Storm Sewer

Term from Plumbing industry explained for recruiters

A storm sewer is a large underground pipe system that helps manage rainwater and melted snow in cities and neighborhoods. Unlike regular sewers that handle household waste, storm sewers specifically deal with rain and storm water to prevent flooding. When plumbers mention storm sewers in their experience, they're talking about working with these drainage systems, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This is different from sanitary sewers (which handle household waste) and is an important part of a community's infrastructure and flood prevention system.

Examples in Resumes

Installed and maintained Storm Sewer systems for residential developments

Supervised Storm Sewer repair projects across multiple city blocks

Designed and implemented Storm Drain solutions for commercial properties

Performed emergency repairs on Storm Water systems during flood conditions

Typical job title: "Storm Sewer Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Drainage Specialist Storm Water Technician Plumber Civil Works Plumber Underground Utilities Specialist Drainage System Installer Storm Water Management Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you plan a large-scale storm sewer installation project?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss evaluating the site, considering water flow patterns, coordinating with other utilities, planning for proper slopes and drainage, and managing a team of workers.

Q: What factors do you consider when troubleshooting a failing storm sewer system?

Expected Answer: Should explain checking for blockages, assessing pipe condition, looking for structural damage, understanding local water patterns, and considering system capacity issues.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with storm sewers?

Expected Answer: Should mention confined space safety, proper equipment use, trench safety, traffic control needs, and coordination with utility companies.

Q: How do you maintain storm sewer systems to prevent problems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular cleaning schedules, inspection methods, identifying potential issues early, and seasonal maintenance requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between a storm sewer and a sanitary sewer?

Expected Answer: Should explain that storm sewers handle rainwater and surface runoff while sanitary sewers handle household waste water.

Q: What basic tools are used in storm sewer maintenance?

Expected Answer: Should list common tools like pipe cameras, drain snakes, cleaning equipment, and basic hand tools used in maintenance work.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic pipe maintenance and cleaning
  • Understanding of drainage systems
  • Simple repairs and replacements
  • Safety procedures knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex system repairs
  • Project coordination
  • Equipment operation
  • Blueprint reading

Senior (5+ years)

  • System design and planning
  • Project management
  • Team supervision
  • Emergency response coordination

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Lack of required licenses or certifications
  • No experience with heavy equipment
  • Unable to read drainage system blueprints
  • No understanding of local plumbing codes