This is specialized office and field work in the investigation and assessment of damages to facilities owned and operated by the county water and sewer utility.

An employee in this class is responsible for inspecting, documenting and determining liability for damages to water and sewer property. Responsibilities include conducting investigations of construction and work sites, gathering information from witnesses and potentially liable suspects, determining the validity of evidential information, and making recommendations concerning the liability of various parties. The incumbent exercises independent judgment in the application of departmental policies and determination of liability for property damage. Supervision is received from an administrative superior who reviews work for attainment of desired objectives.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Conducts inspections of construction and work sites to identify damage to water and sewer properties; determines causes of property damage; makes recommendations concerning liability of parties such as developers, contractors and property owners.

Conducts field investigations and gathers information from witnesses and potentially liable parties; takes signed and sworn statements; takes photographs and measurements at sites where property damage has occurred.

Determines validity of information gathered from witnesses, developers, contractors, businesses and property owners; makes recommendations concerning discrepancies and peculiarities.

Attends administrative hearings for parties who deny liability for property damage; prepares court documents, attends court proceedings and testifies as an expert witness.

Prepares reports and correspondence of investigative findings and results.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Considerable knowledge of practices and techniques used in the investigation and documentation of property damages.

Considerable knowledge of the rules of evidence as they relate to the preparation of court cases.

Considerable knowledge of departmental rules, regulations and policies related to the investigation and assessment of property damages.

Knowledge of the geography of water and sewer utility facilities.

Knowledge of public relations principles and practices.

Knowledge of general office practices and procedures.

Ability to inspect property damage sites and gather evidential information.

Ability to obtain information through interview and investigative methods.

Ability to analyze information and make recommendations concerning liability for property damage.

Ability to explain departmental rules, regulations and policies to contractors, developers and property owners in a courteous and tactful manner.

Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in interpreting and applying departmental policies and procedures.

Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.

NEW 10-87