Sr. Equipment Operator– Backhoe

About the Role

Fort Worth Water is hiring Senior Equipment Operators to operate backhoes and other heavy equipment in support of vital water and wastewater infrastructure work. As part of the 24/7 Field Operations Division, you'll be on the ground—digging trenches, repairing pipelines, clearing obstructions, and responding to emergencies that affect thousands of residents. This is a career with purpose, operating advanced machinery, working outdoors in all conditions, and supporting the daily functions of a growing city. A $2,000 sign-on incentive is available.

Responsibilities

• Operating advanced equipment including cranes, bulldozers, backhoes, dump trucks, mini excavators, trackhoes, and service trucks
• Installing, maintaining, and repairing water and wastewater pipelines
• Operating valves on water lines to isolate leaks or shut off service as needed
• Assisting in the construction and repair of water/sewer mains, fire hydrants, and service taps
• Locating and uncovering buried pipelines, cutting and measuring pipe for replacement or installation
• Clearing obstructions in collection and distribution systems using proper equipment
• Performing job site setup including traffic control measures (cones, signs, barriers)
• Conducting pre- and post-operation inspections and preventative maintenance on all assigned equipment
• Collaborating with crew members to maintain safe working conditions and complete all job tasks efficiently

Minimum Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (required)
• At least 3 years of professional experience operating motorized heavy equipment such as backhoes, skid steers, front-end loaders, or excavators (required)
• Ability to pass a hands-on heavy equipment test during the interview process
• Valid Texas Class A CDL driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to obtain a TCEQ Class D Water or Wastewater Collection I license within 12 months of hire (written test and background check required)
• Availability to work overtime, nights, weekends, holidays, and rotate in an on-call schedule
• Ability to pass a drug screen, physical, and background check
• Ability to lift up to 100 pounds and work in outdoor, extreme weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in utility repair, construction, maintenance, or fieldwork
• Prior experience working in water or wastewater utilities
• Familiarity with job site safety and work zone setup
• Experience leading or supervising a crew

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Heavy Work – Depending on assignment, positions in this class typically exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects. Working in all weather conditions; including extreme weather and temperatures. Depending on the assignment, positions in this class typically require touching, talking, hearing, seeing, grasping, standing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, walking, repetitive motions, climbing, balancing, pushing, pulling, and lifting. Incumbents may be exposed to moving mechanical parts, odors, dust, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, intense noises, gases, vibrations, chemicals, oils, and workspace restrictions.

Pay

$22.90 – $28.62/hr.

Schedule

Field Operations is a 24/7 Operation - weekend work may be required. This position is a first responder in severe weather conditions/emergencies which will be subject to work after hours, emergency call back hours, nights, weekends, holidays and will participate in an on-call rotation schedule.

Benefits

• 11 Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Paid Time Off
• Pension Plan
• Professional Development Opportunities