Laborer I

Full Job Description

Performs unskilled and limited semi-skilled manual work in various departments.

Requirements

• Work performed varies with department to which assigned.
• Digs and backfills ditches and holes by hand; loads and unloads trucks; sets out barricades; and directs traffic at construction sites.
• Polices and cleans in and around assigned buildings. Assists in the clearing or maintenance of grounds and areas.
• Assists craft specialists and other trade workers in the construction, repair and maintenance of buildings, equipment and/or furnishings.
• When assigned to night shift, also watches assigned building or areas for any damage or danger of loss to property. Turns off electrical equipment, waters lawns, answers and records telephone messages.
• Sweeps streets, gutters and alleys by hand; loads trash or snow into trucks; spreads sand on icy streets; prepares grade, spreads stone chips, fills paving cracks, spreads paving mix, operates paint line removing machine, and otherwise assists in street maintenance.
• Cleans reservoirs, and assists in laying water mains, installing hydrants, cleaning valves, cutting pipe and other water service operations.
• Assists in maintenance and construction of sewer infrastructure, and TV inspection of sewers. Cleans storm water lines and catch basins. Pumps septic tanks and cesspools.
• Operates thread cutting machine to cut pipe, etc.
• May instruct seasonal employees in setting up risers and chairs, and cleaning facilities after events.
• Cleans and transports vehicles from one location to another. Replenishes supplies and equipment in vehicles.

Qualifications

Open Entry Requirements:
(Open-entry applicants must meet all requirements when they apply.)

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: One year of laboring experience.

License and Certifications:
(Qualified applicants and employees in this job class must meet these requirements.)

• Possession of a valid driver's license.

Additional Information

For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and pass the examination for this position to be eligible for hire. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

All applicants must complete and submit a City of Spokane employment application online by 4:00 p.m. on the filing cut-off date.

Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.

The examination will consist of a written test, with scoring weight assigned as follows:

• Multiple-Choice Examination: 100%

Two methods of testing will be offered. Candidates will choose which method is best for them and self-schedule accordingly based on availability. Self-schedule notifications will be sent to candidates upon approval of application review.

Written Testing will be conducted at City Hall, 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA, 99201, on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 2:00 P.M.

Additional sessions may be made available depending upon number of applicants and testing space available. Online Remote Testing Examination links with instructions will be emailed prior to 12:00 a.m.

Pacific time on Thursday, February 19, 2026, and will expire at 11:59 p.m. on February 23, 2026. Keep in mind that the test link will be emailed from City of Spokane (info@governmentjobs.com).

NOTE: Remote examinees may begin the exam at any time during the test period; however, once you begin, you will have 1.5 hours to complete the examination.

You may take the exam only once during the open recruitment period. The test may include such subjects as:

• Safety & Vehicle Operation
• Interpersonal Skills
• Reading
• Math & Reasoning
• Mechanics

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our organization.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, genetic information, veteran/military status or disability status.

As a Fair Chance employer, City of Spokane does not conduct initial background screening for non-public safety positions.