General Statement of DutiesUnder the general supervision of the Distribution Foreman, the Backhoe Operator is responsible for operating the backhoe in the installation and repair of water and sanitary sewer lines. The Backhoe Operator is responsible for the semi-skilled work in the maintenance of water distribution and sewage collection systems and performs fieldwork in excavating and backfilling all utilities related work as required. The employee not only works on a particular phase of work each day rendering public services on a daily basis but also assists the working supervisor in other related duties.Essential Functions The duties are as follows:• Operate and preventive maintenance on backhoe and other related equipment.• Installs, tests, and repairs water and sewer lines on city facilities using plumbing techniques.• Assists in installing water line extensions, new service lines, hydrants, and valves.• Assists in making water taps, set fire hydrants,• Repair lines that have been broken by replacing sections or installing repair clamps.• May also perform a variety amount of heavy manual work in connection with the repair.• Maintenance of backhoe and related equipment.• Reports to the working supervisor any problem with the equipment and/or facilities that need attention.• Has daily contact with the public; and• Performs other work as assigned.Supervisory ResponsibilityThis position has no supervisory responsibilities. Physical DemandsMust have the use of sensory skills in order to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public through the use of the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Significant standing, walking, moving, climbing, carrying, bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, handling, pushing, and pulling. Work outdoors in different climates. Ability to lift to 100 lbs. Must be able to be on call for 24 hours while on stand-by duty. Must be able to work weekends, holidays, or special events when necessary.

Minimum Qualifications and RequirementsMust be at least eighteen (18) years of age.High School Diploma or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma (GED).May be required to obtain a Water Distribution, or Collection I license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.Must have two (2) years’ experience as a backhoe operator or a related field. A comparable amount of training may be substituted for the minimum experience qualification.Must possess a valid, Texas (Class C) driver's license and an acceptable driving record. Pre-employment drug screen, physical and criminal background required.

Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesKnowledge -Knowledge on the operation and maintenance of the different kind of backhoes.Knowledge of the occupational hazards involved and the necessary safety precautions.

Skills -Communicate effectively in writing as appropriate for documentation purposes. Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. Considerable skills in the use of a backhoe, high velocity sewer cleaner and water tapping machine tools related to the plumbing and pipe fitting trade.

Abilities-The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented verbally or in written format. The ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form. The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. The ability to detect leaks and malfunctions in water lines. The ability to work under adverse climatic weather, noise, and vibration. The ability to operate a backhoe in limited space, to operate it under adverse conditions. The ability to maintain an effective working relationship with co-workers, other department city employees and the general public.

AAP/EEO Statement

The City of Pharr is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act (ADAAA) the City of Pharr will provide reasonable accommodations, upon reasonable request, to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The City focuses on identifying candidates who are customer oriented and committed to public service to create a culture that is committed to diversity.