Heavy Equipment Operator – Highway Department

Heavy Equipment Operator – Highway Department

The Town of Cohasset is seeking a dependable Heavy Equipment Operator to join the Department of Public Works’ Highway team. This full-time, union position performs equipment operation and manual work supporting the construction, maintenance, and repair of Town roads, infrastructure, and public facilities.

The successful candidate will work safely, communicate effectively, and collaborate with the Highway team and other Public Works divisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including front-end loaders, backhoes, sweepers, and other vehicles and machinery used in public works projects.

• Perform highway construction, maintenance, and repair work, including manual labor and the use of pneumatic and hand tools.

• Conduct routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, and safety checks.

• Follow operating procedures, safety requirements, and supervisory instructions.

• Provide support to other Public Works divisions as needed.

• Respond to emergencies and work outdoors in adverse weather conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, plus at least two years of advanced technical or vocational training and experience operating heavy equipment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Employees hired without a CDL must obtain it within one year of their hire date. CDL costs are eligible for reimbursement after three years of employment.

• Valid 2B, 4E, and 4G Hoisting Engineer’s Licenses, which may be obtained after hire.

• Valid DOT medical card, which may be obtained after hire. 

Schedule & Compensation

This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week union position, with availability for emergency response required. The position is classified as Grade PW1 without a CDL or Grade PW2 with a CDL.

Hourly rate: PW1 ($26.72 - $31.93), PW2 ($29.38 - $35.11)

Benefits are provided in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement and Town policies.

Pre-Employment Requirements

All offers are conditional upon CORI, a pre-employment physical/drug test, and other background checks where required.

How to Apply

Submit your application through the Town of Cohasset Employment Portal.

Application deadline: Open Until Filled. 

The Town of Cohasset is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Applicants requiring accommodation during the application or selection process may contact Human Resources at

hr@cohassetma.gov