Utility Construction Operator

Position Summary 
 
Mustang Special Utility District (“Mustang”) is a local governmental entity providing water and water reclamation utility service in Denton, Collin, and Grayson Counties of North Texas. We are the largest Special Utility District in Texas and in one of the fastest-growing areas of the country. Comprising over  38,000 connections over 220 sq. miles. Our motto is Second to None! Providing Life’s Most Precious Resource. We’re looking for a key person to join our team as a Utility Construction Operator. 
 
The following consists of a general description of the expectations of this position and is not intended to be all-inclusive, but rather, to highlight and describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. This document should not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the incumbent. The incumbent will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other reasonably related job duties and responsibilities requested by their supervisor. Mustang reserves the right to revise or change the job duties and responsibilities, and this Job Description may be updated accordingly. This position is at-will, and this Job Description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. 
 
The Utility Construction Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment to install, repair, and maintain water utility systems. This role involves performing various construction tasks, adhering to safety standards, and collaborating with the construction crew to ensure projects are completed efficiently and effectively. The operator ensures that all activities are carried out in compliance with project specifications and safety regulations. 
 
Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities: 
 
The following “Essential Functions” are the primary job duties that incumbent must be able to perform unassisted or with some reasonable accommodation by the employer. 
 
Essential Functions:  

• Operate Heavy Machinery: Skillfully operate a range of heavy construction equipment, such as backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, and trenchers, to perform excavation, grading, and pipe installation tasks. 
• Maintenance and Inspection: Conduct routine maintenance and inspections on equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety. Report any mechanical issues to supervisors promptly.
• Site Preparation: Prepare construction sites by clearing obstacles, grading surfaces, and setting up equipment for water utility installations. 
• Pipe Installation: Assist in installing water pipes by accurately positioning machinery and providing support to the construction crew as needed. 
• Material Handling: Load and unload construction materials, equipment, and supplies safely and efficiently. 
• Adhere to Safety Protocols: Follow all safety guidelines and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries on the job site. Participate in safety training sessions and meetings. 
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential safety hazards and proactively mitigate risks on the job site. 
• Collaborate with Crew: Work closely with the construction crew and supervisors to ensure seamless task execution and adherence to project timelines. 
• Report Issues: Communicate equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or project challenges to supervisors immediately for timely resolution.

At Mustang Special Utility District, we are committed to embodying our core values encapsulated in the S.T.R.E.A.M. framework: Standards, Teamwork, Respect, Excellence, Adaptability, and Mastery. These values are the foundation of our culture and guide our actions, ensuring we serve our community with commitment and integrity. 

• Standards: We are committed to excellence in every task we undertake, reflecting the high standards we set for ourselves and our services. Each employee is responsible for upholding our commitment to quality, mirroring the dedication we would expect in our own families' service experiences. 
• Teamwork: Like a well-coordinated team in a relay race, we pass our responsibilities with trust and efficiency, knowing that our collective success depends on the support and collaboration of every member. 
• Respect: We treat each other with the same respect and kindness as a close friend or neighbor, fostering an environment of mutual respect where all voices are heard and valued. 
• Excellence: We aim for the pinnacle of excellence, like an athlete striving for a personal best, by leveraging our skills and knowledge to overcome challenges and deliver outstanding results. 
• Adaptability: As seasoned travelers adapt to new cultures, we remain flexible and open to change, ready to learn and grow from each new challenge and opportunity. 
• Mastery: Our journey towards mastery is akin to an artisan refining their craft, where continuous learning and integrity shape our professional path, ensuring we deliver services of the highest ethical standards.  

As part of the Mustang team, each employee is not just a contributor but a living example of these values. From the moment you join and throughout your journey with us, we all share the responsibility to embody and uphold these principles, ensuring the Mustang Special Utility District remains a place of excellence, respect, and shared success. 

Position Specifications:  
This position is classified as Non-Exempt under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is subject to the organization’s policies and procedures pertaining to overtime hours.

Education: 
 
Required: 

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position.

Preferred: 

• Completion of a vocational or technical training program in heavy equipment operation or a related field is preferred.   

Experience:  
 
Required: 

• At least 0-3 years of experience operating heavy construction equipment, preferably in utility or water pipe installation projects. 
• Demonstrated experience in adhering to safety protocols and maintaining a safe working environment. 

Preferred: 

• Over 3-5 years of extensive experience operating heavy equipment for large-scale utility construction projects. 
• Professional certifications such as OSHA Safety Certification or specific equipment operation licenses are highly preferred. 

 
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Technical Proficiency: Expertise in operating various heavy construction equipment used in utility projects, including backhoes, excavators, bulldozers, and trenchers. 
• Safety Awareness: In-depth knowledge of safety protocols and best practices to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment. 
• Mechanical Knowledge: Understanding of basic mechanics and maintenance procedures for construction equipment to perform routine inspections and minor repairs. 
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and address operational issues promptly, ensuring minimal disruption to project progress. 
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal communication skills to coordinate with the crew and supervisors, providing clear instructions and updates.  

Training/Professional Development Requirements: 

• Continuous Learning: Participate in training programs, workshops, and seminars to stay updated with the latest construction technologies and safety protocols. 
• Certification Maintenance: Obtain and maintain relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety certification and equipment operation licenses, to demonstrate compliance with industry standards. 
• Equipment Training: Engage in specialized training for operating advanced construction equipment to enhance technical skills and efficiency. 

Visual Acuity, Hearing, Speaking, Manual Dexterity: 

• Visual Acuity: Ability to see details at close range and at a distance for operating machinery, reading gauges, and inspecting work sites. 
• Hearing: Ability to listen to and understand information and instructions from team members and supervisors in noisy environments. 
• Speaking: Clear verbal communication skills to provide instructions and updates to the crew and supervisors. 
• Manual Dexterity: Proficient use of hands and fingers for operating controls, handling tools, and performing equipment maintenance tasks. 

Mental Demand: 

• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Ability to identify issues in equipment operation or site conditions and develop effective solutions. 
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail to ensure precise operation of machinery and adherence to project specifications. 
• Decision Making: Making informed decisions quickly, particularly in situations requiring immediate action or adjustments. 
• Stress Management: Managing stress and maintaining performance under high-pressure situations and tight deadlines.  

Environment/Working Conditions: 

• Outdoor Work: Primarily works outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and wind. Requires adaptability to work in diverse environmental conditions. 
• Fieldwork: Regularly operates machinery on construction sites, involving physical activity such as climbing into equipment, operating controls, and performing manual labor. 
• Safety Gear: Consistently wears protective gear such as safety shoes, gloves, hard hats, and hearing protection to ensure safety on the job site. 
• Flexible Hours: May need to work outside regular hours to meet project deadlines, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Requires flexibility to handle unforeseen challenges and ensure project success.  

Conditions Of Employment: 

• Must have a valid Class "C" Driver's License before employment (must obtain Texas Class "A" driver's license within 1 year of hire per state law). 
• Must pass a drug test, criminal history background check, and social security number verification check. 
• Must obtain a class D water license in 1 year