Utility Watercraft Operator

Job Introduction

This is skilled work operating a utility watercraft during collection of debris in or around waterways.  Bargaining unit position.

Nature Of Work

An employee in this class is responsible for performing tasks of average difficulty involving the safe operation of a utility watercraft and other mechanized equipment in support of the departmentâs activities removing floating debris and trash from local waterways. Under general supervision, employees are required to exercise initiative and independent judgement in completing assigned tasks as a member of a small team. Tasks at times are performed under hazardous conditions and require employees to be extremely alert and careful whenever operating assigned equipment. Employees might be required to perform manual and unskilled laboring tasks in the collection of debris and use of equipment being operated. Work is reviewed while in progress and upon completion by observation and through results obtained.

Examples of Duties

Safely operate a motorized watercraft and associated equipment including, (i.e., crane, conveyor belt, loader, etc). Â

Collect floating debris and remove it from waterway and surrounding areas; deploy floating boom and associated equipment used in collecting and removing debris.Â

Transport tools and equipment to and from sites to ensure efficiency and safety; insures that equipment is stored to prevent theft and vandalism; operates radio or telephone equipment to communicate with necessary parties; load and unload equipment on a truck/trailer; drive truck to a designate dump site and off load debris.Â

Maintain a safe work environment at all times; observe safety rules and obeys waterway/traffic laws.Â

Performs minor maintenance and servicing on vehicle/equipment being operated to include checking tire air pressure, motor oil, hydraulic oil, and fuel when required; visually check vehicle/equipment and report maintenance repair problems at the beginning and the end of the workday; assure that vehicle is properly equipped, serviced and cleaned.Â

Support special events which may require working a rotating shift, evenings, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed.Â

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Extensive Knowledge of:Â safe boating practices; the Hillsborough river and Tampa Bay waterways.

Working knowledge of: U.S. Coast Guard rules and regulations regarding small craft; water currents and tides and their effect on the operation of small craft and mounted equipment; traffic laws, occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions.Â

Some knowledge of: the use and care of hand and power tools and equipment related to assigned areas; the city and its geography.

Ability to: swim; identify hazardous materials; lift 50 pounds and perform work requiring physical strength and endurance; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; acquire skill and develop proficiency in the operation of diverse complex motorized maintenance equipment; work in indoor and/or outdoor environmental conditions that include exposure to extreme cold and/or hot temperatures; work in an environment which may include noise and vibration; wear required personal protective equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

Completion of accredited high school and three (3) years of progressively responsible experience operating a small to medium sized watercraft, or related experience; or an equivalent combination of related training and experience. Experience operating watercraft above 25 feet preferred.

Licenses or Certifications

Possession of a valid Florida commercial driverâs license, class A with Air Brakes or ability to obtain within 6 months. Possession of Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV-Six pack) Captain''s license or ability to obtain within six (6) months. Possession of or ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certifications within six months.

Examination

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

Conclusion

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