Equipment Operator III

Department: Public Works

Reports to: Superintendent

Classification: Non-Exempt Grade 5

Effective Date: November 2025

SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator III reports to the Public Works Superintendent. Work is performed in the operating of a variety of light and heavy equipment, such as backhoe, grader, excavator and bulldozer. May be required to perform duties of Equipment Operator 1 or Laborer.

EXAMPLES OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Functions as crew leader over equal and lower grade operators/ workers.
• Responsible for accurately locating gas lines, electrical lines and high-pressure water lines before breaking ground.
• Lay tile, build catch basins and head walls and assess affect of grades and elevation during project.
• Operates a variety of heavy and light equipment in a safe manner.
• Responsible for maintaining awareness of crew locations during operation of heavy equipment.
• Maintains records of equipment, personnel and materials used on specific projects.
• Drives truck to various locations as required.
• Ensures that trucks are properly loaded and assists with loading and unloading trucks.
• Inspects equipment/vehicle for mechanical or safety problems and notifies Shop Supervisor or Public Works Superintendent.
• Submits daily worksheets and maintenance reports as required.
• Cleans tools, equipment, vehicles and the shop area.
• Required to work overtime as needed.
• Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Requires knowledge of practices used in the operation of light/heavy equipment, including maintenance.
• Knowledge of techniques and methods commonly used in street maintenance such as patching potholes and rip-rapping for erosion control.
• Must have understanding of grades and elevations as they pertain to streets and storm drainage.
• Able to plan and direct the work of crew members.
• Knowledge of the care and use of motor vehicles.
• Knowledge of the materials and equipment used in general maintenance work.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions.
• Ability to work independently and make decisions.
• Knowledge of street system and physical layout of the City.
• Knowledge of State and City traffic regulations.
• Knowledge of City and department rules, regulations and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with associates, representatives of other agencies and the general public.
• Ability to maintain a good attendance record.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma or GED.
• Experience in the operation of a variety of light and heavy equipment required.
• Must possess a valid Tennessee B license.
• Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

ADA REQUIREMENTS

Physical Requirements - Physical demand requirements are at levels for those of active work. Regular performance of heavier tasks such as walking over rough or uneven surfaces; bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching above shoulder level and working in confined spaces; lifting or carrying weights of twenty to fifty pounds and occasionally very heavy items up to one hundred pounds; may involve the complex operation of gasoline, electric or diesel powered machinery or shop equipment requiring the manipulation of multiple controls, fine adjustments or both. May work in adverse environmental conditions and hazardous work conditions.

Sensory Requirements - Tasks require visual perception and discrimination including color and depth. Tasks require perception and discrimination of odor and sound.