How to Be Public Utility Worker - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 12, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The job of a public utility worker is essential to the success of a community. These workers have the responsibility of maintaining the infrastructure that is needed to provide vital services to citizens. Through their work, they are able to ensure that citizens have access to electricity, potable water, and reliable communication networks.

Without these workers, these services would not be available to the public, causing an unimaginable amount of disruption for businesses and citizens alike. In addition, public utility workers must take into account the safety of the public when dealing with hazardous materials, as well as the risk of power outages and water shortages. Their work is constantly being monitored to prevent any potential disasters from occurring.

As a result of their tireless efforts, communities can remain safe and prosperous.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most public utility worker positions require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED.
Obtain Technical Training. Some positions, such as those in the electric, water and wastewater, and gas industries, require applicants to complete technical training courses.
Pursue an Associate's Degree. Some public utility companies require applicants to have an associate's degree in engineering or a related field.
Complete On-the-Job Training. Public utility companies often require new employees to complete on-the-job training before they can work independently.
Obtain a Professional License. Depending on the position, some public utility workers may need to obtain a professional license from their state or local government.
Participate in Professional Development. Public utility companies may require workers to participate in professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on industry trends.

As a public utility worker, staying ahead and capable requires dedication and commitment. It is important to develop a strong knowledge base in the field of public utility operations, including the latest technologies, techniques, and trends. staying up to date on any new regulations or changes to existing laws is also essential for success.

Furthermore, having an understanding of the importance of customer service and customer experience can help to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. Finally, by taking initiative and constantly working to improve processes and procedures, public utility workers can stay ahead and remain capable in their field. Doing so will ensure that they remain successful in providing quality services to the public.

You may want to check Public Safety Dispatcher, Public Health Analyst, and Public Relations Assistant for alternative.

Job Description

Power Plant Operator: Operates, monitors, and controls power generating equipment to produce electricity in thermal, hydroelectric, and nuclear power plants.
Lineman: Installs, repairs, and maintains overhead and underground electrical power and communication lines.
Meter Reader: Visits residential and commercial properties to read and record utility meter readings.
Power Plant Technician: Maintains, troubleshoots, repairs, and tests electrical and mechanical equipment in power plants.
Water Treatment Plant Operator: Operates and maintains water treatment systems to ensure safe drinking water is being supplied to consumers.
Gas Pipefitter: Installs and repairs gas lines, gas meters, gas regulators, and other natural gas distribution equipment.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator: Operates, maintains, and repairs wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe wastewater is being treated properly.
Substation Technician: Maintains, repairs, and tests electrical equipment in electric substations.
Customer Service Representative: Provides customer service support by answering customer inquiries and resolving customer complaints in a timely and professional manner.
Natural Gas Technician: Installs, repairs, and maintains natural gas distribution systems to ensure safe delivery of natural gas to consumers.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations.
Ability to read and understand technical manuals and specifications.
Ability to troubleshoot and repair complex systems.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of electrical wiring and circuitry.
Knowledge of plumbing systems.
Knowledge of HVAC systems.
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Ability to lift and maneuver heavy equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively with customers, colleagues, and supervisors.
Ability to work in confined spaces and at heights.
Flexibility to adjust to changing schedules and work assignments.

A successful utility worker must have a variety of skills in order to effectively perform their job. One of the most important skills is communication. Utility workers must be able to effectively communicate with customers and other workers to ensure efficient service.

Good problem-solving skills are also essential for a utility worker as they need to be able to quickly identify and address any issues that arise. utility workers must be well-versed in safety regulation and protocols, as the job often requires working in hazardous conditions. Time management is another important skill, since utility workers must be able to prioritize tasks and complete them on time.

Lastly, technical knowledge of the equipment is necessary to ensure proper operation. With these skills, a utility worker will be able to effectively provide utility services and meet customer demands.

Public Policy Analyst, Public Health Epidemiologist, and Public Defender Investigator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in public utility services?
How would you handle a customer complaint regarding a public utility issue?
What steps would you take to ensure customer service when dealing with public utility issues?
What safety protocols do you follow when handling public utility services?
How do you prioritize tasks related to public utility services?
How do you stay up to date on industry regulations related to public utility services?
Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a public utility issue.
What strategies do you use to ensure that customer service issues are addressed promptly and effectively?
How have you successfully handled difficult customer inquiries related to public utility services?
What do you enjoy most about working in public utility services?

Common Tools in Industry

Hand Tools. Used to perform general maintenance tasks, such as tightening bolts and screws (e. g. screwdriver, pliers).
Power Tools. Used to cut, drill, or sand materials (e. g. saw, drill).
Testing Equipment. Used to measure and analyze electrical systems (e. g. multimeter, ammeter).
Safety Gear. Used to protect against on-the-job hazards (e. g. hard hat, steel-toed boots).
Heavy Equipment. Used for moving and lifting large objects (e. g. forklift, crane).
Communication Devices. Used to communicate with other utility workers and dispatch centers (e. g. two-way radio, cell phone).
Ladders. Used to access hard-to-reach areas (e. g. extension ladder).
Generators. Used to provide temporary power during outages (e. g. portable generator).
Welding Equipment. Used to join metal pieces together (e. g. welding torch, welders gloves).
Digging Tools. Used to dig trenches or holes in the ground (e. g. shovel, pickaxe).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Public Power Association
National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
American Water Works Association
American Gas Association
National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners
Energy Information Administration
National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors
National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative
Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies
National Association of Water Companies

We also have Public Works Maintenance Worker, Public Health Program Manager, and Public Affairs Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Power Plant Operator. Operates, maintains, and repairs power plant equipment to produce electricity.
Electrical Lineworker. Installs, repairs, and maintains overhead and underground power lines and associated equipment.
Water Treatment Plant Operator. Operates, maintains, and repairs water treatment plant equipment to purify drinking water.
Gas Technician. Installs, repairs, and maintains gas lines and gas-related equipment.
Meter Reader. Reads, records, and maintains data from metering devices in order to calculate customer energy usage.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. Operates, maintains, and repairs wastewater treatment plant equipment to purify wastewater for reuse or disposal.
Telecommunications Technician. Installs, repairs, and maintain telecommunications equipment and systems.
Electrician. Installs, repairs, and maintains electrical wiring and systems.
Plumber. Installs, repairs, and maintains plumbing fixtures and systems.
Cable Technician. Installs, repairs, and maintains cable television systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Public Utility Worker?

A Public Utility Worker is an individual who works in the public utility sector, providing services such as water and wastewater treatment, electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications.

What qualifications are needed to become a Public Utility Worker?

To become a Public Utility Worker, one must typically have a high school diploma or GED and complete on-the-job training. Depending on the position, additional certifications or college degrees may be required.

What are the duties of a Public Utility Worker?

The duties of a Public Utility Worker primarily involve maintaining and repairing public utility systems, such as water and wastewater treatment plants, power plants, gas pipelines, and telecommunications equipment. Other duties may include inspecting facilities, monitoring systems, and responding to customer inquiries.

What is the average salary of a Public Utility Worker?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for public utility workers was $62,820 in 2019.

Where do Public Utility Workers work?

Public Utility Workers typically work in public utility facilities located throughout the country. They may also be dispatched to customer sites to install, inspect, or repair public utility systems.

Web Resources

public utility | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute www.law.cornell.edu
Public Utilities Engineer - Electric Power Division www.maritime.edu
UTILITY WORKER* - careers.duke.edu careers.duke.edu