Heavy Equipment Operator

This is semi-skilled non-exempt work in the operation of complex types of automotive and public works construction equipment. Employees are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the assigned equipment and for routine maintenance checks. This position is subject to random mandatory drug and alcohol testing. Work requires some manipulative skill and dexterity. The Equipment Operator may also be responsible for assisting with the installation and repair of safety barricades and directional signage.

Employees in this classification are responsible for overall crew production through the primary operation of an excavator or grader. This position must effectively plan jobsite activities so that resources are utilized in the most efficient manner. Additionally, they are responsible for jobsite layout/planning, loading dump trucks, major excavating/grading activities, and assisting crew chief with computer data entry on a reoccurring basis.

An employee in this classification must be proficient in the operation of the following equipment: tractor with box blade, compactor/roller, backhoe, skid steer with various attachments, and front-end loader, large excavator, and road grader. This position includes CDL Class A drivers. CDL class B is covered under Equipment Operators.

Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position may at times, be required to provide support before, and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies, depending on assigned emergency response role.

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Operation of assigned equipment based on operating skills and job requirement. This includes all equipment used in the maintenance of roadways and drainage canals and as assigned in above classifications
• Reads and understands: signs, signals, load charts, grade stakes, excavation plans, operating manuals and service procedures
• Monitors gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure equipment is working properly.
• Operates, inspects, cleans and performs routine mechanical maintenance on assigned equipment
• Inspects equipment for safety issues on a daily basis as well as the condition of the work site prior to setting up equipment.
• Ensures adherence to safe work practices and procedures
• Moves materials over short distances, such as around job site or canal banks
• Observes hand signals, grade stakes and other markings when operating machines
• Becomes familiar with machine capabilities and limitations
• Removes vegetation jams and fallen trees that block navigation, access and water flow. When necessary enters water to remove obstructions
• Regularly sets up, adjusts, controls, tests and operates equipment to complete assignments
• Utilization of small hand tools and equipment, such as a, chainsaw, and shovel.
• Operation of light “pickup” trucks to haul sand, shellrock, stone, gravel, supplies, tools, co‑workers, and materials to and from work sites.
• Employee is required to pick up debris and clean in and around shop areas, office buildings, parks, and parking lots using shovels, pitchforks and other hand tools.
• Continuous and on‑going departmental projects and cross‑training.
• Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral instructions.
• Knowledge of safe handling techniques and the occupational hazards of operating motorized construction equipment while working either alone or in a “crew” environment.
• Ability to detect malfunctions in mechanical systems on the assigned vehicle/construction equipment.
• Sufficient physical strength, agility and freedom to climb up into and down from equipment safely.
• Manual dexterity in manipulating small hand tools and equipment including a 2‑way radio.
• Ability…