Machine Mower/Utility Worker

POSITION SUMMARY

The Machine Mower/Utility Worker I position is responsible for operation and general maintenance of a tractor mounted industrial boom mower to maintain rights-of-way, easements, ditches, and other assigned areas. In addition, this position will assist utility field crews in the maintenance and repair of water, wastewater, and street utilities.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The Public Works Department is the largest department within the City of Astoria. Major areas of responsibility include: Water Treatment and Distribution: Waste water Collection and Treatment; Street Maintenance; Engineering Services; Sanitation; Fleet Maintenance for all City Vehicles; Forestry Management; City Facility Maintenance; Railroad Maintenance; and Mapping with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

SCHEDULE

The regular schedule for this position is full-time, Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM. During seasons with more daylight, the schedule adjusts to four, 10 hour workdays per week.

Due to an immediate opening, applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and the position may close early. We encourage you to apply right away to be considered.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Safely operates an industrial boom flail mower attached to a large tractor or tracked excavator using hand and foot controls to clear rights-of-way, easements, ditches, and other assigned areas of brush, grass and trees following established routes. Adjusts and operates flail mower head and changes cutters as necessary. Identifies and reports hazardous conditions observed.
• Performs cleaning, maintenance and repair to mowing equipment. Inspects equipment for proper operating condition, safety and mechanical defects; checks fuel, fluid levels, air pressure and hydraulic systems; performs preventive maintenance and reports the need for required maintenance.
• Uses, cleans and maintains power equipment such as a chainsaw, string trimmer, brush cutter and other related tools.
• Safely loads, transports and unloads equipment by truck and trailer between job sites; adheres to traffic safety rules and regulations.
• Maintains a variety of records and reports on mowing and utility operations including completing daily reports.
• Assists utility field crews in the maintenance and repair of water, wastewater, and street utilities when not performing mowing operations.
• Operates sanders, deicers, and snowplows during periods of inclement weather.
• Represent the City in a positive and professional manner. Maintain cooperative working relationships with City staff, other organizations and the general public.
• Maintains punctual, regular and predictable attendance.
• Works collaboratively in a team environment with a spirit of cooperation.
• Respectfully takes direction from supervisors.
• Follows all safety rules and procedures established for various work areas.
• Follows policies, procedures, and guidelines as described in the City of Astoria Personnel Manual, department policies and other documentation related to this position.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment including knowledge of hazards, safety rules, and applicable regulations.
• Highly proficient at using hand and power tools including performance of general equipment maintenance and repair.
• Perform heavy manual labor in sometimes adverse weather conditions;
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively and remain calm and courteous under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic proficiency in using computers, tablets and software.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to perform essential job duties with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to safety or health of employee or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. High school diploma or general education degree (GED);
2. Two years' experience using hand tools, power tools, and the operation of light and heavy construction equipment or any equivalent combination of experience and training that demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position;
3. Possession of a valid driver's license and safe driving record;
4. Ability to pass a background check including checks of Criminal, Social Security Trace, Sex Offender Registry and Motor Vehicle records; and
5. Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

This position requires the following within 12 months of hire:

• A minimum Class A Commercial Driver's License with air brakes endorsement (training provided); and
• Residency within 30 minutes of City Limits.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

1. Previous experience in the operation of tractor mounted flail mowers or brush cutters.
2. Possession of a Class A Commercial Driver's License with air brakes, manual, and tanker endorsements.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Subject to 24-hour call out, 7 days a week in emergencies.
• Must be able to use a respirator as determined by a professionally licensed health care professional (PLHCP) while performing various work tasks.
• Must have reliable phone service.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, and reach with hands or arms. The employee is regularly required to sit for long periods; use hands and feet to operate machinery; talk and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move materials up to and over 50 pounds. Employee will be working in a high noise environment and will wear hearing protection.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee: is occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions; works near moving mechanical parts; works around fumes or airborne particles; works in all weather conditions.

This position is represented by a Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Salary : $24 - $29