Pump and Motor Technician chez City of Buda (TX), TX

About the Department

The Pump & Motor Maintenance Technician is responsible for daily and emergency preventive maintenance and repair of City pumping and rotating equipment, related controls, and standby generators across water and wastewater facilities. The role requires strong troubleshooting of electrical systems, motor diagnostics, and general mechanical maintenance; sound judgment during critical events; and effective communication with City staff. This position participates in the on-call rotation and must reside within 45 minutes of the Buda Public Works facility to support emergency response. This is an essential, safety-sensitive position that may be required to work during emergency events.

Position Duties

• Troubleshoot and correct electrical, mechanical, and piping issues within scope of training/experience and supervisor direction.
• Inspect pumps and related equipment to diagnose malfunctions (e.g., shaft misalignment, seal/packing failures, worn bearings, belt slippage, lubrication issues).
• Repair and replace mechanical/electrical components (e.g., pumps, motors, submersibles, relays, breakers) including disassembly, cleaning, replacing impellers, repacking/setting mechanical seals, tightening packing glands, and replacing bearings using appropriate tools.
• Test, troubleshoot, calibrate, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on electrical/electronic systems and devices (e.g., motor controllers, transmitters, level instruments) using standard procedures and test equipment; correct instrumentation defects.
• Assist with installation of utility system improvements and other water/wastewater projects.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, work orders, and related forms; ensure documentation is current and complete.
• Collaborate with supervisor to implement and improve preventive maintenance policies and schedules.
• Monitor inventory; recommend/specify parts and materials; requisition approved supplies and equipment.
• Safely operate a City vehicle; maintain vehicle cleanliness, organization, and tool inventory.
• Operate and coordinate use of equipment as assigned (e.g., boom/dump/flatbed trucks, cranes) in support of maintenance tasks.
• Perform on-call duties and respond 24/7 to facility/equipment failures, including night and severe-weather events.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required PPE; promptly report hazards, equipment problems, and emergencies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in operation and/or maintenance of water/wastewater utility systems.

• Valid Texas driver’s license required; CDL Class A or B preferred.
• Preferred: Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation license (Master, Journeyman, or Maintenance Electrician).
• Preferred: TCEQ Class C (or higher) Water or Wastewater Operator License and/or TCEQ Class II (or higher) Wastewater Collection License.

Other Qualifications

• Knowledge of chemicals, technical equipment, and applicable TCEQ/EPA guidelines and regulations.
• Ability to read/understand electrical schematics; diagnose electrical and motor issues; and apply safe lockout/tagout practices.
• Skill in locating utilities from maps; repairing/maintaining water and wastewater lines, valves, and pumps safely.
• Proficiency with computers for data entry and basic software (CMMS/work orders, email, spreadsheets).
• Effective verbal and written communication; ability to follow detailed instructions and prepare clear documentation.
• Strong prioritization and time management to meet deadlines and respond to emergencies.
• Courteous, professional interaction with employees and the public; sound judgment under stress.
• Reliable, predictable attendance and availability for shift work, on-call, and emergency response.