Motor Equipment Operators (Multiple openings)

Definition

Skilled manual work in the operation of heavy equipment which requires a high degree of dexterity, inspection of the equipment for proper operating condition and carrying out certain preventive maintenance procedures; all other related work, as required.

Supervision

Works under general supervision, following departmental rules, regulations and policies, requiring the ability to plan and perform operations to complete assigned task, or tasks, according to a prescribed time schedule; refers unusual problems to superiors.

Performs functions which are generally well defined, but require judgment and decision-making when operating equipment.

Work Environment

Most work is performed outside, with exposure to constant loud noise and potential exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, equipment with moving mechanical parts, and in confined spaces; outdoor work may be performed in adverse weather conditions with exposure to hazards associated with chemicals, trenches, and construction sites. Workload is subject to seasonal and unplanned fluctuations; the employee may respond to emergency situations.

The employee operates a variety of heavy and light motor equipment and other equipment, such as light trucks, tractors, graders, snow plows, sanders and other equipment compatible with license limitations. The employee also operates various hand and pneumatic tools.

The employee generally has contact with other town employees and limited contact with the general public.

Errors could result in personal injury, injury to others, delay or loss of service and damage to buildings or equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Operates assigned equipment; performs heavy labor, including digging with pick and shovel, breaking up ground, concrete, and hot top with a pneumatic hammer.

Drives dump truck, back fills holes and trenches, tamps gravel to prepare for patch.

May check for sewer trouble spots and respond to calls of blocked sewers or storm drains; cleans sewer trouble spots and storm drains; may pick up trash; maintains grounds; or performs other related activities.

Sands and plows streets during snow emergencies; responds to emergencies, as required; performs preventive maintenance on equipment, greases, changes oil, and cleans equipment; changes tires; performs minor maintenance.

Performs all work of lower grade motor equipment operators.

Follows appropriate work practices and operating procedures to ensure compliance with applicable health and safety codes and standards, and keeps work area and equipment and tools clean, neat, orderly safe and secure.

May supervise other workers.

Performs similar or related work as required, or as situation dictates.

Recommended Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

High school diploma; one or more years of experience operating heavy motor equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Requirements

Valid Massachusetts Commercial Driver’s License, with airbrake and tanker endorsements

Knowledge, Ability and Skill

Thorough knowledge of procedures, techniques, equipment, materials and tools used in public works construction, repair and maintenance operations.

Ability to operate and maintain heavy motor equipment, power tools and hand tools. Ability to interact in an effective manner with fellow employees, supervisors and the public. Ability to read work orders and instructions.

Skill in operating heavy and light motor equipment and construction equipment, driving vehicles, and performing labor work.

Physical Requirements

Strenuous physical effort is generally required to perform duties. The employee is frequently required to use hands to operate equipment, walk, stand, sit, speak and hear, reach with hands and arms, balance, crouch, crawl, stoop, and climb. Stamina is required to work in adverse weather conditions. Required to work in confined spaces and lift or move items weighing up to 100 pounds. Physical ability to use power and hand tools and drive various classes of motor vehicles, operate and drive various pieces of heavy construction and maintenance equipment. Vision requirements include the ability to read routine documents and operate vehicles and equipment.