Water Service Technician - Zeeland Board of Public Works

The Zeeland Board of Public Works is seeking a knowledgeable and dedicated Water Service Technician to operate and maintain the water distribution system to provide safe drinking water to the City of Zeeland residents and other system customers.

The City of Zeeland boasts a thriving local economy, supported by a mix of innovative manufacturing, agriculture, and family-owned businesses. Zeeland is also celebrated for its well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods—making it an ideal place to raise a family. With its walkable downtown filled with quaint shops, cafes, and community events, the city radiates friendliness and civic pride. Just minutes from the beaches of Lake Michigan and the amenities of nearby Holland, Zeeland offers residents and visitors a perfect blend of tradition, opportunity, and quality of life.

As a Water Service Technician, some of your essential duties and responsibilities may include:

• Operate and maintain all pumps and equipment pertaining to the water system, including disassembly and repair of pumps, valves, compressors and other machinery and equipment.  May inspect, repair, maintain and/or lubricate functional parts of the mechanical or electrical equipment such as pumps, blowers, collectors, chemical feeders, chlorinators, switches and other equipment and machinery.


• Maintain records of all maintenance and repairs including dates of repair or maintenance, materials, used and corrective action necessary.


• Perform water main and service line taps required for all new and existing customers.


• Supervise the work of contractors during excavation and carry out functions related to confined space and other safety issues.


• Locate and stake all water main and service lines for identification purposes and the Miss Dig system.


• Install, read, and repair water meters in residential, commercial and industrial settings.


• Develop, implement and maintain all cross-connection control program functions in accordance with state and local regulations.


• Take all regular state required water samples and submit samples to a testing lab for analysis.


• Maintain all state required monthly records. Provide records to Water Utility Operations Manager.


• Operate and maintain all fire hydrants within the service area.


• Aid in the design and re-design of new and existing water main projects.


• Assume on-call responsibilities as required.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

Our ideal Water Service Technician has the following job knowledge, skills and abilities:

• High school diploma or equivalent.


• Five years’ experience in water distribution system operations and maintenance activities.


• Possess current Michigan Drinking Water Operator S-2 certification or able to obtain within 6 months of hire.


• Valid State of Michigan driver’s license.


• Considerable knowledge of water distribution system operating procedures and maintenance needs.


• Good knowledge of methods, tools and materials required for testing, installing and repairing water meters, mains, services lines, and related equipment.


• Skill in performing water quality tests and preserving the safety of the drinking water supply.


• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and equipment problems.


• Ability to read and understand mechanical drawings and blueprints.


• Ability to use computer to complete records and maintain files pertaining to water system.


• Ability to establish effective working relationships and use good judgment, initiative and resourcefulness when dealing with the public, other employees, contracted service providers, and City officials.


• Ability to effectively communicate and present ideas and concepts orally and in writing.


• Ability to work effectively under stress, changes in work priorities, and when emergencies arise 24/7.


• Ability to manage outside contractors and organize the work environment on a daily basis.

Wage Scale: 

Starting $31.26*

6 Months $32.84

1st Year $34.28

2nd Year $37.36

3rd Year $40.38

*If the new hire does not possess a Michigan Drinking Water Operator S-2 certification at hire, starting wage may be impacted.

Consider applying today to be part of a team that values innovation, sustainability, and public health. To learn more about us, visit https://zeelandbpw.com/.