilities; locates and marks existing gas mains and services.  Inspects and maintains equipment.  Provides assistance to Measurement Technicians and construction crews as needed.  Prepares and documents work completed.  Installs and maintains pipeline markers; replaces as needed.  Maintains gas valves.  Completes required training.  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 Journeyman Pipe Fitter, Gas System Operator, and Plastic Pipe Installation certifications.  CPR and First Aid certification.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION:   Knowledge of equipment and tools used in the locating 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.  Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles, trucks, and equipment.  Skill in the operation of a variety of locating equipment.   Skill reading maps.  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 line locating 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 locate underground gas utility 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 includes exposure to hazardous materials with high and low pressures with the possibility of ignition, explosion, or fire. 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 activities.