Job Description

Utility Service Specialist Apprentice

Colorado Springs Utilities has operated as a municipal four-service utility since 1924, proudly providing electricity, natural gas, water, and wastewater to our citizen-owners. We are proud to offer apprenticeships in the fast-paced, dynamic, utility industry and are currently hiring a few individuals who have the desire and self-motivation to join our team as a Utility Service Specialist Apprentice.

In this 18-month apprenticeship program, we will teach you to become a skilled Utility Services Specialist through a combination of both classroom and on-the-job training. You will become skilled in performing activities such as the installation, maintenance, and upgrades of meters for electric, natural gas, and water utility services.

Starting pay as a USS Apprentice is $ 37.49/hr. As an apprentice, you will receive a pay increase each step you advance in the apprenticeship program. The current turnout/journey pay rate as a Utility Service Specialist is $44.11/hr.

During the apprenticeship program, you will gain a working knowledge of:

• Installing, disconnecting, troubleshooting, and maintaining electric, natural gas, and water utility service end-points (meters, modules, and regulators)
• Troubleshooting and resolving electric, gas, and water service endpoint issues
• Responding to gas, carbon monoxide, water, and wastewater-related emergencies
• Investigating and troubleshooting advanced meter infrastructure (AMI) network and component issues
• Inspecting and troubleshooting gas appliances for safety compliance
• Investigating and troubleshooting water pressure/volume / and water quality issues
• Conducting credit activities in support of the severance process
• Investigating customer consumption/usage inquiries and issues
• Investigating utility diversions
• Communicating clearly and accurately with customers, professionally representing the company and providing exceptional customer service
• Utilizing radios, mobile workforce management applications, customer information systems, and other telecommunications tools and applications in the performance of aily duties
• Accurate order documentation and data entry
• Adherence to all safety policies and procedures
• Operate and maintain a company utility vehicle

What does the successful candidate look like?
Qualified candidates typically have previous experience in HVAC, plumbing, pipefitting, electrical, or related skilled craft or trade. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about investing in their careers and therefore willing to devote the time and energy required to obtain the certifications listed below in the time frames outlined. This is an exceptional paid on-the-job training opportunity that requires one to be self-directed, motivated, and committed to their goals. Additionally, you must be knowledgeable and comfortable using computers to be successful in this role.

Licensing and Certification Information:

• A valid, non-probationary Colorado Driver’s License not subject to restrictions related to alcohol and/or drug violations or pending charges is required
• Self-Contained Electric Metering Certification (obtain within 6 months of hire)
• Water Metering Certification (obtain within 6 months of hire)
• Gas Operator Qualifications (obtain within 9 months of hire)
• Mechanic IV License (obtain within 9 months of hire)

Additional requirements and considerations:

• This position is designated as a first responder for emergencies. You will need to be available to work overtime when needed and subject to after-hours callouts.
• You will be expected to follow safety rules and company standards. You may work in confined spaces, in elevated work areas, and work in various types of weather.
• You will be expected to perform and learn the skills outlined and obtain the certifications listed above during the eighteen (18) month apprenticeship program.
• As a USS Apprentice, you are not eligible to apply for other positions within Colorado Springs Utilities until after you have completed your apprenticeship program.

For veterans interested in this opportunity, some relevant military training that may apply can be found in the following, but not limited to, military occupations:

• EM Electrician’s Mate
• GSM-Gas Turbine System Technician Mechanical
• Machinist’s Mate
• 12K Plumber
• Aviation’s Machinist
• Aviation Support Equipment Technician
• Machinery Repairman
• UT - Utilities man
• ASI-S3-Electrical Specialist
• 1141 Electrician
• GSM-Gas
• Maintenance Technician
• Combat / Civil Engineer

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Exerts 50-100 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or 25-50 lbs. of force frequently, and/or 10-20 lbs. of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
• Positions in this class typically require climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, workspace restrictions and intense noises.

Our Commitment to Our Employees…
Our people are the heart and soul of Colorado Springs Utilities. They keep the lights on, gas flowing, water coming in, and wastewater leaving. We don't just say people are important – we prove it! That’s why we are honored to invest in protecting the health and financial security of our employees and their families through our rich benefits program.

Time Off to Recharge

• Vacation – Start with 13 days annually, increasing to 24 days with tenure
• Personal Leave –3 days per year
• Paid Holidays –12 paid holidays per year
• Sick Leave – 12 days per year for personal or family health needs
• Vacation Buy – Option to purchase up to 40 additional hours annually

Health & Wellness – Benefits elected are effective the first of the following month

• Medical Plans: Three comprehensive options, including a $0 premium High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with Health Savings Account (HSA) eligibility
• Zero Health: Access to hundreds of medical services at no cost
• Dental & Vision: Two dental plans and one vision plan
• Family Building-Benefits: Support for fertility, preservation, adoption, and surrogacy
• Wellness Program: A voluntary program that rewards you for prioritizing self-care! If you're enrolled in a our medical plan, you and your spouse can earn up to $600 in HRA or HSA contributions by completing healthy activities
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Pre-tax contributions for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Available with HDHP

Financial & Retirement Security

• Pension Plan: Colorado PERA provides retirement benefits and peace of mind
• Supplemental Retirement Plans: PERAPlus 401(k), MissionSquare Roth IRA, and 457 plans
• Disability Coverage: Short-Term and Long-Term Disability insurance available
• Life Insurance: Employer-paid coverage with optional supplemental plans

Additional Support

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for mental health, stress, legal, financial, and work-life balance
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,250 annually to support continued education
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: As a qualifying employer, your student loan payments may be eligible for loan forgiveness