Equipment Operator (Street)-$1,500 Sign-On Bonus

CityofHickory; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Hickory seeks a dedicated heavy equipment operator to handle labor-intensive tasks outdoors, including operating various vehicles and performing street repairs. Candidates must possess a high school diploma, a CDL Class B license or above, and relevant experience in similar roles. The role demands physical strength and the ability to perform basic math, with work often conducted in various weather conditions.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years experience in related roles or apprenticeship/internship.
• Ability to possess a valid North Carolina driver’s license.
• Knowledge of city policies on road construction and maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including tractors and backhoes.
• Perform street repair and maintenance tasks.
• Transport and load/unload equipment.

Skills

Communication

Mathematical skills

Concrete finishing

Operating backhoes

Operating tractors

Using hand and power tools

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

For doers and makers seeking a well-rounded community, Hickory is a bridge between Asheville and Charlotte at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains along Interstate 40, where a collective spirit of craftsmanship strengthens any endeavor with detail, artistry and quality.

Hickory, North Carolina, is a three-time All-America City on the Catawba River, approximately one hour east of Asheville and one hour north of Charlotte. More than 40,000 residents call Hickory their home, and it is the hub of a 350,000 metropolitan area. The city offers outstanding school systems, seven recreation facilities, two libraries, several golf courses, theaters, art museums, and eighteen parks. Beautiful Lake Hickory spans over 4,000 acres with many public access points.

Visit www.hickorync.gov/employment or www.hickorywellcrafted.com to learn more about Hickory and what makes it a Well Crafted City.

Qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetics, or disability. U.S. law requires proof of identity and right to work in the U.S.

Position Overview

• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• A valid CDL Class B driver’s license is required; CDL Class A is preferred.
• This position involves operating heavy equipment and performing manual labor related to department projects.
• Salary depends on qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Operate various equipment or vehicles, including tractors, snow plows, street flushers, loaders, backhoes, or street sweepers.
• Transport and load/unload equipment and materials.
• Perform street repair, maintenance, and construction tasks.
• Conduct general and preventive maintenance on vehicles, equipment, and tools.
• Mow rights-of-way; remove debris, snow, and ice hazards.
• Assist with concrete installation, including setting forms and finishing.
• Install and replace storm drains.
• Support setup and cleanup for special events.
• Assist other departments as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• After-hours work may be required during emergencies or weather events.

Qualifications

• Ability to read, write, and perform basic math at a high school level.
• Sufficient experience, typically 1-2 years, in related roles or completing an apprenticeship/internship.
• Ability to obtain or possess a valid North Carolina driver’s license for the vehicle or equipment operated.
• Knowledge of city policies on road construction, maintenance, and repair.
• Skill in operating equipment like backhoes, tractors, and dump trucks.
• Skill in using hand and power tools.
• Skill in concrete finishing.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The role requires frequent standing, walking, handling tools and equipment, reaching, climbing, stooping, kneeling, squatting, and crawling. Lifting, pushing, or pulling over 100 pounds is often necessary. Work is outdoors, exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, and weather conditions. Protective gear may be required. The employee must pass a Functional Prework Screen and is subject to a drug testing pool due to the position’s safety-sensitive nature.