Equipment Operator Public Works Operator I 2026-03

Bloomfieldnm; Bloomfield (NM); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Bloomfield, NM is seeking an Equipment Operator I for their Public Works Department. This full-time role requires a high school diploma and one year of related experience. Responsibilities include operating heavy equipment for water, wastewater, and street systems. Candidates must be able to work in hazardous conditions and may need to obtain certain certifications. Work is on-site, ensuring safe and reliable public infrastructure.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• One year of experience in construction, equipment operation, or related work.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment such as dump trucks and loaders.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment for construction, repair, and maintenance of water systems.
• Perform patching, drainage maintenance, and snow/ice removal.
• Assist with installation and maintenance of pipes and valves.

Skills

Basic knowledge of road construction

Understanding of safety standards for heavy equipment

Knowledge of water and sewer line installation

Ability to operate heavy equipment

Ability to perform physical labor

Education

High school diploma or GED

One year of experience in construction or equipment operation

Job description

Equipment Operator I – Public Works

City of Bloomfield, NM
Full-time • On-site • Public Works Department

About the Job

The City of Bloomfield is seeking a dependable, motivated Equipment Operator I to join our Public Works team. This position performs a variety of skilled entry-level duties involving the operation of heavy and light equipment to support the construction, repair, maintenance, and replacement of City water, wastewater, and street systems.

You will work under the general supervision of the Operations Superintendent and play an important role in maintaining safe, reliable public infrastructure for our community.

Responsibilities

Water Distribution

• Operate equipment used for construction, repair, and maintenance of water and storm drainage systems
• Install and repair water service connections, fire hydrants, meters, meter cans, and valves
• Repair water mains and leaks; thaw frozen lines; locate shut-off valves
• Assist with installation and maintenance of pipes, regulators, and PRVs

Wastewater Collection

• Operate equipment used for wastewater collection system maintenance
• Use jet-rodder equipment to clean and maintain sewer lines

Streets

• Operate heavy equipment such as dump trucks, loaders, dozers, backhoes, and snowplows
• Transport and place materials (sand, gravel, dirt, etc.)
• Perform patching, drainage maintenance, snow/ice removal, and debris collection
• Install and maintain street signs; set up barricades and traffic control

Other Duties

• Perform general maintenance and related tasks as assigned

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED
• One (1) year of experience in construction, equipment operation, or related work
• OR an equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge & Skills

• Basic knowledge of road construction, drainage systems, and underground utilities
• Understanding of safety standards for heavy equipment and trenching
• Knowledge of water and sewer line installation, repair, and maintenance
• Ability to operate heavy equipment such as dump trucks, loaders, backhoes, snowplows, and related tools
• Ability to perform physical labor, follow instructions, and maintain effective working relationships

Special Requirements

• Class B CDL may be required
• On-call availability (24/7)
• May be required to obtain Level I Wastewater Collections and Level I Water Distribution certification within one year of hire

Work Environment

• Frequent exposure to hazardous conditions (gases, raw sewage, electrical hazards, confined spaces)
• Exposure to extreme weather, noise, dust, fumes, and moving equipment
• Requires stooping, lifting, walking, climbing, and working in confined spaces
• Requires ability to communicate effectively and follow detailed instructions