Heavy Equipment Operator – Water & Sewer (CDL)

City of Fort Smith; Fort Smith (AR); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Fort Smith seeks an Equipment Operator with experience in operating heavy construction equipment and street/utility repair. You will handle soil classification, trenching, and restoration while following safety regulations and AWWA standards.

The role includes on-site work in urban environments and participation in standby rotations. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, Class D license, and progression toward or attainment of Class A CDL with no air brake restriction.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Class D driver's license is required.
• Within 9 months of appointment, obtain Class A CDL with no air brake restriction.
• Equipment Operator I requires valid Class A CDL with no air brake restriction.
• Equipment Operator II (Sewer) requires valid Class B CDL with air brake and tanker endorsements; Class A within 9 months.
• Equipment Operator III requires Class A CDL with no air brake restriction; 2+ years heavy excavating equipment experience; Flagger certification.
• Preferred: Class IV Water Distribution License and related certifications (Excavation, Confined Space, etc.).
• All special skills may be acquired on the job.

Responsibilities

• Operate small and heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload equipment from trailers.
• Maintain equipment and perform preventive maintenance as needed.
• Drive between job sites and manage tooling in congested areas.
• Dig around various utility lines and prepare surfaces for street repairs.
• Train new maintenance personnel and operators as required.
• Classify soil types and follow safety guidelines for trenching.
• Work in busy urban environments and restore excavation sites.
• Participate in stand-by and callout rotations; maintain 40-minute response time.

Skills

Tools knowledge

Verbal communication

Written communication

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Office software

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Class D driver's license

Class A CDL with no air brake restriction (within 9 months)

Equipment Operator I – Class A CDL (no air brake)

Equipment Operator II – Class B CDL w/ air brake & tanker; Class A w/in 9 months

Equipment Operator III – Class A CDL; 2+ years heavy excavating; Flagger

Preferred: Class IV Water Distribution License

Certifications: Competent Person Excavation; Excavation Trench Safety; Confined Space Entry; Backhoe/Excavator; Asbestos

Job description

City of Fort Smith seeks an Equipment Operator with experience in operating heavy construction equipment and street/utility repair. You will handle soil classification, trenching, and restoration while following safety regulations and AWWA standards.

The role includes on-site work in urban environments and participation in standby rotations. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, Class D license, and progression toward or attainment of Class A CDL with no air brake restriction.