Lead Gas Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator

City-of-Richmond,-Va; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Richmond seeks a Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator to maintain and operate advanced heavy machinery used in gas infrastructure installation and repair. The role includes acting as lead operator in the absence of supervision and ensuring safe, compliant field operations.

You will interpret drawings, mentor junior crew, and respond to emergencies while coordinating with the supervisor and planning daily tasks. Requires strong equipment knowledge and safety focus.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Six (6) years of relevant work experience, including at least two (2) years of experience at the Equipment Operator, Principal level.
• Training in the equipment used at this level of assignment.
• An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification.

Responsibilities

• Operates heavy construction and specialized equipment including excavators, backhoes, vacuum excavation units, and fusion equipment for gas infrastructure installation and repair.
• Serves as a subject matter expert on equipment operation and gas utility construction procedures, ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency.
• Trains and mentors junior equipment operators and crew members in safe operation and SOP adherence.
• Oversees and performs complex field procedures such as bagging for gas control, live main tapping, pipe fusion (PE), and emergency isolation.
• Responds to critical gas leaks and emergencies, coordinating repair activities with minimal supervision.
• Interprets drawings and maps to avoid underground conflicts.
• Maintains compliance with PHMSA/OSHA standards.
• Keeps logs and equipment reports, ensures tools are available and functional.

Skills

Leadership

Equipment operation

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Safety compliance

Communication

Map reading

Team mentoring

Education

High School or GED

6 years relevant work experience

Experience at Equipment Operator, Principal level (2+ years)

Tools

CDL with endorsements

NIMS IC 700

PHMSA certifications

Virginia driver’s license

Job description

The City of Richmond seeks a Utilities Heavy Equipment Operator to maintain and operate advanced heavy machinery used in gas infrastructure installation and repair. The role includes acting as lead operator in the absence of supervision and ensuring safe, compliant field operations.

You will interpret drawings, mentor junior crew, and respond to emergencies while coordinating with the supervisor and planning daily tasks. Requires strong equipment knowledge and safety focus.