Heavy Equipment Operator

County of Marathon•Wausau, WI

About The Position

The Heavy Equipment Operator safely and efficiently operates large construction equipment, heavy trucks, or comparable automotive equipment. Duties may include routine servicing and light maintenance of assigned equipment, and operation of higher-grade equipment in accordance with established procedures. Work follows orders, instructions, and accepted trade practices, while requiring the operator to adapt techniques to conditions and exercise independent judgment, particularly when a Foreman is absent. Operators may serve as lead workers directing lower-level employees. General supervision is provided by a supervisor, with the frequency of review varying according to the operator’s proficiency; work assignments are received directly from a supervisor. Typical equipment and assignments include bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, large end loaders, and asphalt pavers. Work includes directing lower-level employees on assigned projects, applying best management practices in construction and road maintenance, and grading roadways to grade with a motor grader. Other duties may be assigned. The position requires at least one year of relevant paid work experience. High school graduation or equivalent is preferred. Applicants must possess a valid Wisconsin Class A CDL without air-brake restrictions, or pass the required Class A CDL written exams and obtain a Class A CDL without air-brake restrictions and a tanker endorsement. The starting pay is $27.61 per hour, plus Marathon County benefits. The role involves high physical demands and outdoor work, including work in adverse weather conditions.

Requirements

At least one year of relevant paid work experience.
Possess a valid Wisconsin Class A CDL without air-brake restrictions, or pass the required Class A CDL written exams and obtain a Class A CDL without air-brake restrictions and a tanker endorsement.
Considerable knowledge of the capabilities, limitations, and hazards of assigned equipment.
Considerable skill in operating assigned equipment.
Ability to work effectively and perform routine operations without close supervision.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to operate trucks and equipment effectively, safely, and efficiently.
Ability to accurately calculate and record material quantities and legibly document work activities.
Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions and perform moderately heavy manual work.
Ability to recognize equipment in need of maintenance.
Ability to understand grade stakes, use a level, and properly set grades.
Ability to contribute to a positive work culture that fosters customer service and teamwork.
Ability to learn the geography of the assigned work area.

Nice To Haves

High school graduation or equivalent is preferred.
Knowledge of proper safety precautions when using power equipment.
Skill in operating assigned winter road maintenance equipment.
Knowledge of Force Computerized Equipment on snow equipment.
Knowledge of brine-making operations.
Knowledge of highway construction and maintenance principles and practices.
For some positions, knowledge of reading blueprints and using them to complete construction and maintenance tasks.

Responsibilities

Safely and efficiently operate assigned large construction equipment, heavy trucks, or comparable automotive equipment.
Perform routine servicing and light maintenance of assigned equipment.
Operate higher-grade equipment when assigned, in accordance with established procedures.
Adapt operating techniques to changing conditions and exercise independent judgment, particularly when a Foreman is absent.
Serve as a lead worker by directing lower-level employees on assigned projects.
Use best management practices in construction or road maintenance work, including ditching and roadway construction.
Grade roadways to grade using a motor grader.
Operate equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, large end loaders, asphalt pavers, and winter road maintenance equipment.
Accurately calculate and record material quantities and document work activities.
Recognize when equipment needs maintenance and perform assigned work safely and efficiently.