Heavy Equipment Operator II (St. John)

Government of the Virgin Islands

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the general supervision of a Superintendent, Roads & Highway or higher-level officer, this is intermediate level and lead work in operating heavy automotive equipment used in cutting, grading and surfacing of streets and roads. An employee in this class is required to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, graders, rollers, steam shovels and asphalt sprayers used in building and repairing streets and roads, and maintenance of road shoulders. Work is reviewed for compliance with instructions and for safe and efficient operation of the equipment.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution and two (2) years of experience in operating heavy automotive equipment used in road construction.
• OR Two (2) years as a Heavy Equipment Operator I or similar related classification.
• Knowledge of the operating principles and functions of heavy automotive equipment used in road construction, including the ability to understand and apply technical information related to machinery.
• Knowledge of the methods, procedures, and techniques required for safely and efficiently operating a variety of heavy automotive equipment, such as bulldozers, graders, road rollers, shovels, and machinery with specialized attachments.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards associated with heavy equipment operation and comprehensive understanding of safety precautions and protocols to ensure a safe working environment for oneself and others.
• Skill in the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment.
• Skill in performing manual tasks required for road construction projects.
• Ability to operate a wide range of heavy automotive equipment used in road construction proficiently and adapt to different types of machinery and tasks as project needs change.
• Ability to pay attention to detail, coordinate equipment efficiently, prioritize safety, and adapt to project demands.
• Ability to work extended hours outdoors in all types of weather conditions, demonstrating endurance, resilience, and reliability.
• Ability to instruct and mentor trainee personnel in proper methods and best practices for operating heavy equipment, fostering skill development and safety awareness among new operators.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members, providing updates on equipment status, project progress, and any issues encountered.
• Ability to respond quickly and resourcefully to unexpected challenges and emergencies in the field with minimal supervision.
• Work is supervised by a Superintendent, Roads & Highway, Project Engineer, or other designated supervisor.
• Initial instructions are provided at the start of assignments, after which the employee is expected to perform duties independently with minimal direct oversight.
• Guidance is available for unusual or complex situations, but the employee is expected to exercise judgment and initiative in resolving routine challenges in the field.
• Work is reviewed through inspections, reports, and discussions to ensure compliance with established procedures, safety standards, and the efficient operation of equipment.
• Guidelines include departmental policies, safety protocols, equipment manuals, and instructions provided by supervisors.
• While some procedures are clearly defined, operators must also interpret and adapt guidelines to address varying field conditions and project requirements.
• Sound judgment must be exercised to choose the best approach when established procedures do not fully address unusual or unforeseen circumstances.
• Work involves performing a variety of skilled tasks requiring the operation of multiple types of heavy equipment, often with specialized attachments.
• Assignments may involve complex terrain, changing weather conditions, and the need to respond to unforeseen challenges.
• Must coordinate equipment functions efficiently, prioritize safety, and adapt to shifting project demands.
• The purpose of the work is to accurately and efficiently operate heavy equipment to ensure project timelines are met, roadways are constructed to specification, and hazards are minimized for both crew members and the public.
• Work directly impacts the quality, safety, and progress of road construction and maintenance projects.
• The role demands technical proficiency, adaptability, initiative, and resourcefulness essential for maintaining quality and progress in road construction projects.
• Contacts are supervisors, fellow equipment operators, and other crew members involved in road construction projects.
• Occasional interactions may occur with contractors, inspectors, or the general public when working near active roadways or populated areas.
• Contacts are made to exchange information related to project assignments, receive or clarify instructions, coordinate work activities, report progress or equipment issues, and ensure adherence to safety and operational standards.
• Communication with others helps maintain efficient workflow and project safety.
• Work requires good health and physical agility, with frequent standing, walking, bending, climbing, and lifting of moderate to heavy objects.
• Operators must have the endurance to work extended hours outdoors in all weather conditions and the dexterity to operate complex machinery safely and efficiently.
• Work is performed primarily outdoors on active construction sites, often in inclement weather and varying terrain.
• The environment may involve exposure to dust, noise, and vibration, as well as moving machinery and traffic hazards.
• Strict adherence to safety protocols is required to minimize risks associated with the operation of heavy equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operates bulldozers to make initial cuts for pathways on steep slopes and hillsides.
• Operates grading machines to smooth rough roadbeds, spread gravel and other aggregates, and finish roadbeds in preparation for surfacing.
• Operates road rollers to smooth roadways in preparation for surfacing.
• Operates shovels to clear areas and load fill dirt.
• Leads a small number of semi-skilled and unskilled personnel engaged in road patching and other routine road maintenance activities.
• Operates heavy equipment with varied attachments, such as draglines, buckets, clamshells, pipe layers, and backhoes.
• Performs other related duties as required

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED