Heavy Equipment Operator

PURPOSE:

To provide efficient and safe operation of the cooperative's construction equipment, in the installation and maintenance of underground and overhead facilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Within the limits of approved board policies, operating guides and procedures, approved work plans and budgets and specific delegation from the District Superintendent, the Heavy Equipment Operator assumes the responsibility and has commensurate authority for the following activities, recognizing the continuing responsibility of this position for developing and maintaining a favorable Cooperative image consistent with the Cooperative Strategic Goals:

As a Heavy Equipment Operator:

1. Responsible for interpreting prints and completing construction and maintenance assignments; charging and returning all materials against proper work orders.
2. Operates all types of automotive equipment, including, but not limited to, trucks equipped with winches, hole digging and pole setting derricks, hydraulic aerial bucket devices, trenchers and backhoe equipment.
3. Directs the work of one or two persons while operating equipment or may direct the work of additional persons while equipment is operated by a helper.
4. Responsibly enforces safety rules for the protection of assigned crew and public, assures proper use of traffic warning devices when working on or near highways; also responsible for reporting all accidents to supervisor.
5. Assist in completing work orders and work assignment in a safe and efficient way, so crews can do their part of the job to get power to the consumer.
6. Assists in training and in the evaluation of those assigned to crew.
7. Responsible for assigned vehicle and/or equipment and completes mileage, daily inspection, and/or safety reports as required.
8. Patrols lines while driving throughout cooperative service area and reports line conditions in need of correction.
9. Keeps informed of all operational and construction specification changes.
10. Uses two-way radio in accordance with cooperative and FCC Regulations.
11. In addition to these responsibilities, may be assigned to perform other duties.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the Cooperative electrical system, communications, contacts, and policies of the Cooperative.
• Knowledge of OSHA, RUS, and AVECC policies and procedures.
• Requires leadership ability to effectively communicate with personnel.
• Must have necessary skills to meet with and relate to the public, members, and employees in a professional manner.
• Requires excellent oral and written communication skills.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Outdoor work required in a variety of weather conditions. Normal working hours will be scheduled Monday through Friday between the limits of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., work outside of normal work hours will be required.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

This job requires reading, writing, and mathematics; therefore, a high school diploma or the equivalent is preferred, but not required.

Must have two years of experience as Groundman Truckdriver or equivalent experience in a related classification being knowledgeable of construction equipment and vehicles. Must hold a valid Arkansas CDL.

Successful applicant must be in good physical condition and have all faculties necessary to meet position requirements and present a neat favorable professional appearance.