Light Equipment Operator, Water/Sewer

The Town of Ashland seeks qualified, experienced, and energetic candidates for the position of Light Equipment Operator in the Water/Sewer Division within the Department of Public Works. This is a great opportunity for candidates looking for opportunities to grow.

Salary Range: Grade H03 $22.9708/hr. - $25.2061/hr, DOQ
*Full range for H03 is ($22.9708/hr – $30.7711/hr)
**Upon successful completion of probation and the required licensing listed below, the range will move to Grade H04 $24.6601/hr. - $32.8589/hr

New Employees hired after July 1, 2024 will have an initial six (6) month probationary period in which upon satisfactory completion they will join the union. During the initial six (6) month probationary period the employee will be required to obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit, failure to do so could result in termination of employment. New employees will have an additional six (6) month probationary period after their initial six (6) month probationary period to acquire their CDL-B, failure to obtain their CDL-B will be just cause for termination of employment. The Town reserves the right to extend the probationary period up to four (4) additional months, the Town will notify the employee and Union Representative, in writing, giving a reason for such extension. New hires will remain at HO3 until they receive their CDL-B, upon receipt of their CDL-B the internal candidate will move to H04, Heavy Equipment Operator.

The Heavy Equipment Operator is a full-time, 40 hour/week, non-exempt position represented by the DPW Union. Salary is based on the chart in the collective bargaining agreement for grade H04. The starting salary range for this position will be $24.6601/hr. - $29.6284/hr. The full salary range is $24.6601/hr - $32.8589/hr

Additional opportunities for growth exist upon receipt of Water Tech licensing.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Light Equipment Operator primarily performs work related to construction and maintenance of municipal water and sewer infrastructure. It involves frequent operation of vehicles as well as power- and manual-hand tools, under general supervision. The job responsibilities may include the following or other duties as assigned:

• General labor and landscaping needs (i.e., mowing, blowing leaves, weed whacking, tree work, raking, snow shoveling, the use of hand tools, etc.)
• Drive or operate vehicles and equipment engaged in construction, maintenance, snow removal, and various other projects and activities.
• Assist in the operation and maintenance of all sewer and water stations.
• Basic knowledge of hand tools and small power tools.
• The ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb ladders and work in tight quarters.
• Be able to work independently when needed.
• Comprehend and maintain records such as tie sheets, backflow reports, dig safes, and work orders.
• Check vehicles and equipment for proper operation and maintenance, and report problems to the supervisor, or in their absence the mechanic, for corrective action.
• Interact with the public related to meter changes and other services in a positive and professional manner.

This position is required to be available for all essential services including Water and Sewer related failures, Snow and Ice operations and any other emergencies during or outside regular work hours.

ATTRIBUTES AND QUALIFICATIONS

The Light Equipment Operator position requires a High School degree or equivalent plus a minimum knowledge of basic construction practices. Additionally, candidates must be able to:

• Follow directions on projects
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, subordinates, coworkers, and the general public.
• Communicate effectively, confirming understanding if direction is given.
• Understand and properly operate tools and equipment.
• Understand and follow all safety procedures related to job responsibilities.

Candidates must be able to obtain:

• Massachusetts Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with air brake endorsement
• Massachusetts Hoisting Engineer with a 2A, 1C endorsement within (6) months of employment.