Water Equipment Operator

SUMMARY

Performs skilled work in the operation of heavy machinery and equipment, mainly a backhoe, including safe and proper excavation and backfilling of material for water pipeline installation and repair. Ability to operate in close proximity to other utility lines such as drainage, sewer, gas, and electric, which requires extreme precision and equipment operating knowledge. In the absence of superiors, the Operator is responsible for coordinating the work efforts of small crews.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Preparing and submitting various reports as directed by supervisor.
• Participating in all duties performed in the maintenance, installation and repair of water mains and services and related equipment.
• Using a backhoe to excavate material for pipeline installation and repair as well as other water system maintenance.
• Using other heavy equipment, as assigned, for maintenance of the Water Supply Board system assets.
• Performing routine maintenance and safety checks on PWSB equipment to ensure that it is maintained and operating safely and efficiently.
• Cleaning and maintaining equipment after each use.
• Ensuring that work is performed in a safe, efficient manner in accordance with all safety regulations and policies.
• Coordinating the work efforts of a small crew in the absence of crew leader.
• Participating in the repair of main leaks and breaks, service leaks, valve leaks, hydrant leaks and damaged hydrants on a 24-HOUR basis.
• Making service taps and installing new service lines.
• Operating hydrants and valves.
• Participating in the flushing of system mains by operating hydrants and valves and monitoring water quality.
• Prepare reports and sketches of various types of water installations and service records which are submitted to a supervisor.
• Using proper methods of chlorinating water mains to keep them free from contamination during construction.
• Performing related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and two years of full-time experience operating a backhoe and utility excavation. Must have knowledge of backhoe safety, as well as a knowledge of traffic laws involved in equipment operation. Should have a knowledge of the mechanical parts and operations of water mains and other water system appurtenances, and the methods and tools used for their repair, plus a working knowledge of OSHA excavation safety procedures. Applicants will be administered a written test and a practical evaluation on backhoe knowledge, safety procedures, and hands on operational skill prior to being allowed to operate PWSB equipment.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

· Rhode Island Grade 1D Public Water Supply Transmission and Distribution Operators License or said license to be obtained within one year of employment.

· OSHA Competent Person Certification within one year

· Valid Drivers’ License at time of application

· Heavy Equipment License for backhoe operation at time of application

· Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL) or employee must obtain CDL Class B through the City training program, a permit must be issued by the State within one year of employment.

Pay based on Experience and Grade Level License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to risk of electrical shock and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.89 - $29.49 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Water systems: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Heavy Equipment License for backhoe (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $24 - $29