Heavy Equipment Operator Road and Bridge

Operates a variety of heavy equipment and trucks to maintain Pitkin County Roads and Rights of Way to provide safe and efficient travel in Pitkin County.

Employees at Level I perform entry-level labor and light equipment operation in the maintenance and repair of county roads, rights-of-way, and related facilities. Work is performed under close supervision and with guidance from senior operators or supervisors.

• Performs general road and grounds maintenance, including patching, vegetation control, sign maintenance, and snow removal.
• Operates light and basic equipment such as small loaders, pickup-mounted plows, mowers, and compactors.
• Assists crews in digging ditches and trenches using hand tools and small power equipment.
• Assists with traffic control setup and flagging for work zones.
• Performs routine inspection and basic maintenance of assigned tools and equipment; reports defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of vehicles, equipment, and work areas.
• Performs administrative and support tasks including email correspondence, data entry, and participation in meetings and training sessions.
• Responds to emergency situations as directed. Acts as a first responder in emergencies and supports public safety operations when needed.
• Promotes a positive relationship between Pitkin County government and the public through courteous, cooperative behavior and professional communication.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Employees at Level II perform skilled work in the operation of heavy equipment and the maintenance of county infrastructure. Work is performed with greater independence and technical ability, often involving complex or specialized equipment.

• Operates a variety of heavy equipment including dump trucks, loaders, snowplows, excavators, haul trucks, and road graders.
• Performs general and complex road maintenance, grounds maintenance, and snow removal operations.
• Loads trucks with soils and aggregates; performs excavation and grading work near utilities such as gas, electric, water, and sewer with precision and safety.
• Conducts preventive maintenance inspections and performs adjustments to ensure optimal equipment performance.
• May assist in training or mentoring less experienced employees.
• May serve as a lead on small crews or specialized tasks under direction from the supervisor.

Employees at Level III perform advanced, skilled work in heavy equipment operation, project coordination, and crew leadership. Work is performed with significant independence and responsibility, requiring sound judgment, technical proficiency, and leadership ability.

• Serves as the acting lead or supervisor in the absence of the operations supervisor.
• Oversees complex or specialized projects such as large-scale road reconstruction, drainage improvements, or emergency response operations
• Coordinates with other departments, contractors, and utility providers to ensure effective scheduling and completion of work.
• Provides on-the-job training, coaching, and mentorship to less experienced operators and laborers.
• Ensures work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with County policies, standards, and regulations.
• Monitors work quality, equipment use, and material needs; provides feedback and reports to supervisors on crew performance and project status.
• Assists in preparing work orders, reports, and operational documentation.

• Level I:
  • Up to 1-year experience operating heavy…