
location_on2, Quincy Street, Union Square, Somerville, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, 02143, United States
The City of Somerville is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer dedicated to serving a diverse community. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other protected category. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The City is committed to providing auxiliary aids, services, and reasonable modifications to ensure accessibility for all qualified individuals with disabilities.
The Special Heavy Motor Equipment Operator/Water plays a vital role in the construction, maintenance, and operation of the City's water system. This position is essential for ensuring the reliability and safety of our water infrastructure, from routine maintenance to critical emergency response. The incumbent will work in a dynamic environment that requires agility, physical strength, and the ability to function in close quarters under varying weather conditions.
In this role, you will operate heavy motor equipment with a high degree of skill and efficiency, performing skilled tasks such as the installation, repair, and replacement of pipes, fire hydrants, valves, and mains. You will be responsible for digging, bracing, backfilling, and tamping excavations, as well as installing and repairing asphalt and concrete. A key part of your day involves responding to system failures and crisis situations, including locating problem areas, shutting off water service, and addressing flooding conditions by entering account holder premises to check status or perform meter maintenance.
Safety is paramount. You will ensure all safety practices are adhered to, including work zone safety, confined space entry, and excavation safety. You will also be responsible for the safe collection and transport of water samples in compliance with EPA and State DEP regulations. Beyond technical operations, you will serve as a lead in customer response and problem resolution, establishing effective working relationships with the public, co-workers, and superiors.
This is a safety-sensitive position. Candidates must successfully pass a driving history check and complete pre-employment drug screening and a physical examination prior to employment. All employees are required to obtain MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) clearance and complete Conflict-of-Interest Law Education training for municipal employees.
The City of Somerville values diversity and inclusion. We provide written materials in alternative formats and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures free of charge upon request. Individuals requiring auxiliary aids for effective communication, such as CART or ASL, should contact the ADA Coordinator at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@somervillema.gov.
Skills: Class B License, Air-Break Endorsement, Hoisting License, D1 Water Distribution License, Front-End Loaders, Backhoes, Gate And Valve Exercising Equipment, Compacting Equipment, Skid Steer Loaders, Engineering Blueprints.
Education: Graduation from high school, vocational school, or GED required.
Work model: On-site
2, Quincy Street, Union Square, Somerville, Middlesex County, Massachusetts, 02143, United States
Somerville, Massachusetts
The City of Somerville operates as a government administration entity based in Somerville, Massachusetts. Under the leadership of Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City Council, the organization manages municipal operations for a population of approximately 81,000 residents. The city covers 4.1 square miles and maintains a distinct position adjacent to Boston and Cambridge, serving as a central hub within the New England region. Local governance has received significant external validation, including a Boston Globe designation for best-run city status in Massachusetts and multiple federal recognitions. These accolades encompass top rankings as a Walk Friendly Community, a title as a Biker's Paradise, three All America City awards, and four designations as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People in the United States. The city also holds federal recognition for its Shape Up Somerville healthy living initiative.
The community serves a diverse demographic where over 60 languages are spoken in public schools. This population supports a vibrant ecosystem characterized by a high density of artists, independent local businesses, and green-tech innovation hubs. The area leverages its proximity to major institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Tufts while maintaining a strong blue-collar and immigrant heritage. The city functions as a key part of the broader Boston area's history, technology, and culture, offering residents access to top-tier schools and a thriving arts and maker community.
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