Sr. Equipment Operator - Heavy Equipment - job 1 of 5

As a Sr. Equipment Operator at the City of Fort Worth, your main responsibilities will include operating complex heavy equipment such as cranes and backhoes, maintaining water and wastewater systems, performing specialized tasks in the field, and collaborating with your crew to ensure that operations run smoothly. You will also be crucial in responding to emergency situations, assisting in repairs, and performing regular equipment maintenance.

To qualify for the Sr. Equipment Operator role at the City of Fort Worth, you need a high school diploma or GED along with at least three years of experience operating motorized heavy equipment. A Texas Class A CDL driver’s license is required, as well as the ability to obtain a TCEQ Water Class C or Wastewater Collection I license within 12 months of hiring. Passing a drug screen and physical exam is also mandatory.

The work schedule for the Sr. Equipment Operator position at the City of Fort Worth is challenging yet rewarding, as it is part of a 24/7 operation. This means weekend work may be necessary, and you will occasionally be required to work after hours, including nights, holidays, and in severe weather conditions, due to the nature of emergency responses.

Yes! As a new Sr. Equipment Operator at the City of Fort Worth, you can expect robust training programs designed to support your development and success in this role. You will not only receive initial training on equipment operation but also continual professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and career growth.

Sr. Equipment Operators with the City of Fort Worth enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes 11 paid holidays, health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off, a pension plan, and opportunities for professional development. There’s also a sign-on incentive of $2,000 to welcome you aboard!

When answering this question, highlight specific types of heavy equipment you have operated like backhoes or cranes. Provide examples of projects you worked on, any challenges you faced, and how you overcame them, emphasizing your skill and safety awareness.

Discuss your approach to safety regulations, safety checks before operation, and any relevant training you have undergone. Use concrete examples of how you've maintained safety standards in previous positions or how you've been part of a team focused on safety.

Share a structured approach, such as identifying the problem, safely shutting down the equipment, conducting an initial assessment, and communicating with supervisors regarding repair options. Emphasize the importance of teamwork in coordinating repairs.

Describe your ability to adapt to weather variations. Mention your awareness of the risks involved and how you prioritize safety while ensuring that operational tasks are completed efficiently. Provide an example if applicable.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a team project. Highlight your role as a Sr. Equipment Operator, cooperating with others for successful completion, and any positive outcomes that resulted from the team effort.

Outline your procedures for regular maintenance and inspection of heavy equipment. Mention any maintenance logs or documentation you’ve managed in past roles, and stress the importance of proactive maintenance in preventing breakdowns.

Discuss your ability to prioritize tasks calmly under pressure, your previous experience in emergency situations, and how you would collaborate with team members to coordinate quick and effective responses. Providing a specific instance can strengthen your answer.

Share personal motivations for choosing this field, such as a passion for community service, a desire to ensure reliable utility services, and pride in contributing to city infrastructure. Highlight any previous roles that solidified your interest.

Explain your commitment to ongoing learning, including how you follow industry publications, attend workshops or courses, and stay connected with professional networks. This demonstrates your dedication to your profession.

Discuss your understanding of municipal policies regarding operations, safety, and environmental considerations. Share how you’ve implemented compliance measures in the past and the importance of adhering to these guidelines in your work.