Equipment Operator Trainee (Perm/FT/Benefits)

Job Description Summary: Job Description Summary This is entry-level work involving the basic and safe operation of light construction equipment. Employees in this classification must undergo training to become proficient in the operation of equipment specific to their work unit. The Equipment Operator Trainee is responsible for operating construction equipment specific to the employee's work unit, complying with safety and standard operating procedures. This position conducts routine and minor service and maintenance to equipment, and performs less skilled tasks when not operating equipment. Work assignments are given in detail, and work is closely supervised and inspected regularly by supervisory personnel. Employees who satisfactorily complete the trainee level of this classification will be eligible for non-competitive promotion to an Equipment Operator. Job Description: Salary Range: $40,260.00-$107,746.00 BUDGETED SALARY: $43,324.76 Essential Duties: Will be trained and must become proficient in the operation of the following pieces of equipment specific to the employee's work unit: Rubber tire loader, Athey (force feed) loader, rollers (rubber-tired and steel wheel), sweepers (vacuum and mechanical), mowers (boom, slope, flail, sickle bar, conventional), backhoe, paver, skid loader, paint striper (cab). Adheres to applicable safety rules and regulations. Services and checks equipment assigned daily and makes minor repairs and adjustments as necessary, to assure maximum operating efficiency. Moves equipment from one work location to another using a diesel dump truck that pulls a trailer. Loads and unloads equipment as necessary. Performs duties equal to or below the classification when not operating assigned equipment. Required to participate in snow removal and is on a 24-hour call during snowstorms or other emergencies. May, on occasion, be required to lead a crew. Other duties as assigned. Years of Experience: One (1) year of experience performing general laboring work. In addition, some basic equipment operation experience is required. Years of Supervisory Experience: Education: High School Diploma or equivalent Certifications, Licensures, and Examinations: Possession of a valid Class "C" non-commercial driver's license with no more than three (3) points. Be advised that this position requires a valid driver's license. A Class "A" CDL with tanker and air brake endorsement must be obtained within six (6) months of hire. Chainsaw Safety Certification within six (6) months of hire (Required); Forklift Operator's Certification within six (6) months of hire (Required); Tree Trimming Certification within six (6) months of hire (Required); Flagging Certification within six (6) months of hire (Required) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to learn and acquire proficient operational knowledge of assigned equipment; to read and understand the operator's manual Ability to make routine adjustments as necessary; to perform minor maintenance in accordance with the operator's manual Ability to pass a qualifying examination and have the ability to safely start and operate a rubber-tired loader, backhoe, and/or roll-off truck Ability to follow directions, to climb, stoop, kneel, reach, and stand for prolonged periods of time Ability to lift and move heavy objects Ability to drive a motor vehicle and operate equipment relevant to the position Ability to use various computer systems, including web-based timekeeping, performance management, e-learning, etc. Safety: Must comply with all Federal (OSHA), State of Maryland (MOSH), safety regulations and applicable Harford County safety policies, procedures, or manuals as required for this position. Compensation: Other compensation may include, but is not limited to: Overtime Compensatory time Shift Differentials Benefits: Harford County offers an exceptional benefits package that includes: Health, Dental & Vision insurance Flexible Spending Accounts State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children Generous Leave Package & Paid Holidays Tuition Reimbursement Notes 1. Selected candidates for positions in this class will be required to undergo random drug/alcohol tests. 2. Positions in this class are considered critical for snow events and County-wide emergencies. 3. The applicant will be required to pass a qualifying examination and may be required to start and safely operate a rubber-tired loader, backhoe, or skid loader. PLEASE DRESS ACCORDINGLY FOR MANUAL TESTING DURINGTHE INTERVIEW. Effective Monday, December 15, 2025 this URL will change, please click here to access the new page. If you have bookmarked the URL, please update as necessary.