DPW – Heavy Equipment Operator

Ludlow; Ludlow (MA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Ludlow is seeking a PW3 Heavy Equipment Operator to operate various vehicles and heavy equipment in support of the Public Works Department. The role is full-time (40 hours/week) with benefits, and may require irregular hours including nights and weekends during projects or emergencies.

Qualified candidates will have a Massachusetts Class B CDL with endorsements, a Class 2B Hoisting Engineer’s License (and a 4G Side Boom Mower License or ability to obtain within six months), plus strong

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of three years of Equipment Operator experience and/or training.
• Massachusetts Class B CDL with required endorsements.
• Massachusetts Class 2B Hoisting Engineer’s License or higher; ability to obtain 4G Side Boom Mower Hoisting Engineer’s License within six months.

Responsibilities

• Operate vehicles and heavy equipment as instructed by supervisor.
• Follow safety rules and use safety equipment.
• Comply with local and state vehicle laws while operating town vehicles.
• Inspect and report malfunctions or unsafe conditions.
• Perform general laborer duties as directed and maintain clean, safe work areas.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Emergency response

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

3 years Equipment Operator experience

Job description

The PW3 Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various vehicles and equipment and performing manual labor tasks. Work assignments may be carried out independently or as part of a crew supporting all divisions within the Department of Public Works (DPW). This is a full‑time, 40‑hours per week, benefited, union position. Hours may be irregular and include nights and weekends when necessary for construction projects and/or emergency operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Comprehend and follow work instructions and assignments; independently perform assignments for vehicle and heavy equipment operations as instructed by supervisor.
• Possess the physical ability and condition necessary to carry out required assignments.
• Operate all vehicles and equipment requiring a Massachusetts Class B CDL, Class 2B Hoisting Engineer’s License, and any other required endorsements, including dump trucks, snowplows, trucks and trailers, sanders and other related vehicles and equipment.
• Adhere to all applicable safety rules and procedures; use proper safety equipment or devices during work assignments.
• Comply with all local and state motor vehicle laws and regulations while operating Town‑owned vehicles and equipment.
• Maintain, repair and operate various vehicles and equipment during snowplowing operations and other declared emergencies.
• Conduct safety inspections of vehicles and equipment; report malfunctions, defects, or unsafe conditions of equipment to supervisor.
• Perform general laborer duties and other related work as required or directed by the supervisor or designee.
• Maintain work areas, vehicles, and equipment in a clean, safe, and orderly condition.
• Public Works employees are federally designated as First Responders, and therefore have a responsibility to maintain and repair damaged infrastructure and keep the public safe and secure during emergency situations.

MINIMUM RESPONSIBILITIES:

Qualified applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent; a minimum of three years of experience and/or equivalent training as an Equipment Operator; a valid Massachusetts Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with required endorsements; and a valid Massachusetts Class 2B or higher Hoisting Engineer’s License; a valid Massachusetts Class 4G Side Boom Mower Hoisting Engineer’s License, or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire. Experience with sewer collection and sewage pump station inspection and maintenance preferred. Applicants must also possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to work independently and on a crew; ability to make quick and sound decisions while performing work in emergency situations; ability to interact positively and effectively with coworkers, supervisors, Town officials and employees, and the general public; and ability to present themselves in a professional manner while representing the Town of Ludlow and the Department of Public Works (DPW).

Department

Public Works

Job Type

Full Time

$27-45 - $32.60

Hours

40 Hrs/Wk

Union

UPSEU

The Town of Ludlow is an (EOE) equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.