ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This is semi-skilled non-exempt work in the operation of complex types of automotive and public works construction equipment. Employees are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the assigned equipment and for routine maintenance checks.  This position is subject to random mandatory drug and alcohol testing.   Work requires some manipulative skill and dexterity.  The Equipment Operator may also be responsible for assisting with the installation and repair of safety barricades and directional signage.

Employees in this classification are responsible for overall crew production through the primary operation of an excavator or grader. This position must effectively plan jobsite activities so that resources are utilized in the most efficient manner. Additionally, they are responsible for jobsite layout/planning, loading dump trucks, major excavating/grading activities, and assisting crew chief with computer data entry on a reoccurring basis. An employee in this classification must be proficient in the operation of the following equipment: tractor with box blade, compactor/roller, backhoe, skid steer with various attachments, and front-end loader, large excavator, and road grader. This position includes CDL Class A drivers. CDL class B is covered under Equipment Operators.

Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position may at times, be required to provide support before, and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies, depending on assigned emergency response role.

Essential functions include but are not limited to:

• Operation of assigned equipment based on operating skills and job requirement. This includes all equipment used in the maintenance of roadways and drainage canals and as assigned in above classifications
• Reads and understands: signs, signals, load charts, grade stakes, excavation plans, operating manuals and service procedures
• Monitors gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure equipment is working properly.
• Operates, inspects, cleans and performs routine mechanical maintenance on assigned equipment
• Inspects equipment for safety issues on a daily basis as well as the condition of the work site prior to setting up equipment.
• Ensures adherence to safe work practices and procedures
• Moves materials over short distances, such as around job site or canal banks
• Observes hand signals, grade stakes and other markings when operating machines
• Becomes familiar with machine capabilities and limitations
• Removes vegetation jams and fallen trees that block navigation, access and water flow. When necessary enters water to remove obstructions
• Regularly sets up, adjusts, controls, tests and operates equipment to complete assignments
• Utilization of small hand tools and equipment, such as a, chainsaw, and shovel.
• Operation of light “pickup” trucks to haul sand, shellrock, stone, gravel, supplies, tools, co-workers, and materials to and from work sites.
• Employee is required to pick up debris and clean in and around shop areas, office buildings, parks, and parking lots using shovels, pitchforks and other hand tools.
• Continuous and on-going departmental projects and cross-training.
• Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral instructions.
• Knowledge of safe handling techniques and the occupational hazards of operating motorized construction equipment while working either alone or in a “crew” environment.
• Ability to detect malfunctions in mechanical systems on the assigned vehicle/construction equipment.
• Sufficient physical strength, agility and freedom to climb up into and down from equipment safely.
• Manual dexterity in manipulating small hand tools and equipment including a 2-way radio.
• Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods in all types of weather conditions, including extreme heat and adverse weather.
• Ability to clearly communicate one’s actions and work projects to and with others.
• May be required to work Overtime as required based on weather and/or environmental conditions
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Graduation from High School or equivalent recognized certification
• Experience in the operation of construction equipment or equivalent combination of related training and experience preferred
• Valid Florida Driver’s License.
• Maintain First Aid & CPR certifications or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment
• Pre-Employment Screening (i.e., Drug Test, Driver’s License, Criminal Background Check, etc.)

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Ability to work independently ensuring completion of job tasks and work within remote areas of the District.
• Knowledge of safety rules and regulations
• Operate electronic devices to communicate with office and other vehicles, especially in emergency situations.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this position, the employee works in outdoor conditions, near and on machinery, or in high precarious places.  The employee will likely be exposed to hot/ dry/ wet/ humid/cold conditions.  It is considered primarily field work with regular exposure to unpredictable weather conditions, on remote locations with heavy vegetated areas and no facilities accessible. The employee will occasionally be exposed to fumes, airborne particles, chemicals, vibration and other potential hazards associated with the maintenance and/or construction of roads and drainage works and other types of construction. Manual dexterity is necessary in order to manipulate machinery, trucks, and tools.  The noise level in the work environment is quiet to moderate but can be high under certain circumstances.  Hand-to-eye coordination is necessary to operate various tools and construction equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

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. Work is performed outside and within heavy equipment machinery and requires the employee to inspect job sites.  Hand-to-eye coordination is necessary to operate various heavy equipment and motor vehicles.  This job requires long periods sitting and requires utilizing a computer at times.  This person must be able to manipulate a keyboard and utilize a hand-held device to communicate with field employees.  Ability to walk, stand, and work on unstable soil, and to walk extended distances.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to engage in the following activities: lifting over 80 pounds, sitting, standing, walking, climbing, crouching, crawling, stooping, kneeling or balancing; reaching with arms; using hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools or controls; talking, and hearing.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust one’s focus.