Ongoing Development & Specialization Tracks
Overview
After completing the 90-day program, service technicians have access to Spartan's ongoing development tracks. This card outlines available specialization paths, training resources, and the framework for continued growth.
Who This Applies To
All service technicians who have completed the 90-day onboarding program. New techs are introduced to this during their 90-day review.
Specialization Tracks
Track 1 — Water Treatment Specialist
- Training: Manufacturer training through Spartan's current water treatment supplier
- Scope: Water softener installs, iron filters, RO systems, water testing
- Benefit: Higher average tickets; expanded service offerings
- Eligibility: After 90-day certification
Track 2 — Drain & Sewer Specialist
- Training: Cart Jetter advanced certification + camera inspection proficiency
- Scope: Advanced hydro-jetting, sewer camera diagnosis, line location
- Benefit: Qualifies tech for drain service dispatch priority
- Eligibility: After 90-day certification; must pass Cart Jetter safety certification
Track 3 — Gas Line Specialist
- Training: Ohio-required certifications; coordinated through Operations Manager
- Scope: Gas line diagnostics, repair, and new installations
- Benefit: Premium billing rate; reduced outside subcontract costs
- Eligibility: After 1 year with Spartan; must hold applicable Ohio licensure
Track 4 — Senior Tech / Field Mentor
- Training: Nexstar coaching modules; ride-along mentor certification
- Scope: Mentoring new hires during their onboarding ride-along phases
- Benefit: Mentor pay differential; leadership development
- Eligibility: After 18 months; nominated by Operations Manager
Continuing Education
All Spartan technicians must maintain their Ohio plumbing license continuing education requirements. See Ohio Plumbing License Requirements by Role SOP. Spartan covers approved continuing education costs when pre-approved by Josh.
Nexstar Network Resources
As a Nexstar Network member, Spartan has access to:
- Online training library at nexstarnetwork.com
- Regional training events (pre-approved travel and attendance)
- Annual Nexstar conference (eligibility: senior techs and above)
Performance-Based Advancement
Tech compensation reviews happen at 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter. Demonstrated specialization track progress, consistent metric performance, and attitude/culture fit are the primary advancement criteria.
Related SOPs
- 90-Day Review & Full Independence
- Ohio Plumbing License Requirements by Role
- Performance Review Process
Slack Operational Insights
Water quality testing procedure (Slack: #perry-mattern): For techs pursuing the Water Treatment Specialist track, water quality should be tested on the kitchen cold side and the hot side lavatory. Tests should include TDS, hardness, chlorine, and iron (if well water). Photos of test results are posted in Slack. High pH or hardness over 10 gpg indicates need for a water softener or Halo Ion 6 system.
Poly piping watch (Slack: strategic): Spartan is building a proactive watch around polybutylene (PB) piping. Techs in the ongoing development phase are expected to identify poly piping during service calls, educate customers about its failure risk, and document findings in ServiceTitan. This is both a service quality standard and a strategic revenue driver.
Upselling based on customer patterns (Slack: sales): If a customer consistently chooses the middle-priced option, strategically position water treatment or additional service as the middle option in future proposals. Document customer history in ServiceTitan for pattern awareness.