Equipment Operator - Water Services

Portland Water District; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 37,952 - 39,950; Full time

Job summary

A municipal water authority in Portland, Oregon is seeking an experienced operator to assist transmission and distribution crews. Responsibilities include operating backhoes for excavation and main installation, performing preventive maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Candidates must possess a valid Class A Driver’s License and have experience with construction equipment repair. The role offers a probationary hourly rate of $27.55, transitioning to $29.00 upon regular employment. This is a crucial position for maintaining infrastructure and requires teamwork and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid State of Maine Class A Driver’s License and a clean driving record.
• Experience repairing automotive and construction equipment, especially diesel engines and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to obtain Class I Water Distribution Operator’s License within 24 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate backhoes for excavation and pipe-laying.
• Perform preventive maintenance on construction equipment.
• Assist construction crews with labor tasks.

Skills

Operation of backhoes

Troubleshooting construction equipment

Team communication and problem-solving

Education

High school graduation or equivalent

Tools

Hydraulic crawler excavators

Diesel engines

Job description

Hourly rate $27.55 probationary rate -$29.00 regular rate Requires CDL

Purpose/Customer Impact

Assist transmission and distribution crews in excavation, main installation, back-filling and loading operations using hydraulic crawler excavators.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to: Transmission/Distribution Supervisor
Direct Reports: None

Interrelationships

Regular contact with construction crews and supervisory personnel.

Essential Accountabilities

• Safely operate backhoes in opening trenches, laying pipe, back-filling and loading operations.
• Perform preventive and light maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Assist construction crews by cooperatively performing labor tasks.
• Diagnose and repair automotive and construction equipment mechanical problems.
• Perform standby duty.
• Perform essential accountabilities in accordance with all Federal, State and District safety regulations.
• Perform other related duties, as required.

Essential Job Functions

Sitting, standing, bending, reaching, climbing, crawling, squatting, kneeling, twisting, driving, walking, lifting(max 75lbs), visual accuracy, clear verbal and written communication, repetitive hand/wrist motion, keyboard usage.

Minimum Requirements

An individual must be able to perform Essential Job Functions and Accountabilities satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
• Possess a valid State of Maine Class A Driver’s License, with a clean driving record.
• Possess previous experience repairing automotive and construction equipment, with emphasis on diesel engines and hydraulic circuitry.
• One year of experience in the operation of backhoes and proven experience in the operation of equipment in a pipe-laying construction environment.
• Ability to investigate, adjust and perform necessary maintenance on assigned equipment. Skill in troubleshooting construction equipment.
• Ability to safely and skillfully operate the above noted equipment.
• Ability to read and comprehend operation and maintenance manuals for assigned equipment.
• Ability to function in a team environment, with associated positive communication and problem solving skills and the commitment to share skills and ideas with colleagues.
• Ability to meet approved physical and medical standards.
• Obtain Class I Water Distribution Operator’s License within 24 months of hire.