Equipment Operator II

Position

Equipment Operator II at Grant County Public Utility District

Closing Date to Apply:
December 24th, 2025

Wage Rate: $56.44 Hourly

Number of Positions: 2

Grant PUD’s benefits may be available if hired; different employee types are eligible for different benefits.

Grant PUD — Unified Insurance Program (uip-wa.org)

Grant County PUD is a drug‑free workplace. A pre‑employment drug screen and background check will be administered as part of the hiring process.

This position will work under the direction of a Supervisor, Supervising Foreman, Foreman, or Journeyman. The Equipment Operator II is responsible for operating heavy equipment to support construction, maintenance, and repair of electric systems, both overhead and underground, safely and efficiently.

Performs specialized work with electrical line construction equipment, related attachments, and certified crane operation. Responsibilities also include maintaining supplies, assisting groundmen, and training Equipment Operator I employees. Requires exceptional hand‑eye coordination near energized high‑voltage lines.

• Operating vehicles and equipment requiring a Commercial Driver’s License; e.g., cranes, backhoes, bulldozers, vacuum trucks, dump trucks, underground pullers, diggers, overhead pullers, and tensioners; assist other operators.
• Assist in the toolroom and perform Groundman work when required.
• Assist with construction, maintenance, and repair of overhead and underground electrical lines and substations using proper methods while minimizing damage.
• Build and maintain right‑of‑way access.
• Adhere to safety protocols while working near energized high‑voltage lines and equipment.
• Assist in training other employees, including Equipment Operator I.
• Apply knowledge of rules, regulations, and standards to ensure safe operation of tools, vehicles, and equipment.
• Maintain safe working clearances near energized conductors.
• Select, use, and care for personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow verbal and written instructions to complete tasks.
• Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and external contacts.
• Maintain detailed records and prepare accurate reports.
• Establish cooperative working relationships with team members.
• Operate and maintain equipment and vehicles used in line construction and maintenance.
• Lift and carry heavy objects safely.
• Consistently observe safety precautions while performing all tasks.
• Utilize tools, vehicles, and equipment to complete construction and maintenance activities.
• Perform manual labor associated with electrical line and substation construction and maintenance.
• Build and maintain right‑of‑way access along powerlines.
• May be called‑out for after‑hours emergency work (24 hours).
• District Management will determine the number of Equipment Operator II positions required.
• Demonstrated commitment to Grant PUD’s mission, vision, values, strategic plan, and Code of Excellence.
• Understand and adhere to compliance requirements, including laws, regulations, and Grant PUD policies.
• Actively participate in the safety program: follow policies, alert to hazards, report incidents within 24 hours, and accept feedback.

• High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.
• Five (5) years’ experience operating heavy equipment in the utility/line or construction industry.
• Possession of a valid Washington State Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) at appointment and continued maintenance; obtain required endorsements.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain within 6 months.
• Possession of flagging and crane operation certifications with ongoing maintenance.

• Working knowledge of the line construction and maintenance trade.
• Knowledge of Washington State Electrical Workers Safety rules and regulations.
• Thorough knowledge of Washington State General Safety and Health Standards.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations.

• Exercise sound judgement, especially in stressful situations.
• Use district computers and programs.
• Write legibly and maintain paper and electronic records.
• Problem‑solve effectively.
• Operate and train others in proper equipment operation.
• Fo…