Heavy Motor Equipment Operator

City of Chicopee; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 31,064 - 36,217; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Recurring sick time

Vacation days

Thirteen holidays per year

Retirement plan

Job summary

The City of Chicopee is seeking a Heavy Motor Equipment Operator for the DPW Forestry Department. In this full-time role, you will operate and maintain heavy equipment, assist with tree pruning and removal, and ensure safety compliance. Qualifications include valid Massachusetts CDL Class A and relevant hoisting licenses. The position offers a structured work schedule of 40 hours weekly with a competitive hourly wage of $22.55 to $26.29, along with various benefits including sick leave and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of arboricultural standards and regulations.
• Ability to operate log trucks and other heavy equipment safely.
• Experience assisting in tree removal and planting.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment and serve as crew leader when needed.
• Assist in removal and pruning of city trees.
• Maintain equipment in good working condition.
• Enforce safety regulations during operations.

Skills

Comprehensive knowledge of arboriculture policies

Proficiency in operating heavy equipment

Ability to rig equipment

Physical stamina

Supervisory skills

Education

Valid Massachusetts CDL Class A

MA 1C Hoisting License

MA 2A Hoisting License

International Society of Arboriculture Certification

First Aid and CPR Certification

Job description

Position

Heavy Motor Equipment Operator, DPW Forestry Department, Full-Time

Status & Salary

Status: Full-Time
Pay Grade: 10L, Step 5-8
Salary Range: $22.55 – $26.29 per hour
Schedule: Mon‑Fri, 40 hours per week

Certifications/Licenses Required

• Valid Massachusetts CDL Class A
• MA 1C Hoisting License
• MA 2A Hoisting License
• International Society of Arboriculture Certification or Massachusetts Qualified Tree Warden (Preferred)
• Electrical Hazard Awareness Program (EHAP) Certification (Preferred)
• First Aid and CPR Certified

Summary

The City of Chicopee’s DPW Forestry Department is looking to hire a Heavy Motor Equipment Operator. This position operates and maintains all types of heavy equipment/vehicles owned by the City, maintains fluid levels and greases equipment as required, and works under the supervision of the City Arborist who assigns work and areas of responsibility.

Essential Duties

• Operate log trucks and other heavy equipment; serve as crew leader when needed.
• Assist with removal and pruning of city trees.
• Operate all equipment used in forestry operations and maintain the city tree nursery.
• Assist with planting, transplanting, and establishing trees, bushes, and shrubs.
• Safely and proficiently operate all Forestry Department equipment and techniques.
• Maintain equipment and perform routine upkeep.
• Care for all city trees per arboricultural standards and the Public Shade Tree Laws.
• Perform aerial work for tasks such as Christmas light installation and aerial inspections of public facilities.
• Enforce safety regulations and city policies at all times and maintain communication with supervisors, subordinates, and the public.
• Participate in continuing education to maintain certifications and licenses, including snow operations.
• Maintain safety standards for employees and the public during Forestry Department operations and be available for overtime, especially during weather emergencies.
• Perform all other tasks assigned by the City Arborist and/or Superintendent of Public Works.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of state, federal, municipal policies and regulations related to arboriculture.
• Working knowledge and proficiency in operating all equipment used in Forestry Department operations.
• Ability to rig equipment and use related techniques.
• Physical ability and supervisory skills required.
• Ability to work effectively in emergencies and interpret plans and specifications.
• Independent work capability and experience with semi-skilled maintenance and manual tasks.
• Proficiency with hand tools, air tools, and hydraulic tools.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Willingness to perform heavy manual labor.

Benefits

Recurring sick time, vacation, thirteen holidays per year, retirement plan, and more (contingent upon employment status).

EEO Statement

The City of Chicopee is an equal opportunity employer.