Heavy Equipment Operator

JOB CODE: 1164

PAY GRADE: 1100

SALARY RANGE: $24,092 - $40,924

LOCATION OF WORK
Various City-Parish Departments

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of a higher classification, performs highly skilled work in the operation of large heavy-duty equipment as listed on the City-Parish's official Equipment Operator Equipment List and other related heavy equipment. Work involves responsibility for the safe operation of large heavy-duty equipment used in public works construction and maintenance. Work may also involve the operation of a variety of light and medium equipment on an incidental basis. Employees in this class operate draglines, motor graders, gradalls, front-end loaders, street sweepers, and other pieces of large heavy-duty equipment on a regular assignment. Employees are responsible for operating such equipment properly. Some positions in this classification may be on 24-hour call out for emergency situations. Close supervision may be exercised over a crew of workers as assigned. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Operates on a regular basis one or more pieces of large heavy-duty equipment, such as dragline, bulldozer, gradall, scraper, prentice loader, or other equipment as outlined in the official Equipment Operator Equipment List. Maintains refuse at the City-Parish landfill by pushing it to the proper area at the proper grade; covers refuse with the proper thickness of dirt to prevent odors. Digs new ditches and canals, cleans existing ditches and canals, lays pipe to ensure proper drainage and to prevent flooding. Builds and repairs fences. Maintains heavy equipment by washing and cleaning, changing belts, hoses, oil and oil filters, and performing any other minor repairs; more complex repairs are referred to mechanics at Central Garage. Maintains interstate and boulevard medians by cutting grass, weed eating, and pruning trees and bushes. Removes large debris not picked up by garbage men, such as large branches, limbs, and large household items discarded by the public. Maintains City-Parish roads, streets, and curbs to allow for safe travel by the public. May supervise a crew of workers engaged in maintenance and construction activities, or as assigned. May include the operation of a variety of light and medium automotive equipment on an incidental basis.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the principles and practices of operating and servicing specialized construction and maintenance equipment. Knowledge of the applicable traffic laws and regulations governing automotive equipment operations. Knowledge of the work hazards and applicable safety precautions associated with assigned equipment and operation. Skill in the operation of assigned equipment. Ability to detect needed repairs and to make necessary operational adjustments. Ability to perform strenuous manual labor for extended periods, often under unfavorable weather and working conditions. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions. Ability to effectively supervise subordinates as assigned. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS