Summary Responsible for the operation of large motorized equipment and construction and maintenance of streets, drainage systems, and water and sewer lines and appurtenances. Responsible for operating a backhoe, mowing tractors, street sweeper, loader or other medium to heavy equipment independently or with a street or utility construction and maintenance crew. Work includes performing maintenance and servicing of equipment used.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities NOTE:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as needed to meet the needs of the organization. Operates a backhoe on a crew to dig down to broken lines, meter boxes or in other areas where underground and overhead utilities require special skill and care. Operates a backhoe to dig out old asphalt or concrete. Operates loaders, dump trucks, asphalt rollers and other medium and heavy equipment. Operates a backhoe to dig graves according to proper staking and depth; finishes corners with shovel. Operates a large tractor with side arm or bush hog attachment; works independently to cover assigned route. Makes water and sewer taps; sets industrial and residential meter boxes and meters; locates lines, leaks and breaks; repairs and replaces hydrants and valves. Loads furniture, appliances, brush or other objects from curb into trucks for disposal; loads sand, gravel, salt and other materials. May serve as team leader in absence of crew leader; keeps simple records of work activities, equipment and supplies used. Washes and cleans assigned equipment; performs routine servicing such as checking fluid level, tire pressure, changes oil and filters. Operates street sweeper and leaf loader. Maintains demolition landfill for yard waste. Performs other duties as assigned. Required Education and/or Experience High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and one-year experience in the operation, maintenance and care of a variety of medium and heavy construction equipment. Special Requirement Valid NC Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with acceptable driving record. Preferred Requirement Possession of certification as a distribution and/or collection system operator. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Working knowledge of traffic laws governing equipment operation. Working knowledge of the practice of operating and servicing medium size equipment. Working knowledge of the occupational hazards related to safety precautions for large equipment in heavy traffic and construction sites. Working knowledge of the public works or utilities function to which normally assigned. Skill and care in the operation of large specialized equipment. Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions. Ability to make minor repairs and adjustments to equipment. Ability to deal courteously with the public. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor and crew members. Ability to maintain simple records. Physical Requirements Must be able to perform heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally; 50 pounds of force frequently; and 20 pounds of force constantly. Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, pushing, pulling, reaching, walking, lifting and hearing. Must possess the visual acuity to operate heavy construction equipment in a safe manner. Vocal communication required for expressing or exchanging ideas. Hearing is required to carry out oral instructions. Working Conditions The employee is subject to hazards associated with public works and utilities including working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, vibration, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, odors, dusts, mists and oils. Work around raw sewage is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on blood borne pathogens. Work involves operating equipment in tight locations around underground and overhead utility lines, near trees, parked cars and traffic. Work may require the employee to serve on-call and respond to significant call-back work.