Heavy Equipment Operator – Vacuum/Jetter

Toho Water Authority • Kissimmee, FL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Heavy Equipment Operator operates and maintains specialized heavy equipment, primarily a combination vacuum/jetter truck, to support cleaning, maintenance, and operation of Toho Water Authority wastewater lift stations and collection system infrastructure. The role performs vacuum cleaning, high-pressure water jetting, and removal of sludge, grease, sediment, debris, and other accumulated materials from lift station wet wells, piping, and associated equipment. The operator safely inspects and maintains specialized equipment to ensure reliable performance and minimize operational disruptions.

When the vacuum/jetter truck is unavailable or operational needs require, the employee may assist System Mechanics with lift station inspections, preventive maintenance, equipment cleaning, and general maintenance. The employee may also operate other heavy equipment and commercial vehicles as qualified and assigned. Work is primarily outdoors at wastewater lift stations and utility facilities, and may involve emergency response, extended hours, weekends, or holidays as operational needs require.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED issued by an approved GED Administrator.
• At least three years of relevant work experience operating commercial vehicles, heavy equipment, or specialized utility maintenance equipment.
• Experience operating combination vacuum/jetter trucks or similar wastewater cleaning equipment.
• Valid, unrestricted State of Florida Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL), to be maintained.
• Possess or obtain a Tank Vehicle (N) Endorsement within the first six months of employment, subject to applicable vehicle operating requirements.
• Ability to safely operate specialized equipment, follow written and verbal instructions, and complete required operational documentation.
• Ability to work outdoors under varying weather conditions and respond to emergency situations as required.
• Ability to perform frequent climbing in and out of commercial vehicles; assemble, connect, disconnect, lift, carry, and maneuver hoses and related equipment; and work safely around open wet wells and uneven or slippery surfaces.
• Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to meet the physical demands described, including standing, walking, sitting, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, reaching, twisting, and sustained physical activity.
• Any combination of education and experience demonstrating the ability to perform the essential functions may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Operate combination vacuum/jetter trucks to clean wastewater lift station wet wells, piping, and associated infrastructure.
• Use high-pressure water jetting and vacuum operations to remove grease, sludge, sediment, debris, and other accumulated materials.
• Safely operate vacuum pumps, high-pressure water pumps, hydraulic booms, hoses, nozzles, and associated equipment.
• Coordinate cleaning activities with Lift Station Maintenance personnel to minimize operational disruptions and prevent sanitary sewer overflows.
• Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle and equipment inspections, including required DOT inspections.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, including lubrication, fluid-level inspections, cleaning, and authorized minor mechanical repairs.
• Identify and report equipment deficiencies, mechanical issues, unsafe conditions, and needed repairs to the appropriate supervisor.
• Transport and dispose of collected wastewater, sludge, sediment, and debris at approved locations in accordance with procedures and regulations.
• Assist System Mechanics with lift station inspections, preventive maintenance, equipment cleaning, and general maintenance when the vacuum/jetter truck is unavailable or as assigned.
• Assist with emergency response involving sanitary sewer overflows, lift station failures, sewer blockages, and other wastewater collection system emergencies.
• Operate additional heavy equipment and commercial vehicles, including dump trucks, roll-off trucks, front-end loaders, skid steers, and excavators, as qualified and assigned.
• Establish and maintain safe work areas, including traffic control, equipment positioning, and applicable safety procedures.
• Maintain daily work records, equipment inspection reports, cleaning logs, disposal documentation, and other required records.
• Follow safety procedures for high-pressure water systems, vacuum equipment, wastewater exposure, confined spaces, and hazardous working conditions.
• Attend required safety meetings, training sessions, and equipment operation certification programs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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