GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

The EQUIPMENT OPERATOR 1 performs semiskilled work involving the operation and maintenance of motor-powered equipment, such as trucks or machinery used in construction and maintenance.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is the first level of a two-level series. It is distinguished from the higher level by the use of equipment that is predominantly of lesser weight and horsepower, and by the smaller diversity of equipment operated.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Allocation of positions to this class will depend on the total work performed, which may include one or a combination of the duties or tasks listed below.

1. Equipment Operation.  Typical tasks:  operates various construction and maintenance machinery such as light tractors, mowers, loaders and dump trucks used to move dirt, gravel, forest slash and debris.
2. Equipment Maintenance.  Typical tasks:  performs preventive maintenance on vehicles and equipment such as cleaning, inspecting tires, belts, fluid levels, battery; changes oil and filters; checks safety equipment such as lights, brakes, seat belts; may make emergency repairs to resume operation of equipment; makes recommendations to supervisor when major repairs are needed.
3. Miscellaneous.  Typical tasks:  may perform heavy physical labor such as digging ditches, clearing brush, removing obstacles from road, loading and unloading materials, commodities, and equipment; maintains work area as required; operates trucks, used in transporting materials and merchandise such as building materials and tools, trash, and furniture; operates forklift to move materials around the workplace. (As employees in this class advance in proficiency they may, under close supervision, occasionally use equipment and machinery more commonly used at the higher level.)

RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class are in daily in-person contact with others involved in construction and maintenance projects to coordinate activities. They have periodic in-person contact with various levels of agency staff when receiving or delivering materials and merchandise to be transported.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class work under direct supervision of an operations supervisor, who reviews work daily to see that equipment is being operated properly and that schedules are being met.

Guidelines that must be followed include State and Federal laws concerning safety and traffic, as well as agency rules governing equipment operation procedures and materials handling.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions are found in central and remote locations throughout State government (e.g., general government agencies, human or natural resource agencies, correctional, mental health, or higher education institutions, hospitals, etc.). They require the willingness to work within the environment associated with the position's location. They require the willingness to perform strenuous physical labor. They require the willingness to work in an environment associated with construction projects which includes dust, grime, exhaust, and high levels of noise. They require the willingness to work outdoors in inclement weather. They require the willingness to work with and around chemicals contained in solvents and lubricants used in equipment maintenance.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• One year of experience operating passenger buses or various construction and/or maintenance machinery such as light tractors, riding mowers, loaders, or dump trucks; AND 
• The ability to secure an Oregon drivers license valid for the classes of vehicles used by the employing agency before the date of employment.