Tractor Operator

What to expect:

• Operates farm-type tractors and towed or attached equipment such as gang mowers, aerators, plows, harrows, chippers, sprayers, disks, post hole diggers, front-end loading devices, movable dozer blades, and backhoes. Frequently operates towed or attached equipment from the seat of the tractor through hydraulic or mechanical controls. Equipment may be powered to maintain grounds by direct drive or a power takeoff. Makes multiple mechanical and hydraulic connections between the towed or attached equipment and the tractor and makes numerous equipment adjustments. Performs operator maintenance on tractors and equipment. Works on level or rolling terrain in such areas as open fields, golf courses, lawns, and along roadways.
• Utilizes hand-operated snow blowers, truck driven snowplows and ice chippers for snow/ice removal from sidewalks, steps, entrances and parking areas. Removes snow and ice by scraping, chipping, and/or spreading chemicals and/or sand.
• Provides World Class Customer Service with an emphasis on courtesy. Assists customers and communicates positively in a friendly manner. Takes action to solve problems quickly. Alerts the higher-level supervisor, or proper point of contact for help when problems arise. Adheres to safety regulations and standards. Promptly reports any observed workplace hazards, and any injury, occupational illness, and/or property damage resulting from workplace mishaps to the immediate supervisor. Adheres to established standards of actively supporting the principles of the EEO program and prevention of sexual harassment.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Skills and Knowledge: Work requires knowledge and ability to manipulate both tractor and equipment controls at the same time, e.g., operate tractors while raising and lowering gang mowers. Skill in operating boom slope mowers to cut grass on slopes while operating the tractor on level ground or along roads. Knowledge of equipment to make multiple connections from the equipment to the tractor, connecting mechanical drive shafts and hydraulic lines. Skill in performing tasks associated with grounds maintenance. Knowledge of operating characteristics of the tractor and towed or attached equipment. Knowledge of equipment capabilities. Possess or be able to obtain applicable state and/or government driver's licenses.
• Responsibility: Receives oral and written assignments from the supervisor or higher-grade worker. Performs duties according to established methods and special instructions. Selects appropriate gears, power settings, and speeds for equipment operations, based on various soil conditions. Makes judgments concerning lift capacity weight, and balance or load. Responsible for operator maintenance on tractors and equipment such as checking and replenishing fluids to proper levels, examining and changing filters, changing and sharpening blades, lubricating equipment and making necessary adjustments.
• Physical Effort: Work requires light to moderate physical effort in performing duties such as operating tractors and uncoupling and making couplings between tractors and towed vehicles. Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and arm and leg movement to work tractor controls. Lifts and carries objects up to 45 lbs independently and objects over 45 lbs with assistance.
• Working Conditions: Work is performed both inside and outside. Operators are subject to drafts, noise, and varying temperatures. Exposed to weather and temperature extremes outside, as well as high noise levels, vibrations, and jolts from tractor and towed equipment. Exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and fumes. Must follow safety practices and wear issued safety equipment.
• OTHER: This position is mission essential. May be required to work when the rest of the Base is closed or arrive on duty early and/or stay on duty after normal working hours to initiate maintenance repairs, remove snow, ice, etc.