Gas Service Technician

Job Description

Gas Service Technician | City of Charlottesville

The Tone:
This is a full-time, non-exempt position at the City of Charlottesville, assigned to the Department of Utilities. The Department of Utilities is responsible for maintaining critical natural gas infrastructure and services for the community. This role is essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of natural gas to residents and businesses, directly impacting public safety and customer satisfaction through skilled installation, maintenance, and emergency response.

The TL;DR
• Role: Full Time
• Type: Full-time
• Location: Charlottesville, VA (In-person)
• Pay: $25.06–$29.55 hourly
• Team: Department of Utilities, reports to Gas Service Supervisor
• Mission: Ensure the safe and reliable operation of natural gas services by installing, maintaining, and responding to emergencies related to gas meters, regulators, and distribution infrastructure.
• Tech Stack: Detecto Pack Infrared (DPIR), Odorator 2 handheld meter reading device

What You’ll Actually Do
• Install and Maintain Gas Systems: Install, relocate, adjust, and repair domestic and commercial natural gas meters and regulators, following federal, state, and local procedures.
• Respond to Emergencies: Respond to natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks, determine severity, manage evacuations, and address abnormal operating conditions.
• Provide Customer Service: Interact directly with residents and businesses to investigate natural gas concerns, restore/disconnect gas service, and document initial readings for new accounts.
• Ensure System Accuracy: Perform meter proving and calibration services to ensure accurate gas flow measurement, identify discrepancies, and maintain proper documentation.
• Operate and Maintain Equipment: Calibrate and maintain specialized natural gas leak detection equipment and operate a city vehicle, keeping it stocked and prepared for service calls.

The Must-Haves
• Background: High school diploma or GED; requires core knowledge in pipefitting, gas distribution, or general construction work. Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Driver’s License, an acceptable driving record, and Operator Qualification (OQ) testing as required by PHMSA.
• Experience: At least 1 year of experience in pipefitting and gas distribution or general construction work, OR 3 or more years of experience in pipefitting and gas distribution or general construction work.
• Skills: Thorough knowledge of safe methods and practices for working with gas lines, meters, and regulators; skilled in gas pipefitting and using specialized tools and equipment; ability to detect and respond to natural gas and carbon monoxide leaks; strong customer service and communication skills; ability to assess gas infrastructure conditions and determine corrective actions.