Journey and General Laborer Hourly

Job Description:

Journey and General Laborer Hourly

Description

Description

The Department
The City of Palo Alto is the only city-owned utility in California that operates its own utilities including electric, fiberoptic, natural gas, water and wastewater services and we have been providing quality services to the citizens and businesses of Palo Alto since 1896. The City is seeking multiple General Laborer - H and one Journey Level Laborer- H to work in the Water-Gas-Wastewater Operations department. The General Laborer - H positions will be assigned to the Cross-bore Project. The Journey Level Laborer - H position may be assigned to assist the Water, Sewer, or Gas Operations and Maintenance crews, Paving Restoration Crew, Meter Shop, or other operations as needed.

The Position
General Laborer Hourly: To ensure the safety of the City of Palo Alto's residents and utility infrastructure, Water-Gas-Wastewater Operations will be conducting an inspection of specific wastewater lateral, referred to as the Cross-bore Project. A "cross-bore" is when a pipe is installed by trenchless technology and inadvertently penetrates pre-existing pipe in its path. The goal of the Cross-bore Project is to camera specified wastewater laterals and ensure that no cross-bores exist. The Department is seeking 3 General Laborer Hourly positions to complete this project.

Journey Level Laborer Hourly: The Journey Level Laborer Hourly position will be tasked with assisting the Water-Gas-Wastewater Operations Department involving physical labor in or on buildings, construction sites, demolition sites, streets, sidewalks. or on other construction projects. The position will use independent judgment similar to that expected of a journey-level laborer and woks under general supervision. The Department is seeking 1 Journey Level Laborer Hourly position.

Schedule for both General and Journey Laborer Hourly: 9/80 schedule (with every other Friday off)

This is an SEIU Hourly (limited-benefits) position that is budgeted to not exceed 1,000 hours per fiscal year. The number of hours per week and schedule will be determined based on assignment.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications
General Laborer Hourly:

• Prior experience in utility locating, pipeline inspection, construction, or related field.
• Skilled in the use of hand tools.
• Ability to operate a push camera.
• Basic computer skills for data entry, reporting, and mapping.
• Ability to read and interpret utility maps, as-builts, and construction drawings.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs. and performing manual labor as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Safety-focused mindset.
• Ability to communicate professionally with the community.
• Good problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Professional communication and teamwork skills when coordinating with utility crews and supervisors.

Journey Level Laborer Hourly:

• Experience working with underground utilities, concrete, asphalt, pipe installation, or similar heavy labor tasks.
• Skilled in safe use of hand tools, power tools, and construction equipment (e.g., jackhammers, compactors, saws).
• Endurance to stand, bend, dig, and work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended periods.
• Capable of lifting 50 lbs. and performing manual labor as needed.
• Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic.
• Safety conscious and able to follow instructions with attention to detail.
• Team oriented but able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills with supervisors, crew members, and the public.
• Commitment to quality workmanship and continuous improvement.
• Possess a Class A or B Drivers License

Minimum Qualifications

General and Journey Level Laborer Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a High School Diploma or it's equivalent AND

• 1 year of related experience

Supplemental Information

Hourly Salary Ranges
Depending on the applicant's qualifications, the position will be filled at the appropriate level/salary of either General Laborer Hourly or Journey Level Laborer Hourly.
General Laborer Hourly: $34.31 - $47.18
Journey Level Laborer Hourly: $34.31 - $54.89

Recruitment Timeline (All dates subject to change):
Panel Interview: Week of October 13th
Final Interview: Week of October 20th

Our online application system is provided by NeoGov. If you have problems while applying online, please contact NeoGov's Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday.

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

City of Palo Alto offers the following benefits to those in a SEIU Hourly position:

Medical Stipend
$3.80 effective the pay period including July 1, 2024.

Sick Leave
Earn .03 hour of sick leave for each hour worked.

Retirement
City of Palo Alto PST (Part-time, Seasonal & Temporary Employees) Retirement Plan

Please note: The City does not participate in CA State Disability Insurance (SDI) or Social Security.

Closing Date/Time: 9/30/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$34.31 - $54.89 Hourly