Motor Equipment Operator III

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:  Performs work of exceptional difficulty in the operation of heavy motorized equipment and performs a variety of supervisory tasks in connection with such operations; does related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:  An employee in this class operates heavy, multi-purpose equipment, such as cranes, which require a high degree of skill and manipulative ability.  Operation of the equipment also requires unusual skill to do precision work such as making fine grades and ability to operate the heavy equipment so as not to impede the progress of related operations while maintaining constant attention to safety in order to prevent accidents.  Standard procedures are followed, and the work is inspected periodically for safety and economy of operation.  This class differs from that of Motor Equipment Operator II since a much higher degree of skill is necessary to perform the work required.   For example, operations may involve equipment with a high lifting capability where a large number of controls govern a wide variety of motions that requires a high degree of judgment and skill to avoid damage to equipment or materials handled. It may also involve equipment where a high degree of coordination and frequent adjustment of attachments are necessary because the nature of the operation requires a considerable degree of accuracy to accomplish the finished work by reading prints and grade stakes.  This employee must have a thorough knowledge of heavy motorized equipment to be able to instruct trainees in the proper use of the equipment and in maintenance techniques and procedures.  This employee may serve as a working supervisor, supervising the work of Maintenance and Construction Workers and other equipment operators.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)

Operates all heavy equipment and vehicles in accordance with the Department of Transportation’s Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A) guidelines;

Operates a crane to lift heavy objects, sets culverts, digs, or back fills excavations and uses attachments such as a backhoe, clamshell, or drag line to load vehicles and clear drainage ditches;

Operates a backhoe and gradall to dig excavations and trenches in connection with heavy construction where grade stakes are used;

Operates a bulldozer for fine grading work where grade stakes are used and operates a carryall in connection with fine grading;

Operates a grader to level road surfaces and to do other fine grading where grade stakes are used;

Operates a tractor-trailer unit (lowboy) to haul heavy motorized equipment or material;

Operates plow vehicles;

Operates construction vehicles when not operating heavy motorized equipment;

Inspects, cleans, lubricates, changes oil, and makes minor repairs on equipment;

Supervises Maintenance and Construction Workers in the performance of their work;

Instructs trainees in the operation of heavy motorized equipment;

May perform tasks of a Maintenance and Construction Worker when not engaged as an operator;

Promotes an ongoing attitude of dedication to excellent public service and ensures that external and internal customers are provided with the highest quality of service;

Operates a personal computer and other related equipment in the course of the work.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:  Thorough knowledge and skill in the operation of heavy motorized equipment in all types of weather conditions; good knowledge of standard practices, methods, and materials used in construction and maintenance projects; good knowledge of traffic rules and regulations; good knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of working with heavy equipment; ability to follow oral and written directions; ability to do fine grading work; ability to read elevation and construction plans; ability to make minor repairs and adjustments to heavy motorized equipment; ability to supervise maintenance and construction personnel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  At least three (3) years' experience in the operation of heavy motorized equipment, and possession of a high school diploma or GED; or an equivalent combination of experience, education or training directly related to the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Preference will be given for at least one (1) year experience in the operation of a crane, fuel truck and/or lowboy tractor trailer.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:   Must pass a Class II County physical examination, background check, and periodic DOT physical examinations as mandated by the Department of Transportation. Possession of a valid commercial driver's license Class A (CDL-A) or its equivalent is also required.   Endorsements to the CDL-A license regarding air brakes, tank vehicles, and hazardous materials may be required dependent upon the job duties and responsibilities of a particular position.