Full-Time Heavy Equipment Operator I or II

About the role

Safely operate heavy and light equipment for maintenance and construction of streets, drainage ditches, water and wastewater utilities, and other City facilities in an efficient and proficient manner.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (e.g., backhoe, front end loader, boiler, trucks, grader, excavator, asphalt repair equipment, road painting equipment) for maintenance of streets, drainage ditches, sewer and water utilities, and parking lots.
• Act as lead worker on a crew when assigned.
• Follow City of Homer policies and procedures and OSHA safety procedures.
• Report problems, issues, or concerns to supervisor, Superintendent, or Public Works Director.
• Perform manual labor as required in maintenance of City equipment or facilities.
• Conduct routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned City equipment; report defects or needed repairs to supervisor; clean equipment.
• Control traffic at work sites by flagging to guide traffic through work areas, as required or assigned.
• Assist in training lower-level employees performing maintenance and repair duties.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Lead Equipment Operator, Superintendent, or Public Works Director.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Valid Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement.
• Four years' experience operating heavy equipment (Equipment Operator I) or five years' experience (Equipment Operator II).
• Working knowledge of road construction/maintenance; construction/maintenance of water and sewer systems preferred.
• Working knowledge of hazards and safety precautions common to heavy equipment operations.
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Basic computer knowledge.
• Good customer service skills.

Working Conditions

• High frequency of exposure to adverse weather conditions such as extreme cold, snow, and ice.
• High frequency exposure to hazardous conditions, including working in deep ditches, use of steam boilers, confined spaces, and hazardous paints/solvents.
• Work includes heavy physical effort in lifting or moving equipment and working in awkward positions with tools or equipment.
• Position requires being on call and available for overtime, including work on holidays, weekends, and various shifts.
• Subject to the Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.

Decision Making & Supervisory Authority

• Direction is given daily by immediate supervisor or assigned leader; responsible for carrying out unit procedures and developing procedures at the unit level (Equipment Operator II).
• Independent and collaborative judgment is critical, especially in dangerous conditions.
• Activities may pose significant liability to the City.
• Moderate budget authority at the unit level.
• May direct a Public Works crew while completing a given task or project (Equipment Operator II).

External Visibility & Contact

• High frequency of contact and visibility with the public.
• Moderate contact with key service personnel for purchase of parts and supplies.
• Infrequent contact with key City personnel, government officials, and attendance at public meetings.