Equipment Operator

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, this position is responsible for operating heavy equipment for the repair and maintenance of roads, streets, and sidewalks, as well as the collection and removal of waste refuse and recycling materials. The role ensures safe and efficient transportation and disposal of waste and recycling at designated facilities and supports seasonal road maintenance activities. Exceptional customer service skills are required when interacting with the public while operating equipment safely.

WORK RESPONSIBILITIES

Operate heavy equipment including but not limited to:
• garbage truck, street sweeper, sander, plow/snow plough, front-end loader, rubber tire hoe, grader, tandem truck, backhoe, vac unit, and other related equipment
• Collect waste refuse using automated garbage collection systems and manage recycling materials
• Perform street sweeping, pothole patching, street sign placement, storm water management, and catch basin repairs
• Conduct winter operations including snowploughing, loading sanding material, street sanding, and hauling sand and gravel
• Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of heavy equipment

• Complete pre- and post-trip inspections and maintain required records for equipment safety and maintenance
• Maintain waste and recycling schedules for commercial and residential customers
• Rotate on standby with other department staff as required
• Perform housekeeping and general labour duties
• Undertake other duties as assigned
• May be assigned a role within the Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) for Disaster Services

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED
• Experience operating heavy equipment in a municipal work environment is preferred
• Preference for a Mobile Equipment Operation Ticket
• Knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OH&S) and Regulations
• Valid First Aid and CPR Certificate
• Satisfactory background screening is required for this position including a Criminal Record Check
• A Class 3 Driver’s License with Air Brake Endorsement and a satisfactory Driver’s Abstract

SKILLS & ABILITIES 

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Commitment to continuous training and professional development
• Safety-focused approach in all work
• Problem-solving skills and flexibility to adapt to changing priorities
• Ability to overcome obstacles and work under pressure
• Strong relationship-building with stakeholders
• Able to work independently and as a dependable team member
• Ability to provide training to others on safe equipment usage

WORKING CONDITIONS

Details pertaining to the physical demands of the position can be found in the Physical Demands Analysis and Job Hazard Assessment with Health & Safety

HOURS

Work weekdays and occasionally respond to and assist with safety related after hour calls during evenings and/or weekends. Commit to an on-call schedule by responding to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

Operation and use of required tools and equipment skillfully and safely; physical endurance to complete laborious tasks and operate machinery for extended periods of time; able to perform heavy and manual lifting, bending, reaching of materials, pushing and pulling, and frequent standing and walking.

TRAVEL

Significant travel under various road and weather conditions responding to emergency weather and utility interruptions. Must maintain alertness and respond appropriately using defensive driving skills in various conditions (traffic, weather, distractions).

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Exposure to work environments where workers may be exposed to significant hazards such as elevated work locations, confined spaces (limited access), proximity to fire/explosion, exposure to ammonia, asbestos, etc. Work performed in equipment repair or maintenance in the shop yard environment entails controlled access. Moderate exposure to the public.