Heavy Equipment Operator

The purpose of this classification is to operate track or rubber-tired construction equipment with specialized functions related to maintenance and construction activities where the operation of complex mechanisms requires the highest degree of skill, dexterity, and finesse, and where work is performed to exacting tolerances. Classification is reserved for those positions where operation of included equipment is the primary function of the job.

Maneuvers heavy equipment and operates complex mechanisms involving digging, moving earth and materials, grading, loading, and performing similar tasks in order to advance projects relating to construction and maintenance of County streets, utilities, and other infrastructure; equipment is primarily driven and operated on-site, but does require some driving over public roads; maneuvers in and around traffic, crew workers, equipment, utilities, and other obstacles; obeys all traffic laws and safety guidelines; monitors immediate environment and work area to ensure the safety of operator, other workers, the equipment, and the public. Operates excavator, trackhoe, and backhoe to perform skilled digging and trenching for maintenance, upkeep, and construction projects for public utilities and other infrastructure, where exacting tolerances and specification are required; controls placement of equipment and determines optimum approach to each digging scenario in order to minimize destruction of property and avoid electric, water, sewer, and other public utility lines. Operates a track or rubber-tired loader with large volume and weight capacities to load materials into trucks or move them over short distances; positions equipment and controls height, angle, and position of scoop for optimum delivery of payload; controls amount and weight of materials being lifted to avoid exceeding equipment capacity. Operates motor-grader, scraper, and excavator with blade attachment to set gradients for large construction and maintenance projects such as roads, landscaping, embankments, and other projects requiring exacting specifications related to slope, angle, and pitch; determines appropriate settings and adjusts blades for height, angle, and pitch to achieve desired outcome; maneuvers equipment and operates mechanisms to skillfully set gradient, smooth surfaces, and spread materials. Operates bulldozer, scraper, and compactor to move earth, gravel, sand, and other materials for large construction and maintenance projects; operates mechanisms to establish rough grades or to smooth and compact surfaces in preparation for pavement, construction, or other work. Operates vehicles and equipment in lower classifications as needed or assigned to complete division or departmental projects and workload. Performs basic and semi-skilled labor as appropriate to assist in completion of maintenance, upkeep, and construction projects; picks up paper, limbs, and other debris; uses hand tools and operates motorized tools as necessary to complete assigned task; installs maintains street signs; and manually loads, moves, and arranges materials. Performs other related duties as required. In the event of a declared state of emergency, employees in this classification may be called to work during days or hours other than those for which they are regularly scheduled.

High school diploma or GED; supplemented by extensive experience and/or training that includes demonstrated proficiency in the operation of assigned equipment in maintenance, construction, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License; may require a valid Commercial Driver's License with appropriate endorsements. Fingerprinting may be required.