Tunnel Operator

General Summary

Provides traffic control duties at the Washburn Tunnel entrances. Ensures all prohibited vehicles including heavy-load trucks, hazardous materials vehicles and oversized vehicles do not enter the tunnel. Stops and inspects trailers and wreckers for safety chains and safe loads before entering the tunnel. Compiles vehicle accident reports and helps maintain/clear incident and stall events in the tunnel. Performs routine facility upkeep such as cleaning, disinfecting, washing, and sweeping. Operates and maintains construction equipment including, blowers, water trailers, cutters, forklifts, and wrecker.

Duties & Responsibilities

Monitors traffic in a safe and timely manner checking all heavy load trucks for hazardous materials, unsafe loads, height and width requirements. Stops and inspects all trailers and wreckers for safety chains and safe loads before entering the tunnel. Communicates with control room via telephone and two-way radio. Enforces all rules and regulations for vehicles traveling through tunnel.

Performs routine, non-technical maintenance as assigned, including cleaning, sanitizing, washing, sweeping, watering plants, gathering and disposing of trash and litter, etc., in or around County buildings, restrooms and vehicles in a safe and timely manner.

Operates and maintains tunnel equipment including lighting, generators, motors, and ventilation systems. Performs inspections on operator vehicles and equipment in vehicles needed to respond to incidents in the tunnel and compile data for maintenance or service needs.

Assists with monitoring traffic and radio communications when assigned in the control room and assist with responding to incidents such as stalls, walkers, wrecks, etc. Compiles and assists with vehicle accident reports in and around tunnel area.

Assists in basic training for new employees and temps regarding traffic safety, rules and regulations, vehicle inspections, unauthorized vehicles, radio and phone communications, temporary and long-term road closure procedures, etc.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Good verbal and written communication skills Ability to work well with the public and other staff members.

Work Environment

There are minor discomforts from exposure to less-than-optimal weather and outside temperatures. The position involves dealing with some exposure to vehicle exhaust.

Physical Demands

Physical ability to perform job duties including walking, bending, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods of time flagging traffic.

Must occasionally lift and/or move at least fifty (50) pounds.

Ability to work in inclement weather and confined areas.

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

Rotating 8-hour shifts Including Weekends and Holidays 3 Shifts covering 24-hour period; morning, evening, and graveyard Emergency situations may require additional hours. This position has a rotating Schedule starting with Night Shift for 2 months then transition to Evening Shift.

Required Education/Experience

High school diploma or GED equivalent for an accredited educational institution. Valid driver's license with good driving record.

Other Duties

This Job Description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign, or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to Position: Tunnel Operations Foreman II

Equal Opportunity Statement

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.