Equipment Operator

State of Indiana•Henryville, IN

72d•Onsite

About The Position

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education. Clark State Forest is the oldest state forest in Indiana and encompasses over 25,000 acres and 100 miles of recreational trails. Clark State Forest was used as an experimental forest for many years. More than 150 experimental tree plantings, established from 1905 through 1935, can still be observed in many areas throughout the forest. Activities include biking, camping, fishing, gun range, hiking, horse riding, and more. This position reports to Clark State Forest and serves as the heavy equipment operator for six state forests and a tree nursery located in southern Indiana. The position requires Class A CDL and experience operating small and large bulldozers and excavators, and other types of smaller equipment such as skidsteers, road graders, tractors, zero turn or side-hill mowers (i.e., dams), and other equipment as needed. The position rotates among the state forests hauling the necessary equipment on a semi. The job sites are mostly rural forested areas of the state forest. Work includes improving existing fire lanes in rugged terrain, building new fire lanes, installing log yards for upcoming timber sales, using fecon style equipment to remove brush, dredging lakes, demolition of structures for rehab or new construction, culvert replacements, and more. All job sites are located on state forest property and guidance provided by the state forest manager. The position works 9-9.5 hours daily Monday – Thursday (4-day work weeks) for a total of 37.5 hours. Overnight may occur using one of several overnight rooms located at each state forest.

Requirements

Must have the ability to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL – Class A) within 6 months of employment. The Class A CDL must be retained for the duration of employment as an Equipment Operator.
Working knowledge and skill in the safe operation of the necessary light and heavy equipment.
Working knowledge of various safety rules and regulations, including the use of the different sets of controls and various attachments.
Knowledge of the mechanics of this equipment to maintain and repair it when necessary.
Knowledge of, and ability to use, proper tools in the performance of duties.
Knowledge of traffic laws as they apply to light and heavy equipment.
If this role is with the AGO, you must complete the IDOC training to supervise an IDOC work crew.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

A degree is not required.
At least two (2) years of operating heavy equipment experience applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.

Responsibilities

Operate equipment such as backhoes, tractors, mowers, and heavy pumps to dig drainage ditches or dig out ponds, etc.
Ensure equipment is maintained and prepared for use.
Ensure operator maintenance such as inspecting, cleaning, and lubricating equipment, preventive maintenance, adjustments, and changing of operating attachments is accomplished.
Assist in coordinating, scheduling, and delivering equipment, vehicles, and materials for maintenance and construction projects or other approved activities.
Operate snow removal equipment such as plows and rotary blowers.
Perform routine duties such as cutting down trees, cleaning paths in the woods, and raking leaves.
Prepare areas for roads, walks, and parking by ditching, back sloping, level blading, scarifying, using motorized grader, or other equipment as necessary and available.
Perform site cleaning, excavation, backfilling, and similar work.
Workday attendance at assigned worksite(s) is an essential function of this position.

Benefits

Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to: 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
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