Utility Worker II - Public Works, Bureau of Highways, Cooksville Shop

JOB Howard County:

Conveniently located in the heart of central Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County offers the charm of a historic past mixed with the excitement of a cosmopolitan community.

Howard County Government:

Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 83 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) - the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in the State of Maryland which received a collective 136 awards. NACo is the leading organization representing county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policymaking. What are we looking for? We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations. What you'll like most about working at

Howard County Government:

We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government. We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace. Your input will not only be heard, but it will be encouraged! We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs. As a member of the Howard County Government team, you'll be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

This is a semiskilled position that provides both manual labor and equipment operation support to accomplish the organization's objectives.

STARTING SALARY HIRING RANGE

$21.03 - $23.22 hourly $43,748 - $48,290 annually

CLASS DESCRIPTION

This is semiskilled manual work performing general laboring operations. Work includes performing assignments involving the use of a variety of tools. This class is differentiated from the Utility I level by the complexity of duties assigned and greater independence of action. Work is performed with general supervision from a crew leader or supervisor. Assignments are stable in nature and are carried out in accordance with instructions and established routines.

• This is a Classified position, meaning that it is a part of the Howard County Classified Service upon completion of a probationary period of at least six (6) months.
• Please note that this position falls within a collective bargaining unit and is represented by AFSCME Local 3085, Local 3888, or Local 1810.
• This position has been designated as "essential personnel," meaning an employee is expected to report for regular work shift during inclement weather, emergency situations, County holidays and on an on-call basis.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

Equipment Operation:

Operates a variety of equipment such as a spreader box, rollers, sweepers, hoses, cement mixers, forklifts, tractor with attachments, compactors and air hammers in highway maintenance work. Operates tailgate to regulate stone flow over tarred surfaces. Operations paint spray and highway striping equipment as needed. Operates snowplow and clears a determined snow emergency route. May operate a dump truck with attachments during emergencies.

Maintenance and Repair:

Performs preventative maintenance on some equipment by changing oil and oil filters; checking batter water, transmission brake and steering fluid levels; lubrication; charging batteries; cleaning engine parts; and changing tires and windshield wipers.

Grounds and Landscape Works:

Uses scythes, lawn mower and other equipment to cut grass and weeds; Uses chain-saw and other tools to remove tree limbs, trees, and debris.

Construction and Masonry Support:

Lays brick or drainage structures. Builds and installs basic forms and guides for grading and masonry operations. Performs concrete spreading. Reads blueprints and does stake outs. Traffic and Work Zone Safe ty: Set ups work zone traffic control. May interact directly with public at work sites or other locations.

Administrative and Operational Support:

Inputs computer data. This position is considered emergency essential and as such, the incumbent may be required to report for regular work shift during inclement weather, or when an emergency situation arises. Performs other related duties as assigned or required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.