Backhoe Operator (Dirt Crew)

Description Operate or tend machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Consistently monitor and maintain compliance with all safety policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Set up or inspect equipment prior to operation.
• Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and with efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application.
• Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines so that work can be performed to specifications.
• Operate machinery to perform activities such as backfilling excavations, vibrating or breaking rock or concrete, or making retention ponds.
• Receive written or oral instructions regarding material movement or excavation.
• Move materials over short distances, such as around a construction site, factory, or warehouse.
• Create or maintain inclines or ramps.
• Maintain tools and equipment so that they are kept in good working order and are safe for use.
• Handle slides, mud, or pit cleanings or maintenance.
• Measure and verify levels of rock or gravel, bases, or other excavated material.
• Direct ground workers engaged in activities such as moving stakes or markers or changing positions of towers.
• Adjust dig face angles for varying overburden depths and set lengths.
• Perform daily routine maintenance on machine including lubrication and monitor needed repairs/service requirements.
• Other duties as required.

Requirements

• Ability to operate heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of light and heavy equipment operation and maintenance.
• Ability to use hand and power tools applicable to trade.
• Knowledge of basic vehicle inspection and maintenance including tire pressure, checking oil and water levels.
• Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
• Ability to understand the limitation of the machine.
• Working knowledge of operating a backhoe, on a pipe crew or road/dirt construction crew

Job Specific Competencies:

• Minimum of 3 years of direct experience in operating different types of heavy equipment.
• Must be able to perform manual labor (assisting crew members on the ground) in all types of environments and conditions.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50 or more pounds.
• Must be able to work outdoors and withstand different weather elements.