Operator I, II - Streets

  • City of Palmdale
  • Palmdale, California
  • Full Time

The full salary range for this position is as follows: Operator I - $31.53 to $40.25 / Operator II - $34.76 to $44.37. Expected hiring range is as follows: Operator I - $31.53 to $34.76 / Operator II - $34.76 to $38.32.

The Operator performs semiskilled to skilled work in the maintenance and repair of various systems and areas; operates light and moderately heavy power-driven equipment to clean, maintain and repair.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Operator I
This entry-level class in the Operator series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Operator II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties as assigned to the journey level class. This class is typically used as a training class in that incumbents have only limited related work experience. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks.

Operator II
This is the full journey level class within the Operator series and is distinguished from the Operator I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned with only minimal instruction or assistance. Incumbents work independently, seeking assistance only as new or unusual situations arise. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Operator I class.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Essential and other important responsibilities and functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Operate a variety of light to heavy equipment including, but not limited to, front-end loader, backhoe, dump truck, street sweeper, and road grader used in the construction and/or maintenance of storm drains and canals, roads, trails, parks, and related projects.
  • Respond to questions and concerns from members of the public; provide information as is appropriate; and resolve public service complaints.
  • Responding to related emergencies determines proper actions and perform the necessary repairs to resolve each situation.
  • Ensure the proper authorities are notified of the emergency. Follow up with post-emergency notifications and reports.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on the tools, equipment, and vehicles used to perform work functions; and ensure vehicles have adequate tools, equipment, materials and supplies to perform daily activities and respond to after hour emergencies.
  • Set up traffic controls to ensure a safe work site and safe public passage and access around the work site.
  • Perform related work, as required.

Example Of Essential Functions When Assigned To:

Streets

  • Operate motor patrol in grading and road construction and maintenance operations.
  • Grade, claw, excavate, and backfill in accordance with general plans and layouts.
EXPERIENCE & TRAINING / LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATE

Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Streets:

  1. Operator I:
    1. Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. or equivalent.
    2. Experience: One year of general maintenance and/or construction work experience with an agency, company, or organization.
    3. Operator II:
      1. Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. or equivalent.
      2. Experience: Two years of experience operating light and/or moderately heavy equipment in the construction and maintenance of various public works projects; OR Two years as a Maintenance Worker II with the City of Palmdale.
      3. Licenses/Certifications/Other Requirements:

        Possession of a valid California driver's license by the time of appointment, and the ability to be insured with the City's insurance carrier is required.

        Operator I:

        Possession of a Class A or B California drivers license by the time of hire.

        Operator II:

        Possession of a Class A or B California drivers license by the time of job application submittal.

        MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

        Knowledge of:

        • Principles and practices of technical and functional supervision and training.
        • Maintenance, repair, and methods of operation of related tools and heavy equipment including backhoes, high-pressure water jetting equipment (hydrovactor), dump trucks, 90 lb. jackhammers, and other related equipment.
        • Occupational hazards and safe working practices pertinent to repair, and construction, including working around biohazards and in confined spaces.
        • Traffic control laws and safety procedures.
        • Methods and techniques for recordkeeping.
        • Basic principles of mathematics.
        • Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.

        Ability to:

        Operator I

        • Operate backhoes, high-pressure water jetting equipment, 90-pound jackhammers, and other equipment safely and effectively.
        • Develop and implement appropriate responses to maintenance, and repair issues.
        • Follow and comply with standard operating procedures.
        • Follow safety procedures for biohazards, confined spaces, and outdoor settings.
        • Work independently and make sound decisions.
        • Respond to community and internal concerns.
        • Understand and follow instructions.
        • Communicate clearly and effectively in writing and speech.
        • Interpret technical information including maps and drawings.
        • Perform basic math.
        • Build effective working relationships.

        Operator II Streets

        • Operate light and moderately heavy equipment safely in the construction/maintenance of infrastructure.
        • Understand equipment operation and follow safety practices.
        • Diagnose equipment malfunctions and identify hazards.
        • Operate a specialized industrial vacuum sewer cleaning vehicle.
        • Operate front-end loader, backhoe, dump truck, sweeper, grader, and more.
        • Maintain awareness in high-traffic and hazardous environments.
        • Perform minor maintenance on tools/equipment.
        • Communicate clearly, verbally and in writing.
        Working Conditions: Physical Demands:

        Mobility: Frequent keyboard use, sitting, climbing, bending, walking, reaching, kneeling, grasping, and repetitive motions. May require ladder climbing, power tool use, and driving.

        Lifting: Frequently up to 10 lbs., occasionally up to 40 lbs., and tools/supplies up to 90 lbs.

        Vision: Frequent close-up and overall vision; requires depth and color vision for inspection and operation.

        Dexterity: Frequent writing, grasping, holding, reaching, and repetitive motion.

        Work Environment:

        The work environment includes both indoor and outdoor settings. Outdoor work involves exposure to all weather conditions and heavy vehicle traffic. Employees may also be exposed to chemicals, fumes, dust, and air contaminants.

        Incumbents must be available for on-call and stand-by duties, and may work during evenings, weekends, and holidays to respond to emergencies.

      Job ID: 483570732
      Originally Posted on: 7/1/2025

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