Underground Crafts & Trades Worker (WATER AND WASTEWATER OPR)

Under direction of the Underground Operations Superintendent, provide journey-level plumbing/utility skills for installation, alteration, operation, and maintenance of campus utility systems including water, sewer, storm drainage, swimming pool and natural gas systems.

Apply By Date March 13^th, 2026 by 11:59PM

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Completion of a recognized union or university apprenticeship program, accredited trade school, or equivalent journey-level experience in underground utility pipe fitting and construction trades.
• Journey-level knowledge and hands-on experience in underground utility pipe fitting, installation, maintenance, and construction practices.
• Ability to fabricate, install, maintain, repair, and replace campus utility infrastructure and related systems.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications within designated timeframes: Grade 1 Water Distribution Operator (within 24 months), Backflow/Cross Connection training (within 12 months), and Asbestos Cement Pipe Worker certification (within 12 months).
• Valid California driver's license and ability to meet driving record requirements, including enrollment in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.
• Ability to read and interpret technical data, blueprints, mechanical specifications, and documentation related to water, sewer, storm drainage, natural gas, and pool systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience safely operating heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, dump trucks/trailers, cranes, forklifts, trenchers, and related machinery.
• Experience performing quality control inspections and maintenance/construction project observations.
• Working knowledge of regulatory requirements governing domestic water, sewer, storm drainage, natural gas, and pool systems.
• Math skills are sufficient to perform system calculations (e.g., unit conversions, volume calculations, chemical feed rate determinations).
• Computer skills to manage work assignments, track costs, and schedule tasks.
• Knowledge of approved safety practices, tools, and equipment used in plumbing and utility system maintenance, along with strong customer service skills.

Key Responsibilities

• 90% - Maintenance & Operation
• 5% - Safety and Record Keeping
• 5% - Job Supervision and Coordination

Department Overview

Utilities is responsible for providing mission-critical utility services to keep the UC Davis campus running in support of the campus Academic Plan and academic program needs. Utilities provides electricity, chilled water, heating hot water, steam, gas, water, wastewater treatment, and drainage to more than1,600 buildings, totaling over 12 million gross square feet of campus space. Utilities has 75+ FTE and is responsible for $40+ million budget.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $42.42/hr. - $50.71/hr.
• Salary Frequency: Bi-Weekly
• Salary Grade: STEPS
• UC Job Title: WATER AND WASTEWATER OPR
• UC Job Code: 008245
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Career
• Percentage of Time: 100%
• Shift (Work Schedule): M-F 8:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Location: Davis, CA
• Union Representation: K3-Skilled Trades
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

• High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
• UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
• Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
• Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
• WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
• On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
• Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
• Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Walking - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Sitting - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Twisting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours

Work Environment

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.

This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. This position is subject to completion of a Pre-Placement Medical Exam provided by Employee Health Services at no charge to the applicant. Work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. Specific hazards include but are not limited to: asbestos, PCB's radioactive materials, industrial and laboratory chemicals, fuels, solvents, infectious materials and wastes, biological hazards and other materials labeled hazardous. Requires use of respirator and protective clothing. Participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. Work a non-standard work schedule that includes nights, weekends, or alternative schedules. Supports critical campus functions operating 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. May be required to participate in an 'on call' program to facilitate timely return of staff to the campus as required to meet critical needs. The on call program requires employee to inform the University how they can be reached during non-working hours, to carry University provided radios, cell phones, pagers or other telecommunications equipment which would facilitate communication between the campus and employee during non-work hours, or to accept rotating on-call responsibility which could periodically restrict the off-campus movements of the employee. If the employee's non-working hour movements are restricted by the University, employees will be compensated for their 'On-Call' time according to the established on call rates. If actually called into work, the employee will be compensated according to the established campus policies. Employees may also be required to return after an assigned shift due to business necessity or emergencies. Compensation for 'Call-Back' will be in accordance with campus policies. Employee is personally responsible for following safety procedures and guidelines.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks