Class Code:  04320

 

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES –

HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE

 

CONSTRUCTION TECHNICIAN

 

DEFINITION

Performs technical engineering support and construction trades related work including responsibility for inspection of small to moderately complex construction projects or construction survey projects as defined in the classification guidelines; serves as a leadworker and provides guidance to other staff designated to assist with construction inspection; performs related work as required.

 

The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.

 

WORK EXAMPLES

Assists supervisor by performing such duties as instructing employees, answering questions, distributing and balancing the workload and checking work; may make suggestions on selections, promotions, and reassignments; directs the operations of the crew in the absence of the supervisor.

Inspects small to moderately complex construction projects such as grading and paving, bridge culverts, erosion control, fencing, guardrail, and/or weatherization projects for compliance which includes reviewing field construction reports and material certifications, verifying quantities and materials, ensuring compliance with specifications and the use of certified materials, and preparing authorizations for vouchers and progress reports.

Documents construction progress and activities in computerized record keeping programs by maintaining detailed project records and preparing periodic reports on project progress and expenditures including item progress, materials used, and test results; performs technical duties in a resident construction office such as compiling and analyzing project reports and assisting the resident construction engineer.

Monitors ready mix and Portland cement concrete paving plants to verify material testing and check record keeping progress and plant compliance; performs a variety of standard tests to ensure quality control such air and slump tests on concrete and density and thickness on asphalt; records test results.

Reviews traffic control set-ups on highway construction projects in low traffic areas (i.e., rural rather than urban) for safety and compliance.

Updates as-built plans to reflect any changes or alterations to the Department of Transportation plans by going through diaries, computer records, item progress and other documentation to update plans.

Assists with surveying of highway construction projects including survey work for bridges and asphalt work.

Answers questions and provides explanations to the public regarding duration and progress of projects which includes checking contracts between state and property owners regarding access, drive locations, right of way locations, etc.

Designated positions perform duties related to snow and ice removal, which include: operating the Roadway Weather Information System (RWIS), the Data Transmission Network (DTN), and related computer and software applications to record and receive data and make decisions regarding times, temperatures, weather conditions, and material usage to operate snow and ice removal equipment such as single or tandem axle dump trucks that may be equipped with tailgate or hopper spreader, straight blades or V-plows, wing plows, and underside ice blades; includes preparing and spreading abrasives and de-icing chemicals on the roadway by using a loader for mixing abrasives and chemicals.

 

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Knowledge of all phases of construction inspection, plant inspection, engineering survey, and project monitoring related to civil engineering or architectural/facility repair or modification.

Knowledge of basic mathematic principles, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

Knowledge of standards, specifications, and special provisions of the employing agency.

Knowledge of elementary physical, mechanical and earth science principles.

Knowledge of various types of engineering survey equipment.

Knowledge of basic engineering drawing and drafting techniques.

Knowledge of methods and techniques used in the construction and building trades fields.

Designated positions will require the:

Ability to work out-of-doors in all types of weather conditions.

Ability to lift and load items weighing up to 95 pounds to the height of 55 inches above ground.

Knowledge of effects of weather on road surfaces.

Knowledge of the anti-icing and de-icing principles.

Ability to drive trucks and other vehicles in a safe and conscientious manner.

Ability to appropriately use anti-icing or de-icing materials.

Skill in the use of the Roadway Weather Information System (RWIS) and the Data Transmission Network (DTN).

Ability to read and write English.

Ability to understand and follow verbal and written directions/instructions given in English.

Ability to accurately perform mathematic calculations.

Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public and contractors.

Ability to work out of doors in all weather conditions.

Ability to record project notes accurately.

Ability to operate personal computers and use applicable programs related to highway construction.

Ability to train other staff.

Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and blueprints.

Ability to communicate ideas and observations both orally and in writing.

Skill in the operation of hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment related to civil engineering, engineering survey, or the building trades.

Displays high standards of ethical conduct.  Exhibits honesty and integrity.  Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.

Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner.  Committed to quality service.

Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Works with minimal supervision.  Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Responds appropriately to supervision.  Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.

Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.

Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity. Fosters commitment and team spirit.

Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Listens to others and responds appropriately.

 

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from high school, or G.E.D., and experience equal to three years of full-time work in engineering survey, construction inspection, materials inspection, materials testing, or the building construction trades;

OR

qualifying experience may be substituted on a year for year basis for the required education;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to eighteen months of full-time work as a Construction Technician, Assistant.

 

NOTE:

Designated positions may require certification for testing materials and operating specialized equipment as required by the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Technical Training and Certification Program for Highway Materials and Construction.

 

NOTE:

At the time of the applicant education and experience check, applicants referred to the Department of Public Defense, Office of Disaster Services will be assessed to determine if they meet federal government employment requirements as stated in the Facilities Surveys FY1985 Comprehensive Cooperative Agreement Program Guidelines, Section II, Item B, subsection 1.b.

 

NOTE:

Travel may be required for designated positions in this class.  Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas.

 

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

As of September 10, 2004, all designated positions within the Department of Transportation require a valid Commercial Driver’s License Instruction Permit upon hire.  Within 14 calendar days following appointment, a valid Class A or B Commercial Drivers License must be obtained, with air brake and other required endorsements, in order to continue employment.

 

NOTE:

All of the following apply to Department of Transportation positions only:

In conjunction with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (parts 391 & 40), designated positions in this job class require a pre-employment drug screen and will require ongoing participation in the employer’s random drug and alcohol testing program.

After accepting an offer of employment, employees in designated positions are required to have a physical examination by a doctor of choice verifying the physical ability to perform the duties described.

Employees in designated positions must be available to travel and may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.

 

Effective Date:        04/06     DK