Hydro Excavator Operator

Salary : $45,531.20 - $58,052.80 Annually
Location : 1040 Hancock Avenue, Gainesville, GA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 00994
Department: Department of Water Resources
Division: Water Distribution
Opening Date: 10/13/2025
Closing Date: Continuous


Summary


Responsible for operating a Hydro Excavator Truck which requires higher attention to detail and skill in interpreting closed-circuit television video (CCTV) as well as Global Positioning System (GPS) data. Also, operates a tandem axle truck, backhoe, skid steer loader, dozer, scraper, grader, pothole patcher, operates light equipment such as cement mixers, asphalt spreaders, etc. dump truck, sewer jet truck, road tractor, track hoe, excavator, skid steer, forklift.

Job Duties


Operates the specialized Hydro Excavator Truck to remove dirt and silt with precision and less damage: vital to well-maintained areas. Assists in shortening repair times and lessens large clean-up efforts after work is completed.

Works to assist in cleaning storm water lines, basins, and manholes as needed.


Operates flat-bed dump trucks to transport materials or haul brush/debris, gravel, asphalt, etc.

Performs basic maintenance on backhoes, dump trucks and mowers including washing, changing oil, greasing, sharpening blades and changing flat tires.


May assist in training new employees.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Operates a tandem axle truck, dump truck, sewer jet truck, road tractor, track hoe, excavator, backhoe, skid steer loader, dozer, forklift; operates light equipment such as cement mixer, asphalt roller, boring machine, air compressor, concrete saw, etc. on a water or sanitary sewer crew.

Inspects storm water condition via CCTV.


Locates and uncovers broken sewer and water lines; oversees the operations for the crew; operates machinery as needed; assures equipment is properly serviced and maintained.

Potholing for new construction of water lines, sewer taps, cable lines, fire line connections, gas lines, and sewer lines.

Constructs taps and main extension tie-ins for the water system, draws maps of valves and manholes to assure proper location.

Employee subject to recall in case of an emergency.

Employee may serve as crew supervisor as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Ability to read and write.


Preferred experience reading GPS coordinates.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid Class B or A Driver's License depending on assigned vehicle and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this position, incumbents will be subject to random drug testing.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of geography of the City/County including major streets and landmarks.

Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures.

Knowledge of traffic rules and regulations and safe operation of heavy equipment.

Basic to intermediate knowledge of and skill in operating various types of heavy equipment.


Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.


Ability to perform strenuous and routine work.

Ability to lift objects of up to 50 pounds.

Knowledge of the principles, practices and methods in water and sewer line construction and maintenance as well as the installation and repair of sewer and water taps, fire hydrants and water meters.


Knowledge of the operations and safety precautions necessary in the operations of the various types of machinery used in water and sewer line construction.

Ability to read and interpret blueprints and site plans.

Ability to understand and follow instructions both orally and in writing.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

Supplemental Information


This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

The above position qualifies for a 5% certification incentive based upon attainment of a Wastewater Collection Operator Certification.
The above position qualifies for a 5% certification incentive based upon attainment of a Water Distribution Operator Certification.
15% maximum allowable for certification incentives.
The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer. The City of Gainesville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The City of Gainesville conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Overview
Part of the City of Gainesville's success is due to the efforts and loyalty of City employees. Gainesville offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees and retirees. In assessing our comprehensive programs, the City has taken great care to seek a fair balance between business needs and employment security. There are many options available which afford City staff with coverage to best suit individual and family needs. In many cases, deductions are available on a pre-tax basis.

City Benefits Paid at 100%

• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Clinic & Wellness Center
• GMEBS Retirement Plan (select positions)
• Life Insurance (up to $75,000)
• Paid Holidays (10)
• Paid Jury Duty Leave
• Paid Military Leave
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Protective Safety Equipment
• Short-Term Disability Insurance (After 12 months of employment)
• Tuition Reimbursement (After one year of employment)
• Uniforms (select positions)
• Workers' Compensation

Supplemental Benefits

• Accident
• Critical Illness
• Death and Dismemberment
• Deferred Compensation
• Dental
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Long-Term Disability
• Medical
• Plan A Retirement (50% City paid - select positions)
• Vision
• Voluntary Life Insurance

Other Benefits

• Biweekly Paycheck
• Credit Union
• Direct Deposit
• Discount PC Purchase Plan
• Employee Recognition Events
• Employee Wellness Opportunities
• Free Flu Shot
• Free Parking
• Health and Benefits Fair