Equipment Operator - Petersburg, VA

Xylem Tree Experts•Petersburg, VA

About The Position

The Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. The role supports daily crew activities, equipment preparation and maintenance, debris cleanup, and protection of employees and the public. Equipment Operators have no direct reports. Storm work may be required, including travel out of town for storm restoration when needed. This is a safety-sensitive position requiring the employee to pass a background check and drug screen as required for the job.

Requirements

  • Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries is preferred.
  • High school diploma or equivalent education is preferred.
  • Knowledge of the daily maintenance and safe operation of all equipment used.
  • Physical strength and good balance to climb into and around mobile equipment; ability to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day and maintain balance over uneven terrain.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions.
  • Ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR.
  • Ability to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Good vision and attentiveness.
  • Must have and maintain a driver’s license if hired for a driving position; must have and maintain a CDL and DOT Medical Card to operate any truck over 26,000 lbs.
  • Ability to write, read, and comprehend written and verbal job instructions and information.
  • Ability to communicate with others.
  • Endurance to perform duties throughout a standard eight- or ten-hour day.
  • Ability to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed.
  • Must pass a background check and drug screen as required for this safety-sensitive position.
  • Must meet I-9 work authorization requirements; the employer participates in E-Verify.

Nice To Haves

  • Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries.
  • High school diploma or equivalent education.

Responsibilities

  • Follow and help enforce safe practices and rules.
  • Assist in preparing equipment and materials for each day’s work at the Foreperson’s direction.
  • Operate equipment as directed by the Foreperson.
  • Help maintain and repair equipment and tools used in operations.
  • Assist other crew members in daily activities and take a leadership role when required.
  • Clean up and dispose of debris.
  • Set up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, and similar protections for employees and the public.
  • Keep informed about new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee-relations policies and practices.
  • Track and report mileage to the Foreperson.
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed.

Benefits

  • Health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental.
  • Option to enroll in a 401K.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO); eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position and may vary for Union hires.
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