Heavy Equipment Operator - Road and Bridge

Pitkin County; Aspen (CO); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Pitkin County is seeking a skilled heavy equipment operator to maintain roads and rights of way. The role involves operating various heavy machinery, performing maintenance tasks, and ensuring safety standards. Candidates should have relevant experience and a valid Colorado Driver’s License. The position may require irregular hours and heavy lifting.

Qualifications

• Up to 1-year experience operating heavy equipment.
• 1-3 years of responsible heavy equipment experience.
• 3+ years of experience for Level III.

Responsibilities

• Operates heavy equipment including loaders, snowplows, and excavators.
• Performs general road maintenance and snow removal.
• Completes administrative tasks and may act as a first responder.

Skills

Organizing

Prioritizing

Effective verbal communication

Effective written communication

Equipment troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or GED

CDL Class B with Tanker endorsement

CDL Class A with Tanker endorsement

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

Position Overview

Operates a variety of heavy equipment and trucks to maintain Pitkin County Roads and Rights of Way, ensuring safe and efficient travel within Pitkin County.

Level I and II Responsibilities

1. Operates heavy equipment including loaders, snowplows, excavators, and haul trucks.
2. Performs general road and grounds maintenance, snow removal, and loads trucks with soils and aggregates. Operates various equipment and works around utilities such as Gas, Electric, Water, and Sewer.
3. Assists in digging ditches and trenches with hand tools, hoists materials, and performs routine inspections and preventive maintenance on equipment. Cleans equipment and helps install and maintain traffic control devices.
4. Plows snow and salts roads following departmental policies, adhering to safety standards.
5. Completes administrative tasks, including email correspondence, asset management, and participating in meetings and training.
6. May act as a first responder in emergencies.
7. Supports positive public relations by demonstrating courteous behavior, maintaining confidentiality, and performing other duties as assigned.

Level III Responsibilities

• May serve as lead or supervisor in the absence of the operations supervisor or manager.

Position Progression

This position follows a sequence:

• Level I: Up to 1-year experience operating heavy equipment; High school diploma or GED; Valid Colorado Driver’s License.
• Level II: 1-3 years of responsible heavy equipment experience; CDL Class B with Tanker endorsement; Equipment-specific training certificates; ICS 200.
• Level III: 3+ years of experience; CDL Class A with Tanker endorsement; ICS 300; Additional training certificates; Road Scholar 1 certification.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of:

• Safety policies and procedures for construction.
• Inventory management.
• Proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Equipment troubleshooting and maintenance practices.

Skills in:

• Organizing and prioritizing work.
• Handling multiple tasks under pressure, including emergencies.
• Using Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Establishing effective working relationships.
• Operating tools and equipment safely.

Additional Information

• Work is performed throughout Pitkin County, with exposure to dangerous equipment, weather, and hazardous substances.
• Irregular hours, weekends, and holidays may be required.
• Lifting up to 80 lbs. may be necessary.

The employee must be able to perform essential functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be provided if requested, unless it causes undue hardship. The employer may modify or assign other duties as needed.