Job Abstract

WGL - Helper Mechanic

Washington Gas is thrilled to announce our next Helper Mechanic class, projected to begin in early September 2024. Working under the direction of a Crew Lead, Helper Mechanics assist with maintaining and providing safe and reliable gas transportation, supporting the crew by performing manual excavation, and operating pneumatic tools and other equipment for maintaining gas facilities. Helper Mechanics must safely operate company vehicles.

This position requires the ability to work a shift rotation to support our 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week operations. Following training, the job location may be assigned at any station within the Washington Gas service territory (VA, MD, and/or DC).

What You'll Do:

Assist with Emergency and High-Priority Situations

• Assist the lead person and other senior employees in maintaining equipment in working order.

• Retrieve the necessary tools and equipment to perform repairs.

Standard Job Assignment Responsibilities

• Adhere to Washington Gas Engineering & Operating standards and all other company policies and procedures.

• Adhere to Federal, State, and Local Codes.

• Complete or verify all documents associated with the job.

• Ensure that work is completed within a given timeframe.

• Ensure personal and job site safety.

• Install and remove protective barriers (i.e., shoring material).

• Follow company standards regarding proper excavation practices.

• Load and unload required material.

• Work in confined spaces.

• Wear a respirator while working in a gaseous atmosphere or confined space.

Operate Power Tools

• Use breakers, rammer, clay spade, drills, cutters, saws, etc.

Excavate Company Facilities

• Use hand excavating tools.

• Follow proper procedures when excavating near or around other utilities.

Assist in Maintaining Company Vehicles

• Assist in leak investigations, grading, detection, and surveys.

• Assist in valve inspections and drip monitoring.

• Assist in tightening, adjusting, and repairing basic/minor leakage.

Interpret Company Records

• Read and interpret company records, including quad maps and map books.

Communicate Effectively

• Communicate effectively with customers and co-workers, both electronically and in person.

• Represent Washington Gas professionally when communicating with customers.

Stock and Equip Company Vehicles

• Order materials needed for daily activities.

• Secure and store materials safely.

• Dispose of excess debris properly.

• Keep vehicles clean and orderly.

• Follow guidelines for returning damaged material.

Maintain Tools and Equipment

• Assist with inspecting, testing, and documenting findings for CGI, fire extinguisher, PPE, etc.

Additional Responsibilities

• May be assigned to related business support and administrative activities (e.g., storeroom cycle counts and audits, peer safety observations, vehicle clean-out, and cross-functional training activities).

What You Must Have:

• High School diploma or GED equivalent required.

• Minimum of 6 months of experience in auto repair, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, welding, carpentry, landscaping, or other construction fields that include using hand tools.

• 2 years of Military experience accepted in place of 6 months of experience.

• Graduation from Washington Gas training partner program accepted in place of 6 months of experience.

• Must pass the ACT WorkKeys Test before an offer of employment.

• Basic computer skills required.

• Demonstrate excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.

• New hires at this level must complete all assigned training modules, qualifying exams, and field clearances, including Flagging and Plastic Pipe Joint (PPJ mechanical) certifications, gas odor recognition testing, and must complete respirator qualifications, including all hygiene requirements needed to wear a tight-fitting respirator.

Licenses/Certifications

• A valid Driver’s License is required. Must meet Company driving standards.

• Must acquire a Federal Motor Carrier (FMC) medical card within 6 months from the date hired into the position.

• CDL holders are subject to testing under Federal Highway Regulations.

Shift Work: Required

Washington Gas is proud to value diversity in its workforce and encourages United States military veterans and service members who meet the qualifications to apply.