Gas System Operator I

Job:                               Gas System Operator

Department:              Gas

Salary:                         Grade 12

Hours:                         Day Hours - Occasional Overtime                      

Summary:

Perform a variety of manual and semi-skilled tasks in the inspection, maintenance, and installation of the gas distribution system.  Works under the supervision of the Gas Superintendent. 

Primary Responsibility:

• Install and repair natural gas pipeline main, service lines, residential and industrial gas valves, regulators and meter sets
• Tap gas lines under pressure for the installation of new services
• Install meters, and set regulator to proper pressure
• Inspect and service district regulator station equipment
• Operate and continually update GPS mapping equipment and systems
• Daily readings of select consumers and Gate Station Meters and estimate future usage for the entire system
• Locate underground gas pipeline facilities for other utilities, contractors and residential excavations
• Recognize signs of leaks, corrosion or damage to pipeline facilities and repair or monitor problems found
• Investigate and grade leaks on gas system facilities
• Investigate leaks inside homes or businesses and take appropriate action to protect life and property
• Available 24/7 to respond to emergency calls within 30 minutes
• Check odorization levels
• Check cathodic protection levels and rectifier reading
• Conduct inspections and make necessary repairs to system isolation valves
• Document work performed. Maintain current map records of new lines and services and keep records of all components installed underground
• Conduct annual leak survey of all high pressure and distribution mains and service lines around schools, churches, businesses and downtown Alex City, and 20% of all residential mains and services

Job Requirements:

• Be a graduate of an accredited high school or have a GED
• Must have a valid driver’s license and possess a driving record suitable for insurability
• Must be able to obtain CDL within 6 months, and to also obtain an Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Journeyman License (within four years) and complete joining polyethylene pipe qualification, butt fusion, electrofusion and mechanical joints (within 6 months) 
• Must be able to effectively communicate in order to receive instructions and communicate with the public on repair and service issues
• Must be willing to work in and around hazardous conditions including explosive atmosphere and confined spaces 
• Successful candidate will have experience in operating backhoe, trencher and excavator
• Must have a working knowledge of natural gas appliances and systems  
• Overnight travel will be required to attend continuing education courses and workshops
• Required to be on an on-call rotation
• Must be able to pass Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) drug screen regularly throughout the year.

Posting Dates:  7/19/22 – 8/2/22

City Employees interested in this position should contact Kathy Railey at 256-329-6782.

Seniority alone will not be the determining factor.  Applicants must meet all requirements. 

External applicants may complete an application on-line at alexandercityal.gov, or obtain one at the Municipal Complex.

Alexander City is an Equal Opportunity Employer