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TT
The Town of North Reading
Maintenance Craftsman - DPW/Highway
Career Insights for Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator
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Scorecard
Based on Massachusetts data
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What they do
An Operating Engineer or Heavy Equipment Operator drives and operates heavy equipment used in quarries, construction sites, landfills, refuse and recycling centers, or ports. Heavy Equipment may include, but is not limited to, bulldozers, excavators, paving equipment and pile drivers.
$65,563 / year median in Massachusetts
+15% projected growth
Job Description
Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Maintenance Craftsman specializing in highway and civil infrastructure maintenance to join our Public Works Department (DPW). In this vital role, you will be responsible for ensuring the safety, functionality, and longevity of our roadway systems and related infrastructure. Your expertise will help maintain smooth traffic flow, safe work zones, and durable roadways through skilled operation of heavy equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and proactive maintenance practices. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to community safety and infrastructure resilience while working outdoors on dynamic construction projects. Duties Operate heavy machinery including loaders, backhoes, graders, dump trucks, front loader trucks, and paving equipment to perform roadway construction, repair, and maintenance tasks. Conduct roadway repairs such as asphalt paving, shoulder grading, pothole patching, and surface leveling to ensure safe driving conditions. Perform routine inspections of equipment and infrastructure components; conduct minor repairs or coordinate with mechanics for more complex issues utilizing mechanical knowledge and hand tools. Assist with utility locating and excavation activities while adhering to safety protocols; operate power tools and welding equipment as needed for infrastructure repairs. Engage in manual handling tasks including heavy lifting of materials and equipment; support roadway construction projects in a civil infrastructure environment. Maintain detailed records of work performed, equipment usage, safety inspections, and incident reports; communicate effectively with team members regarding project status. Qualifications Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment such as loaders, backhoes, graders, dump trucks, and front loader trucks. Strong knowledge of roadway construction techniques including paving, grading, asphalt work, and highway maintenance procedures. Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues; proficiency with hand tools and power tools required for repairs. Prior experience working on construction sites or civil infrastructure projects involving roadways or highway maintenance. Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including heavy lifting and outdoor manual labor in various weather conditions. Excellent safety awareness with a commitment to following all safety guidelines during operations; understanding of construction site safety protocols essential.