Motor Equipment Operator/Laborer

City of Westfield – Motor Equipment Operator/Laborer (WMEA Grade 11)

General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities

This is semi-skilled work in operating medium-duty motor equipment. The role involves responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of trucks and other motor equipment from light to moderate tonnage, as well as performing assigned manual and semi-skilled tasks. Work is performed under supervision with well-established procedures in accordance with Massachusetts and Department of Transportation rules and regulations. Tasks may include routine manual labor requiring considerable strength and endurance.

Supervision

Work is performed under general supervision. The employee follows established routines and uses initiative to carry out recurring assignments independently, with specific instruction provided for new, difficult, or unusual tasks. Unusual situations are referred to the supervisor for guidance.

Responsibilities

• Operates dump trucks, refuse and recycling trucks, platform trucks, rack body trucks, utility trucks, wheeled tractors, and any equipment of similar or lesser difficulty.
• Loads and unloads trucks and other vehicles by hand or with material handling equipment.
• Performs laboring duties for the host department as part of daily activities.
• Services equipment with fuel, oil, or coolants, and makes minor adjustments and repairs.
• During winter months, may operate plows or spreaders attached to 5-ton dump trucks (or larger), with potential pay adjustment to the heavy motor equipment grade.
• Performs other related duties to support department functions.

Requirements

• Must possess a valid Massachusetts CDL license, Class B or higher, or the ability to obtain it within six months of hire.
• One year of prior experience required.
• Considerable knowledge of hazardous and safety precautions in operating equipment in this class.
• Ability to make minor repairs and adjustments to equipment.
• Ability to operate two-way radio communications equipment.
• Working knowledge of the geography of the City of Westfield.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions, including technical directions.

Qualifications

• High school graduation plus sufficient work experience or technical training to perform assigned duties; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the ability to apply this knowledge to various functions.
• Skill in operating specialized construction and maintenance motor equipment at a journeyman level.
• Ability to interpret and apply standardized practices, procedures, regulations, or guidelines.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, for relaying important information and interacting with employees, department heads, City officials, and the public.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Ability to follow directions, take initiative, and complete assignments under pressure while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to follow departmental rules, regulations, policies, and practices.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, City officials, and the public.
• Professional and courteous communication with the public.

Physical Skills

• Ability to travel throughout the City as necessary.
• Work is largely physical, involving standing, stooping, kneeling, bending, squatting, and repetitive motions.
• Lifting up to 75 pounds (heavier with assistance), including bulky items, with pulling, pushing, or reaching.
• May carry 30-50 pounds and require climbing, including on/off vehicles.
• Visual demands include reading documents and operating motor vehicles and other equipment.