Equipment Operator-In-Training - 0725

Job Summary

This is an entry-level trainee position intended for individuals with no or less than six (6) months of professional experience operating a specialized commercial vehicle. Individuals already in possession of a valid South Carolina Class B or A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or equivalent CDL from their state of residence (see Driver's License Requirements section below) will complete up to four (4) weeks of training, including both classroom and hands-on training intended to provide the essential skills and knowledge required to operate a variety of specialized commercial vehicles, including right-side drive safely and independently upon program completion. Individuals who do not already possess a CDL will undergo additional training for up to 12 weeks and will be required to obtain a Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) within three (3) weeks of hire and the CDL license within eight (8) weeks of hire.

The purpose of this position is to develop and prepare trainees for promotion to Solid Waste Equipment Operator I. To successfully complete the program, trainees must demonstrate proficiency and understanding in the following areas: federal, state, City, and department rules and regulations; inspections, reports, and documentation; equipment safety; customer service; routes and directions; and driving. Failure to demonstrate proficiency and understating in all areas at designated evaluation points will result in removal from the training program.

Essential Functions

Essential Functions

% of Time

• Obtain CDL License: Complete CDL training program, to include classroom study and hands-on driving instruction. Must test and successfully pass CLP exam within three (3) weeks of hire. Must test and successfully obtain CDL within eight (8) weeks of hire.

• Complete Commercial Vehicle Training Program:
• • Rules and Regulations: Receive department orientation and review of all department and City policies and procedures. Study and acquire knowledge of all federal and state traffic laws and regulations pertaining to operating a commercial vehicle.
  • Vehicle Care, Inspections, Reports, and Documentation: Learn the requirements of conducting pre- and post- trip inspections to include making sure all equipment is in proper working order. Receive hands-on instruction in checking tire pressure, fluid levels, safety equipment, gauges, steering controls, accelerator and brake pedals, horn, wipers, lights, mirrors, etc. Learn how to properly clean and maintain vehicles and their components to include greasing and lubricating movable parts, as well as proper fueling procedures. Learn the guidelines for completing and submitting accident, injury, and incident reports.
  • Equipment Operation and Safety: Train in proper operation of specialized vehicle equipment (e.g., joysticks, levers, mounted brooms, robotic/mechanical arms, claw/grabber, boom/suction hose, boom/crane telescopic extension, jet and vacuum units, etc.) as well as how to safely secure specialized equipment when not in use. Train in emergency response procedures, including the use of safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, reflective triangles, safety chains, safety equipment harnesses, and towing equipment). Learn emergency management techniques for extraordinary circumstances one may encounter while performing job functions including, collisions, mechanical failures, and natural disasters. Actively participate in the reporting of safety issues and concerns that are observed during essential job functions.
  • Customer Service: Receive training in tactful and courteous interactions with the public. Review basic City public services and operations in order to respond to general questions.
  • Route Familiarization: Develop and maintain working knowledge of City streets and current service routes. Receive hands-on training in effectively utilizing route optimization guides, global positioning systems, hard copied directional aids, maps, on-board diagnostics, etc. to follow routes and meet time points. Utilize communication system to contact dispatch and report current position and conditions, receive accident and incident information, and coordinate detours.
  • Driving Instruction: Learn and perform defensive driving techniques for urban and rural driving that include, but are not limited to, mirror usage and scanning techniques, monitoring blind spots, proper following distance, and safe acceleration and braking techniques. Learn and perform advanced maneuver techniques for driving commercial vehicles that include turning, parallel parking, alley docking, off-set backing, and straight-line backing. Receive hands-on training in operating commercial vehicles in a variety of weather and road conditions.

• Operate Commercial Vehicle During Regularly Scheduled Operations: Under supervision, fully operate a specialized commercial vehicle on regularly scheduled routes and operations through light to heavy City traffic, in a safe manner and in accordance with the City, county, state, and federal laws, as well as City rules and policies. In performance of all essential functions, demonstrate proficiency and understanding of all training material. Monitor equipment, weather conditions, and safety of other personnel. Actively participate in the reporting of safety issues and concerns that are observed during essential job functions.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.

• This is an entry-level training position that does not require prior experience.

• Must be able to obtain a Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Card from the City of Greenville.

• Motor vehicle record must meet the standards of City policy.

Driver's License Requirements

• Valid South Carolina Class D Driver's License at hire.

• Valid South Carolina Class B CLP, or the equivalent CLP from their state of residence within three (3) weeks of hire.

• Valid South Carolina Class B CDL with air brake provision within eight (8) weeks of hire, or the equivalent CDL from their state of residence.

• Please be advised: Applicants who do not intend to relocate to South Carolina, must reside in a neighboring State (Georgia or North Carolina) and must meet the same CDL requirements as residents of South Carolina. In addition, employees residing in a neighboring state are required to provide to the City of Greenville an annual Motor Vehicle Record from their states Department of Motor Vehicles at the sole cost of the employee.

Performance Requirements

Knowledge of:

• The safe operation of commercial vehicles and heavy equipment, including complete familiarization with there systems and safety features.

• Traffic rules, regulations, and laws and procedures for the safe operation of commercial vehicles and heavy equipment.

• Geography and roadways of an assigned route(s).

Ability to:

• Operate commercial vehicles and heavy equipment safely.

• Operate vehicle two-way radio system, and specialized on-board equipment.

• Operate and/or utilize all standard safety equipment installed in/on vehicles and equipment, including safety harnesses, restraints, fire extinguishers, and any other equipment required by federal, state, or local regulations.

• Conduct and document pre- and post-trip inspections.

• Properly climb up and down to enter and exit vehicle frequently throughout the day.

• Perform traffic flagging and understand signs and procedures.

• Operate joystick or button control systems.

• Read and understand maps and schedules.

• Read, understand and follow rules and regulations, vehicle operating procedures, vehicle laws, and written and oral instructions.

• Maintain effective working relationships and deal courteously and effectively with the public, fellow employees, and supervisors.

• Be able to work without immediate supervision in the field after completion of the initial training period.

• Report accidents, injuries, and incidents immediately.

• Maintain simple records and make basic mathematical calculations.

• Be punctual and maintain regular, predictable attendance.

• Be available to work a flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, holidays, and a reasonable amount of overtime.

Working Conditions

Primary Work Location: Vehicle cabin, outdoors (residential collection routes), and classroom environment.

Protective Equipment Required: Steel-toed shoes, hard hat, gloves (optional), safety vest, and safety glasses.

Environmental/Health and Safety Factors:

Frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards with the majority of work performed outside or with exposure to risk. Daily exposure to extreme temperature, respiratory hazards, noise and vibration, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards. Weekly exposure to chemical hazards. Seasonal exposure to wetness and/or humidity.

Physical Demands:

Constantly requires hearing, vision, talking, fine dexterity, handling/grasping, reaching, twisting, sitting, and foot controls. Frequently requires pushing/pulling, bending, climbing, kneeling, and walking. Occasionally requires carrying, lifting, crouching/stooping, balancing, and standing. Strength demands include frequently exerting up to 20 pounds and occasionally exerting 20-50 pounds.

Mental Demands:

Frequently requires tedious or exacting work, working in a noisy/distracting environment, and working closely with others as part of a team. Occasionally requires time pressures, frequent change of tasks, performing multiple tasks simultaneously, and working an irregular schedule or overtime.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance

The City of Greenville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. Prospective and current employees should contact Human Resources to request an ADA accommodation.

Disclaimer

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.