Heavy Equipment Operator - Career Path

Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator I

The purpose of this classification is to perform a variety of field services tasks, while operating heavy equipment, within the Utilities department. Employees in this classification are eligible for noncompetitive career ladder promotion to Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator II position after meeting the established career ladder requirements.

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspections. Inspects and prepares equipment for safe and proper operation prior to beginning work for the day; reports to supervisor all notable issues found during inspections; performs light maintenance on equipment, which includes greasing and lubing of equipment, refueling, and refilling lubricants; cleans vehicles, beds, and mounted equipment upon completion of assignments; secures vehicle after use.
• Operates various equipment for (but not limited to) 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.

Tools, Equipment, and Software Employees in this classification use a variety of power and hand tools to complete tasks in their area of assignment. Proficiency in operating the following list of utility equipment used for various utility operations. Employees may use the following equipment:

• Fork lift
• Vactor
• Dump Truck
• Bob Cat

High school diploma or valid equivalent; and One (1) to three (3) years of experience within a Utility division functional area, construction and/or equipment operation. Prior outside experience will be considered; and Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL); and Must meet 100% of the Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator I KSA's. The requirements for meeting the KSA's must be verified and documented by the assigned area supervisor prior to appointment for internal candidates or within three (3) months for external candidates;

and Must complete the Heavy Equipment Operator I general written and practical tests with a minimum passing score of 70% on each component. Employees who fail to obtain a minimum score of 70% will have a two (two) month waiting period to re-take the division area test. (For Heavy Equipment Operators in Distribution) Must possess and maintain a Level III Water Distribution License.

Effectively communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, contractors, engineers, utility companies, vendors, outside agencies, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Accurately and expeditiously receives and delivers messages and information to the appropriate individuals. Ability to prepare accurate and thorough written records and reports. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions and to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervisory direction.

Ability to understand and quickly and accurately follow brief oral and written instructions on moderately complex matters. Ability to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with Supervisor, customers, other employees, other departments, other governmental and regulatory agencies, and the general public as needed.

Knowledge of TTC zones and the ability to correctly set up City street TTC. Knowledge of and ability to accurately read and interpret blue prints. Knowledge of traffic and highway safety rules and regulations and of effective precautionary measures necessary to avoid accidents. Knowledge of the hazards involved in the use of heavy equipment and of the safety precautions. Ability to appropriately work with asphalt and concrete to make various repairs.

Ability to properly operate heavy equipment. Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment and to detect and identify apparatus malfunctions. Knowledge of specialized facets of storm water maintenance and/or construction work. Knowledge of and the ability to properly clean stormwater pipes and basins. Ability to properly perform specialized storm water maintenance or construction work. Knowledge of and the ability to maintain gravity line elevations.

Knowledge of and the ability to properly clean…