Heavy Equipment Operator - Career Path

Overview

The purpose of this classification is to perform a variety of field service tasks while operating heavy equipment within the Utilities department. Employees are eligible for noncompetitive career ladder promotion to Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator II after meeting the established requirements. The following duties and functions represent the type of tasks performed.

• Performs pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections, prepares equipment, reports issues to supervisor.
• Performs light maintenance on equipment (greasing, lubing, refueling, refilling lubricants) and cleans vehicles, beds, and mounted equipment; secures vehicle after use.
• Operates equipment for cleaning sanitary sewer mains, pumping station wet wells, storm drain lines; soft digging and loading refuse and materials.
• Assists in installing and repairing water mains, sewer systems, fire hydrants, and pumping stations.
• Conducts inspections and investigations to determine compliance with ordinances.
• Ensures compliance with safety regulations and standard operating procedures.
• Maintains records and submits reports of work performed.
• Performs on‑call utility services as needed.
• Performs other related work as required.

Employees use a variety of power and hand tools to complete tasks. Proficiency in operating the following utility equipment is required.

• Fork lift
• Vactor
• Dump Truck
• Bob Cat

• High school diploma or valid equivalent.
• One to three years of experience within a Utility division functional area, construction and/or equipment operation (prior outside experience considered).
• Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• Must meet 100% of the Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator I KSA’s, verified by supervisor prior to appointment (internal) or within three (3) months (external).
• Must complete the Heavy Equipment Operator I general written and practical tests with a minimum passing score of 70% on each component.
• For Heavy Equipment Operators in Distribution, must possess and maintain a Level III Water Distribution License.

• Effectively communicates with supervisors, employees, other departments, contractors, engineers, utility companies, vendors, agencies, the public, and others as needed.
• Accurately receives and delivers messages and information to appropriate individuals.
• Prepares accurate and thorough written records and reports.
• Understands and follows oral and written instructions and completes tasks with minimal supervision.
• Establishes and maintains harmonious relationships with supervisors, customers, employees, departments, agencies, and the public.

• Knowledge of TTC zones and ability to correctly set up City street TTC.
• Knowledge of and ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Knowledge of traffic and highway safety rules and regulations and of effective precautionary measures.
• Knowledge of hazardous conditions related to heavy equipment and safety precautions.
• Ability to work with asphalt and concrete for repairs.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment.
• Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment and detect malfunctions.

• Knowledge of specialized facets of storm water maintenance and/or construction work.
• Knowledge of and ability to properly clean stormwater pipes and basins.
• Ability to perform specialized storm water maintenance or construction work.

• Knowledge of and ability to maintain gravity line elevations.
• Knowledge of and ability to properly clean sanitary sewer laterals and main lines.

• Knowledge of and ability to correctly lay new water mains of all sizes.
• Knowledge and ability to install fire hydrants.

The City of Boynton Beach, Florida, is an Equal Opportunity Employer and an affirmative action employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender (including identity or expression), marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or any other protected classification as defined by applicable law.

The City of Boynton Beach will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective and current employees to discuss accommodations with the employer. The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform this position.