Large Equipment Operator

Job Title:

Large Equipment Operator (Levels I-IV)

Status:

Full‑time, Non‑Exempt (Hourly) Summary The City of Lake Charles is seeking skilled and dependable individuals to operate heavy construction and maintenance equipment used for drainage, ditching, roadway repair, utilities work, debris removal, and related public works operations. Work is performed under general supervision and may include leading small crews depending on classification level. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Safely operate heavy equipment such as excavators, dump trucks, motor graders, front‑end loaders, skid steers, sweepers, backhoes, trenchers, boom and side mowers, jet‑vac/jet‑rodder trucks, garbage trucks (side loader, rear loader, grapple), and buses (where assigned). Perform ditching, culvert installation, pipe setting, driveway and roadway cutting, material hauling, grading, and debris removal. Complete daily preventative maintenance including greasing, fluid checks, inspections, and cleaning of assigned equipment. Identify and report mechanical issues requiring repair. Adjust equipment as needed for precise or specialized operations. Perform physical labor as required to support job functions. May operate smaller or less complex equipment as needed. May lead a small crew and provide training to lower‑level operators depending on assignment. Bus operator assignments may include driving fixed routes, assisting passengers, and completing daily route reports. Other duties as assigned. Skill Requirements (Depending on Level I-IV) Ability to operate multiple types of heavy equipment safely and efficiently. Increasing levels of proficiency required by classification tier:

• Operator I:

  Basic heavy equipment or city bus operations

• Operator II:

  Skilled operation of heavy construction and garbage equipment such as motor graders, bulldozers, grade‑all, jet‑vac trucks, etc

• Operator III:

  Proficiency in operating at least three complex heavy machines (e.g., excavator, jet‑vac truck, large dump truck, boom mower, large bus)

•

Operator IV:

Expert‑level operation of at least four advanced heavy equipment types or specialized jet‑vac/dump-trailer combinations. Ability to understand work instructions, read manuals, follow safety rules, and complete routine reports. Knowledge of safe work practices and equipment maintenance procedures. Ability to work well with supervisors, coworkers, citizens, and vendors. Supervisory Responsibilities Depending on level, may supervise 2-7 General Maintenance Workers and assist with scheduling, training, work direction, and providing feedback to supervisors. Minimum Requirements High school diploma or GED. Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements.

Experience requirements based on classification:

• Operator I:

  1-3 months related experience

• Operator II:

  6 months
• 1 year as Operator I or equivalent

• Operator III:

  2 years as Operator I/II or equivalent

•

Operator IV:

3 years as Operator II/III or equivalent. Regular and prompt attendance required. Physical Requirements Must be able to sit, stand, walk, climb, kneel, stoop, crouch, and lift/move up to 75 lbs. Must meet vision requirements including depth perception, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Work Environment Work is performed outdoors and involves exposure to moving mechanical parts, loud noise, fumes, airborne particles, high/varying weather conditions, and occasionally high or precarious places. The City of Lake Charles is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pay:

$16.95

• $20.

15 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

License/Certification:

CDL (Required)

Work Location:

In person