Heavy/Light Equipment Operator

Highway Equipment Operator (Light & Heavy Classification)

(Opportunities available at both Light Equipment and Heavy Equipment levels)

Department: Highway
Job Codes: HWY/6 (Light) | HWY/5 (Heavy)

Labor Grade: 11 (Light)- $24.00-$37.01/ 12 (Heavy)- $25.15-$38.67
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Highway Operations Supervisor

Build the roads. Clear the storms. Keep Hanover moving.

The Town of Hanover is seeking skilled and motivated equipment operators to support the maintenance of streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and drainage systems. Whether you are an experienced heavy equipment operator or an emerging professional ready to grow into a higher classification, this is an opportunity to build a long-term municipal career maintaining the infrastructure that keeps our community safe and accessible year-round.

Positions may be filled at either the Light Equipment Operator or Heavy Equipment Operator level depending on qualifications and licensure.

Why Join Us & Benefits – Town of Hanover, NH

• Work year-round in a hands-on, team-oriented environment
• Play a direct role in maintaining safe roads and infrastructure
• Gain experience operating a wide range of municipal equipment
• Opportunities for growth and advancement within the Highway Division
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive municipal benefits, including:
  • Health and dental insurance
  • Participation in the New Hampshire Retirement System
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
  • Town-paid disability and life insurance
  • Ongoing training and certification opportunities

This position operates light and/or heavy equipment in the repair and maintenance of town streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and drainage systems. Operators support road construction, storm response, drainage improvements, and infrastructure maintenance projects. Successful performance contributes directly to a safe, well-maintained town infrastructure.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate equipment in the maintenance and repair of streets and drainage systems, including:
  • Dump trucks
  • Motor graders
  • Excavators
  • Front-end loaders
  • Backhoes
  • Bulldozers
  • Street sweepers
  • Brush chippers
  • Boom mowers
• Operate snow plows and sanding equipment during winter operations
• Install drainage pipes and catch basins
• Patch potholes and utility cuts
• Build forms; pour and finish concrete; lay brick and block
• Remove tree hazards
• Install and maintain road and street signs, including seasonal decorations
• Assist in traffic control at work sites
• Respond to customer service requests and complete work orders
• Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle and equipment inspections
• Maintain assigned equipment (oil changes, filters, blades, chains, etc.)
• Operate hand and power tools, including chainsaws
• Perform related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of street and drainage construction and maintenance techniques
• Knowledge of town safety policies, OSHA standards, and traffic regulations
• Knowledge of town geography, street names, and locations
• Skill in operating and maintaining heavy and light equipment
• Skill in using hand and power tools
• Ability to prioritize and organize work
• Strong oral and written communication skills

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Intermittent sitting, standing, bending, crouching, and stooping
• Frequent lifting of light and occasional heavy objects
• Use of equipment requiring dexterity
• Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions
• Exposure to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts
• Use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves required

Minimum Qualifications

Light Equipment Operator (HWY/6)

• High school diploma or equivalent
• One to two years of related experience or equivalent apprenticeship/internship
• Valid New Hampshire driver’s license
• Must satisfy all requirements for designation as a Heavy Equipment Operator within six months of hire, including obtaining a Class A CDL with Trailer Endorsement

Heavy Equipment Operator (HWY/5)

• High school diploma or equivalent
• One to two years of related experience operating heavy equipment
• Valid New Hampshire driver’s license
• Possession of or ability to obtain required CDL appropriate for equipment operated

Career Pathway Opportunity

The Town supports advancement from Light Equipment Operator to Heavy Equipment Operator. Employees hired at the Light level are expected to obtain required licensure and demonstrate competency to advance within six months. Training and development support through an in-house CDL training program is provided to help qualified employees progress.

Hours of Work:

40 hours a week: 7:00am- 3:30pm Mon-Fri

Union, Non-Exempt Position

Winter Storm cleanup hours may vary to include evenings and weekends.

When the roads are clear, the drainage works, and the town keeps moving — your work makes it happen.
If you’re ready to operate with purpose and build a career maintaining the backbone of Hanover, apply today and join the Highway team.

The Town of Hanover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.