Maintenance Worker

Meet Hayden Jackson

Describe your job

Maintenance Workers are responsible for maintaining all of Dublin San Ramon Services District’s (DSRSD’s) facilities-- such as buildings, water storage tanks, and pump stations. Some of this work is done entirely in-house, but for some projects our role is managing outside contractors and sourcing materials. Maintaining these facilities means performing or supervising carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, custodial work, landscaping, roof and siding projects, graffiti removal, and more.

How did you get into the water/wastewater industry?

My dad is a carpenter and general contractor here in the Tri-Valley, so I started my career working for him. He taught me construction skills and a strong work ethic, which allowed me to also become a carpenter and contractor. Contracting work meant that I was exposed to other trades besides carpentry, which allowed me to pick up additional skills that are helpful in my current role.

Working for Dublin San Ramon Services District has been my first experience working in the water/wastewater industry and for a government agency. I was hired a little over a year ago as a Maintenance Worker I. Since then, I was promoted to Maintenance Worker II, and this month will be promoted to Mechanic I.

When I was working for myself, it took a lot of effort to secure clients. It required take-home work, visiting jobsites to give quotes, and then hoping I would be selected for the project. At DSRSD, my work is consistent, but the scope of work changes every day.

What do you like best about your job? What is the most rewarding aspect?

This is the most positive place that I have ever worked. Everyone is excited to be here and it’s nice to come to a place where everyone is in a great mood.

Even though I grew up down the street from the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant in Pleasanton, I never thought about water treatment. It is amazing how large this infrastructure is and the amount of work that goes into treating wastewater and ensuring clean water comes out of your faucet.

During my first week on the job, I was given a tour of the plant, and I had no idea so much of it is underground or that a waste product from the treatment process is regenerated into a renewable energy source. Over time, I learned that there is an immense amount of maintenance, facilities, and equipment that are necessary to provide our services.

I wish that I started working in this industry earlier because it allows you to take your career in a lot of different directions based on skills that you have or things that you are interested in. I’ve received a lot of training since I came to the District because there is so much to learn, but that’s one aspect of the job that I really enjoy.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Maintenance Workers are expected to have a lot of knowledge across different construction trades. This is very different from when I was working as a carpenter, because I was only responsible for one aspect of a construction project from start to finish. However, I learned early on that if you pay attention to the other trades on a jobsite, it will only benefit you in the long run.

What are your favorite hobbies?

In my free time I build custom furniture, camp, and ride mountain bikes and Harleys.