Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Municipal Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a Municipal Technician, you are the on-the-ground expert ensuring the integrity and functionality of our city's essential infrastructure. You'll bridge the gap between engineering design and real-world construction, performing vital inspections, collecting critical data, and collaborating with engineers, contractors, and the public. This position is fundamental to the successful execution of public works projects—from new road construction and utility upgrades to park development and stormwater management. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are driven by public service, this is your opportunity to help shape and sustain our community for years to come.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Public Works Maintenance Worker
Construction Laborer / Inspector
Surveying Assistant

Advancement To:

Senior Municipal Technician / Lead Technician
Public Works Inspector / Senior Inspector
Assistant Civil Engineer
Construction Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

GIS Technician
Plans Examiner
Code Enforcement Officer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Conducts routine and complex field inspections of public works construction projects, including streets, sidewalks, curb and gutter, storm drains, and sanitary sewer systems, to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and municipal codes.
Reviews construction plans, subdivision plats, traffic control plans, and permit applications for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to local, state, and federal regulations.
Operates and maintains a variety of specialized equipment, such as sewer line video inspection cameras, GPS/GIS data collection units, and materials testing devices, to assess infrastructure condition.
Performs basic to intermediate land surveying tasks, including setting stakes and grades for construction projects, and collecting topographic and as-built data using total stations, levels, or GPS equipment.
Prepares and maintains detailed daily logs, inspection reports, project documentation, and photographic records, ensuring all activities are accurately chronicled for project closeout.
Utilizes computer-aided design (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) software to create, modify, and update municipal maps, utility atlases, and construction drawings.
Investigates and documents site conditions for proposed projects, identifying potential conflicts with existing utilities, property lines, and environmental constraints.
Collects and performs basic field testing on construction materials such as soil, concrete, and asphalt to verify compliance with project specifications.
Calculates quantities and costs for construction materials and project estimates, and assists in the review of contractor pay applications.
Manages utility-locate requests (e.g., Dig Safe, 811) by marking the location of municipal water, sewer, and storm drain lines for external contractors and utility companies.
Assists in the administration of various permits, including street opening, driveway, and grading permits, by reviewing applications and performing associated inspections.
Monitors and inspects erosion and sediment control measures at construction sites to ensure environmental compliance and prevent pollution of local waterways.
Assists project engineers with data collection, research, and the preparation of technical reports, specifications, and presentations.
Operates light to heavy equipment, including utility trucks, compactors, and loaders, for minor construction, repair, and maintenance tasks as needed.
Updates and maintains the asset management database with new and rehabilitated infrastructure data, including attributes like material, size, condition, and installation date.
Responds to service requests from the public regarding infrastructure issues, such as potholes, sidewalk defects, or drainage problems, and determines the appropriate course of action.
Prepares traffic control plans and oversees the setup and takedown of temporary traffic control devices in accordance with MUTCD standards for work zones.
Performs flow monitoring and smoke/dye testing in sanitary and storm sewer systems to identify sources of infiltration and inflow.
Assists in the preparation of as-built drawings and records upon project completion, ensuring final records accurately reflect the constructed facilities.
Provides technical support and guidance to contractors, developers, and the general public regarding municipal standards, procedures, and construction requirements.
Coordinates with other municipal departments, utility companies, and external agencies to ensure project activities are aligned and conflicts are minimized.

Secondary Functions

Assists in responding to public inquiries, concerns, and complaints regarding public works projects and services, providing timely and accurate information.
Participates in emergency response operations, such as snow and ice removal, flood control, or storm damage assessment, as directed.
Provides support for special community events by assisting with traffic control planning, barricade setup, and site logistics.
Maintains inventory of materials, tools, and equipment, and assists with procurement and maintenance scheduling.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in reading and interpreting civil engineering plans, construction blueprints, specifications, and technical diagrams.
Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, particularly Esri ArcGIS Pro/ArcMap, for data editing and analysis.
Competency with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, such as Autodesk AutoCAD or Civil 3D, for drafting and design review.
Knowledge of land surveying principles and operation of survey equipment, including GPS, total stations, and automatic levels.
Familiarity with public works construction methods, materials, and terminology for utilities, roads, and drainage systems.
Understanding of materials testing procedures for soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt.
Strong mathematical skills for calculating grades, volumes, areas, and material quantities.
Knowledge of relevant regulations, including MUTCD for traffic control, and local/state construction standards.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) for reporting, data tracking, and communication.
Valid State Driver's License, with the ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if required.
Experience with asset management software and work order systems.

Soft Skills

Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities to address unforeseen field conditions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with colleagues, contractors, and the public.
High level of attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in record-keeping and inspections.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and effectively manage time and priorities.
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills; ability to remain professional and courteous in challenging situations.
Teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively within a multi-disciplinary team.
Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, navigate construction sites, and lift moderately heavy objects.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent, supplemented by technical coursework or relevant certifications.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Civil Engineering Technology
Construction Management
Surveying Technology
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-5 years of progressively responsible experience in construction inspection, land surveying, public works maintenance, or a closely related field.

Preferred:

Prior experience working within a municipal or county public works/engineering department is highly desirable. Possession of relevant certifications (e.g., ACI Concrete Field Testing, Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector, Water Distribution/Wastewater Collection license) is a strong plus.