Heavy Equipment Operator I (Departmental Promotion ONLY)

Under the general supervision of a Superintendent, Roads & Highway or higher-level officer,
this is entry-level skilled work in operating heavy automotive equipment used in cutting,
grading and surfacing of streets and roads.

An employee in this class is required to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers,
cranes, graders, rollers, steam shovels and asphalt sprayers used in building and repairing
streets and roads, and maintenance of road shoulders. Work is reviewed for adherence to
specific instructions and guidelines.

Operates small and large bulldozers to prepare terrain for construction of roads or buildings.

Operates grass cutters to maintain road shoulders and cuts bushes and brush along roads and
highways.

Operates road rollers or graders in preparing roadways for surfacing.

Operates large cranes and tractors in moving or hauling equipment or crates.

Performs maintenance and minor repairs to equipment.

Performs other related work as assigned.High School Diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
                                                             OR
Two (2) years of experience in operating heavy road construction equipment.
 FACTOR 1- KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
Knowledge of the principles and techniques required in operating heavy road construction and
maintenance equipment.
Knowledge of the methods and procedures used in clearing terrain and in preparing roadways for
construction and surfacing.
Knowledge of the operating principles of heavy automotive equipment.
Skill in the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, graders,
backhoes and power shovels, and grass cutters.
Skill in performing manual tasks required for road construction projects.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members, providing updates on
equipment status and any issues encountered.
Ability to respond quickly and resourcefully to unexpected challenges and emergencies in the
field with minimal supervision.
Ability to work long hours outdoors under varying weather conditions.

FACTOR 2- SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
Work assignments are given with clear instructions and close supervision. The Heavy Equipment
Operator I typically reports to a Heavy Equipment Operator II or a Highway Project Supervisor,
who monitors progress, provides guidance, and reviews work during and after completion to
ensure compliance with established procedures and safety standards.

FACTOR 3- GUIDELINESS
Guidelines include standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and instructions provided by
supervisors. Situations requiring judgment or deviation from established methods are referred to
higher-level personnel for direction.

FACTOR 4- COMPLEXITY
Work is generally routine and repetitive, involving the operation of heavy equipment for basic
construction and maintenance activities. Complexity is limited, as assignments are straightforward
or have been prepared by more experienced operators.

FACTOR 5- SCOPE AND EFFECT
The purpose of the work impacts the safe and efficient construction, maintenance, and repair of
streets and roads. Proper execution ensures well-maintained roadways and contributes to the
overall functioning of public infrastructure.

FACTOR 6- PERSONAL CONTACTS
Contacts are supervisors, other operators, and occasionally with semi-skilled or unskilled workers.
Interaction is limited to work-related instructions, coordination, and reporting.

FACTOR 7- PURPOSE OF CONTACTS
Contacts are made to receive instructions, exchange information about work assignments, report
progress, and ensure tasks are completed safely and according to guidelines.

FACTOR 8- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Work requires good health and physical agility. It involves operating heavy equipment for
extended periods, often outdoors, which may require lifting, bending, and working in varying
weather conditions.

FACTOR 9- WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed primarily outdoors on streets, roads, and construction sites. Employees are
exposed to noise, dust, and weather extremes. Safety precautions and protective equipment are
required.