Construction Technician IV

Position:               Construction Technician IV

Department:        Infrastructure, Planning & Growth – Division of Public Works       

Location:               County-City Building & Various Project Sites throughout St. Joseph County 

Status:                  Full-Time                                                           

FLSA Status:          Non-Exempt

Description:

Construction Technician IV job responsibilities include providing oversight and document construction of Public Works projects under contract by the County Commissioners, oversee and document economic development projects, assist in plan review, enforce standards and specifications that are prescribed for aforementioned work, and report to and confer with supervisor so that corrective measures can be determined when work is not in compliance.

Essential Functions:

• Inspect assigned Public Works projects, asphalt and concrete paving, bridge construction and drainage projects.
• Inspect contractor’s work for conformance with project specifications, construction plans and special provisions.
• Obtain accurate and complete field data, collect material tickets, and measure, calculate and organize installed and accepted quantities for payment.
• Maintain communications with County Construction Supervisor and Project Manager to coordinate job schedule, changes and any construction issues that arise.
• Communicate with contractor Project Manager to ensure all work complies with specifications, special provisions and schedules.
• Record daily field reports and observations utilizing an iPad and the County’s inspection documentation program.
• Attend and occasionally lead preconstruction and progress meetings.
• Assist in preparing construction drawings and prevailing specifications.
• Assist in writing contract documents involving roads, bridges, culverts, among other types.
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor and/or County Engineer

Other Responsibilities:

• Analyze existing roads, bridges and culverts and perform topographical surveys measuring various project features while compiling field notes and sketch information.
• Perform on-site surveys of construction projects employing various types of survey equipment to establish, verify, stake and identify lines and grades.
• Receive and respond to complaints from the public and other County Departments regarding projects, road conditions, drainage concerns and construction.
• Test and/or supervise testing of materials used on construction projects.
• Occasionally respond to emergencies on a 24-hour basis.
• Assist in the preparation of communication updates for the County Board of Commissioners and Council
• Maintain current knowledge of engineering standards and practices, and applicable State and County codes through continuing education and frequent legal updates, manuals and periodicals.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED with specialized knowledge of engineering principles and practices developed on the job after a minimum of 5 years’ experience in related field.
• Working knowledge of County and State regulations, civil engineering and land surveying principles and practice. Ability to comprehend data in plans, maps and specifications and regulatory code and ordinances.
• Knowledge and the use of computers: GIS, File Management, Word Processing, Spreadsheet and database skills preferred.
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.
• Ability to visit and safely traverse construction and project sites and comply with all applicable safety codes and requirements.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment to make field decisions regarding construction procedures, quality of materials, acceptance or rejection of the work, etc.
• Ability to work as part of a team and effectively communicate orally and in writing with staff members, construction personnel, industry professionals, community organizations, utility personnel, homebuilders, developers, and the public.
• Ability to effectively manage the workday, multiple projects, budgets, deadlines, and be attuned to the importance of the attention to detail.
• Able to operate a motor vehicle and possess a valid Driver’s License
• Able to comply with County and Department policies and work rules.
• Knowledge of ASTM testing procedures for concrete, soil, and asphalt.
• Able to work alone with minimum supervision and on several tasks at a time.
• Able to competently serve the public with diplomacy and respect, including occasional encounters with irate/hostile persons.

Physical Demands:

The majority of the work is carried out at various construction locations in the county and on uneven terrain, sometimes in inclement weather and varying temperatures.  Physical demands consist of standing, walking, bending, crouching, lifting objects up to 50 lbs. including, but not limited to surveying equipment, construction material testing equipment, construction material test samples (soil, asphalt, and concrete), etc. The position at times will also require working at a computer and the operation of typical office equipment.