Job Information
CITY of SOMERVILLE Special Heavy Motor Equipment in Somerville, Massachusetts
The Special Heavy Motor Equipment Operator (SHMEO)/Sewer works in the construction, maintenance, and operation of the sewer system including but not limited to sewer mains, drains, connections, and catch basins. The individual shall have a thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of maintaining sewer systems. Performs all other related duties that may be assigned. Essential Functions: Performs the installation and repair of mains, valves, manholes, drainage systems, and any other appurtenances using whatever methods, tools, and procedures are necessary to complete the task in a safe, proper, and proficient manner. Digs, braces, backfills and tampers excavations. Installs and repairs asphalt and concrete. May be required to climb into catch basins and sewer lines to remove and dispose of solid substances. May assist private contractors during City construction or excavations. Read and follows specifications on engineering blueprints, sketches, and diagrams of the water and sewer system. Locate, operate, repair, and maintain underground utilities and controls related to the sewer infrastructure. Ensures operational, maintenance, and staff compliance with applicable safety regulations and other requirements governing construction, repair, and maintenance operations. Operates equipment including but not limited to front-end loaders, backhoes, compacting equipment, skid-steer loaders, vactor-type equipment, jetting machines, and catch-basin machines in a professional and competent manner and with care taken to perform the work safely and with efficiency. Uses standard hand tools including but not limited to shovels, picks, axes, saws, heavy wrenches, and small power tools. Responds to emergencies as directed. Reports any emergencies to a Foreman. Assists with emergency response activities related to system failures and/or crisis situations of the City sewer and drainage system. In the case of breaks and failures of the City sewer and drainage system, is responsible for determining the cause, locating problem area, and using whatever methods, tools and procedures that are necessary to complete the task in a safe, proper and proficient manner. Also responsible for ensuring that customers are not experiencing flooding conditions caused by the City sewer and drainage system by entering homes and basements to check their status. Performs the safe collection and transport of sewer effluent in compliance with all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and State DEP sewer regulations. Responsible for reporting any Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) to a superior for notification to DEP. Performs minor maintenance functions on equipment including but not limited to checking and maintaining air pressures and fluid levels, lubrication of mechanical joints by applying necessary greases, and routine cleaning of vehicle exterior and interior. Performs daily vehicle condition inspections and reports as required by law or by Department policy. Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the general public. Takes lead role toward customer response and problem resolution as related to sewer system issues and reports such issues to a Foreman. Assists with cross-departmental Water and Sewer emergencies. Uses electronic work order system. Trains personnel as necessary. Recommended Minimum Qualifications: Working knowledge of the following: Principles and practices pertaining to the correct, proficient, and safe operation of equipment and assigned vehicles. Applicable State, Municipal, and Department rules and regulations pertaining to safe operation of assigned motor equipment. Rules, regulations, and applicable laws relative to job-related safety. Principles and practices for the operation and maintenance of sewer systems. Demonstrated ability to recognize conditions requiring maintenance and repair. Exercise proper professional and technica judgment.