Heavy Equipment Operator I

Position Overview

Join the Town of Vail as a Heavy Equipment Operator

Expected Hiring Range: $31.00 - $34.24 per hour

The Town of Vail is seeking a skilled and motivated individual to join our Public Works Department in a year-round role as a Heavy Equipment Operator in the winter, providing essential services to keep our town beautiful and operational in all seasons.

The Town of Vail is now hiring a motivated & experienced Heavy Equipment Operator. Responsibilities include operation of a variety of light, medium, and heavy weight public works vehicles and equipment to perform street construction and repair, structure construction and snow removal. During the winter season this position focuses on snowplowing and removal for the town. This requires a regular call in schedule, early mornings and overnight shifts. In addition, the position may be assigned to any functional area in Public Works as needed on a daily basis

Throughout the year, no matter the season, providing excellent guest service and maintaining the high standards of the Town of Vail is at the heart of everything we do!

Skills / Requirements

Vail is a guest service oriented and resort destination community. We realize that to set the standard for world-class alpine resorts, our employees make all the difference! That is why we are looking for passionate individuals who strive for excellence in all that they do. Qualified applicants must be self-motivated and have the ability to work individually without direct supervision to accomplish multiple tasks.

Work Environment and Conditions

• While performing the duties of this job normally is exposed to the outdoors in all weather conditions (including extreme cold temperatures) and all types of equipment noise, traffic, dust, heights, chemicals, fumes, and biohazards.
• The position involves mostly outside work, with occasional inside work with exposure to all types of equipment noise, traffic, dust, chemicals, and fumes.
• Meet division safety training requirements; maintain required health and safety certifications according to safety requirements.

Physical Demands

• The duties of this job include physical activities such as stooping, kneeling, standing, reaching, walking, lifting and/or move (up to 100 pounds), grasping, talking, and hearing/listening, seeing/observing, and repetitive motions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus. Must be able to work in malodorous, nauseating and dangerous work conditions. Must be able to withstand inclement weather such as snow, cold, rain, heat, humidity, sun, etc.
• Must be physically able to use a variety of small tools, operate equipment and or drive vehicles for extended period of time.
• Must be able to walk, climb, and descend for extended distances over various types of terrain.
• Must be able climb ladders and work at different heights.
• Must be able to deal with stressful situations as they arise.

What it Takes to Do the Job

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work a varying schedule, including evenings, emergency response, weekends and holidays, when necessary.
• Knowledge of materials, methods, practices, and equipment used in street maintenance and related activities.
• Knowledge of practical elements as they relate to street maintenance and traffic control.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Basic computer skills, including knowledge of MS Office programs Outlook, Word and Excel; ability to learn other computer skills.
• Ability to work independently without supervision.
• Ability to analyze situations and adopt an effective course of action.
• Knowledge and understanding of safety principles and the ability to follow the safety manual.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with management, fellow employees, contractors, guests, and external customers.
• Ability to maintain regular and dependable attendance on the job, including attendance and job performance for possibly prolonged periods of time when called out on short notice due to weather conditions, emergencies, and similar situations of public necessity.
• Must be able to pass a federally mandated drug and alcohol test at any time.
• Must understand and be able to implement the MUTCD for signage throughout town for the replacement, inspection, and repair of all traffic, guide, and construction signage.
• Basic irrigation hydraulics understanding.

Education, Experience and Certificates

• Graduation from an accredited high school or GED.
• Must be able to acquire and maintain a valid class “A” commercial driver’s license within three months of hire.
• Able to operate a variety of heavy equipment and vehicles.
• Preferred 1 to 2 years of public works or related construction experience.
• The town may accept any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Flagger certification, Backhoe I certification, Loader II certification, confined space certification, forklift certification.

Culture / Lifestyle / Benefits

Experience the Best of Living and Working in Vail, Colorado!

Are you ready to call Vail, CO, home? Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by the stunning White River National Forest, Vail offers unparalleled access to world-class outdoor activities year-round—skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, white-water adventures, and more. And with Denver just 100 miles to the east, you’re never far from city life while enjoying the beauty of mountain living.

At the Town of Vail, our employees often describe their experience as being part of a family. Our values-based culture thrives on teamwork, a shared commitment to shaping Vail’s future, and a deep pride in serving the community. Not only do you get to make a positive impact every day, but you’ll also enjoy the incredible lifestyle and cultural offerings that make Vail Valley an exceptional place to live, work, and play.

To learn more about our community and everything Vail has to offer, visit us at vailgov.com and explore the "Vail Information" section.

Year-Round Benefits

We take care of our full-time employees with a comprehensive benefits and compensation package that includes health and dental coverage, town-funded retirement, a 457 pre‑tax savings plan, life and survivor insurance, plus ski , tennis , and golf passes to enjoy the mountain lifestyle.

But that’s just the beginning—our additional benefits are designed to help you make Vail your permanent home. From employee housing options to homebuyer/renter assistance programs, day care support, education reimbursements, professional development opportunities, and much more, we’re committed to helping our team thrive in both work and life.