Heavy Equipment Operator

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of Pad Foot, steel drum & pneumatic rollers. This position distributes, breaks down, compresses and gives a finished surface to cooling asphalt. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Paving Superintendent and is evaluated by the care exercised in the operation and maintenance of equipment and the completeness and efficiency with which assignments are performed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This list is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

• Experience operating paving equipment such as front-end loaders, motor graders, backhoes, rollers, asphalt zipper, and paver.
• Operates the roller and other heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
• Perform daily maintenance and safety checks of equipment.
• Conducts pre-operation inspections of equipment, identifies equipment problems and reports problems for repairs.
• Safely operate roller in successive overlapping passes over surfaces to be compacted, rolling subgrade and asphalt to desired compaction and smoothness.
• Determine speed and direction of machine, based on knowledge of compressibility of material under changing temperatures, so that ridges do not form by excessive pressure.
• Operate finish roller in successive overlapping passes to apply final finish and remove imperfections with a finish roller.
• Conducts pre-operation inspections of equipment, identifies equipment problems and reports problems for repairs.
• Performs routine preventative maintenance of street paving equipment.
• Completes daily schedules in allotted time.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.
• Observes all safety regulations and communicates potential safety hazards.
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED & EXERCISED

• General direction is received from the Paving Superintendent/Paving Manager.
• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES

Knowledge of:

• The operation and maintenance requirements of heavy equipment and tractor trailer combinations.
• Safety procedures and practices in the operation and maintenance of heavy and light equipment.
• Applicable traffic laws, ordinances and regulations.
• The hazards and safety rules and precautions of operating heavy equipment and tractor trailer combinations.

Ability to:

• Operate motor grader setting grades.
• Operate double drum roller with through knowledge of rolling patterns for hot mix.
• Operate paver and be able to run screed.
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions in the English language.
• Work independently in the performance of duties.
• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the public.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to the incumbent or others.
• Clean equipment daily using appropriate materials.

Additional requirements:

• This classification requires the use of City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record.
• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending upon work location, assignment, or shift.

Education & Experience:

• High School diploma or General Equivalency Degree (GED); or ten plus years paving experience.

Licenses, Certificates & Registrations:

• Valid Texas Driver License

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to handle and feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to climb. The employee frequently moves items weighing up to 25 pounds and occasionally moves items weighing up to 100 pounds. Employee frequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate information. Positions self to perform essential functions. Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions are primarily outside with exposure to temperature variations; occasional exposure to oily and damp/wet surfaces, dust, high noise areas, unfavorable fumes and vapors and hazardous chemicals.

SAFETY SENSITIVITY

This position is classified as a safety-sensitive position due to the following:

The employee is expected to operate heavy equipment, and their actions can affect the safety of coworkers and the surrounding environment.