Equipment Operator I - Utilities

Job Summary

This position works as a part of the utility team to operate medium to heavy hydraulic equipment such as dump trucks, backhoes, specialized equipment and a variety of hand tools in water and sewer construction, repairs and maintenance. When assigned and under limited supervision, this position drives an assigned geographic area and accurately records both residential and commercial metering devices.

Essential Functions

1. Uses a front-end loader to load, unload and move materials into and out of dump trucks at various sites as directed. 2. Performs duties involved in repairing and constructing water and wastewater lines, etc., and accomplishes tasks such as : repair leaks, set taps, repair fire hydrants and valves, flush mains, clear stoppages, etc. 3. Uses dump truck and trailer for hauling backhoe to job site. 4. Keeps detailed records of work performed using the City's Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). 5. Common equipment operated includes : dump trucks, backhoes, tractor-trailer trucks, rubber tire loader, water jet cleaning and boring machines. Other small hand and power tools are used as needed. 6. Must have flexibility to work overtime and respond to after hour emergencies. 7. Performs accurate recording of commercial and residential meters. 8. Performs meter change outs as assigned. 9. Must be available to work a rotating on-call schedule. 10. May be required to work in confined spaces and at heights to 135 feet. 11. Performs basic housekeeping duties. 12. Performs equipment maintenance and cleaning. 13. Performs related duties as directed when such duties are a logical and appropriate assignment to the position. 14. Regular and timely attendance are required for this position. 15. Interacts professionally and respectfully with the public, coworkers and others in the course of daily work.

Required Skills

A minimum of six months recent experience in manual labor activities to include operating hydraulic type equipment such as : front-end loader / backhoe, lift bucket truck, or other equipment used for utilities repairs. Working knowledge of equipment operations, safety rules. Must have the ability to follow both written and verbal instructions. Must have the ability to complete tasks as assigned. Ability to work in a team environment, contribute as a team member and treat co-workers and customers with respect. Ability to work any day of the week (weekends and weekdays) and long hours. Requires reading, writing and math skills at a level needed to understand directions, equipment operating procedures, etc., and the physical ability to perform assigned tasks. Must obtain a Class A CDL Texas driver's license within one year of hire. Must have regular and punctual attendance, flexibility to work overtime and respond to emergency situations during non-scheduled work hours. Must pass a Federal / National criminal background check. Must have a valid Texas driver's license with an acceptable driving record as defined by City policy. Must pass a pre-employment basic physical, drug screen, functional assessment screening (Level 1), and a Titmus vision screening.

Working Conditions

While performing the essential functions of this position, there will be routine and frequent exposure to : Bright / dim light, dusts and pollen, extreme heat and / or cold, wet or humid conditions, extreme noise levels, animals / wildlife, vibration, fumes and / or noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, electrical shock, confined spaces, heights, and other extreme hazards not listed above. Safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, hard hats, safety vests, steel-toe boots, and seat belts are provided and must be worn as required by department procedures and good safety practices.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job entails moderate physical labor, which requires strength and agility. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit or smell. The employee must occasionally lift, shovel, and carry 25 to 50 pounds and exert up to 70 pounds of force. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the job requirements change.