Heavy Equipment Operator Under general supervision, performs journey level work in the operation of heavy equipment used in the construction and maintenance of County roads and facilities; and performs related work as required. This is an Open Competitive/Countywide Promotional recruitment being conducted to fill a current full-time vacancy in the Community Services Department. The current vacancy is located in Gerlach, NV. Please only apply for this recruitment if you are available to work in Gerlach, NV on a full time and continuous basis. The list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur. Gerlach positions are covered under the WCEA Non-Supervisory contract, per Article 35 - Assignment Differential/Incline Transportation Allowance, subsection Assignment Differential (lncline/Gerlach/Vya): WCEA Non-Supervisory Contract 2024-2028 (updated rate pending formal contract language revision). This benefit currently includes an assignment differential of one hundred thirty-one dollars and three cents ($131.03) biweekly for all employees assigned at Gerlach except as provided therein contract. Employees who are provided living facilities by the County or are otherwise receiving living assistance from the County are not eligible for the above provisions.
Minimum Qualifications:
Three years of progressively responsible work experience in maintenance and construction work, including at least two years of experience in operating medium equipment; OR one year of experience as a Medium Equipment Operator and certification as a Heavy Equipment Operator by the Washoe County Roads & Stormwater Superintendent; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience. A valid Class A State of Nevada Commercial Driver's License with tanker endorsement is required at the time of application and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification. Must obtain NV Flagging and Traffic Control Technician certifications within six months of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification. Have experience with various types of heavy equipment used in a construction environment, preferably in road maintenance. Have experience working in inclement weather conditions, including performing snow removal operations. Be comfortable working in outdoor elements year-round. Have experience using safe work practice in a construction environment. Demonstrate commitment to public service and value exceptional customer service. Utilize effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Conditions of Employment:
The Washoe County Employees Association (WCEA) Non-Supervisory Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) covers the Heavy Equipment Operator position. Employees in this classification, as CDL holders, are subject to drug and alcohol testing according to applicable County policies. This vacancy is located in Gerlach, NV. Please be advised that housing is not provided for the selected incumbent. Background checks will be conducted on selected applicants through the State of Nevada and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Per the Washoe County Background and Reference Checks Policy, new and rehired employees are required to submit to a fingerprint based background investigation. Effective October 1, 2026, the $40.00 fee associated with this background investigation will be paid by the employee (if applicable) and deducted automatically from the first paycheck. Employment is contingent upon the results of the background check, although a record of conviction will not necessarily bar an applicant from employment. Washoe County requires its employees to reside in the state of Nevada or neighboring California communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe or Susanville as of their first day of work. Washoe County hires all new employees at the minimum rate of the salary range and eligible employees may receive an annual merit increase of 5% until they reach the maximum salary for the classification. Upon promotion, current Washoe County employees are placed at the minimum rate of the salary range for the higher classification of the new position OR a promotional calculation, whichever is greater.
Benefits:
Nevada PERS Retirement - Washoe County pays 100% of the PERS contribution for each benefit eligible employee. Health, Dental, Life and Vision Insurance - Washoe County contributes 100% of the premium for each employee. Washoe County also contributes 50% of the premium for dependent coverage.
Note:
New employees are automatically enrolled in the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account. Washoe County contributes up to $2,500 annually (based on benefit effective date and coverage tier) into the employee's Health Savings Account (HSA). Newly hired employees become eligible for health benefits after 30 days of employment. Deferred Compensation plans available12 Paid Holidays Vacation Accrual (120 hours per year, increasing with continued employment) Sick Leave (120 hours per year, increasing with continued employment) Longevity PayMerit Increases - Full-time employees eligible to receive an annual merit increase of 5% until the position classification's maximum salary is reached. Cost-of living adjustments - historical annual COLA increases for 2017-2026 have ranged from 2.5% - 5.0%There are no Social Security deductions (although a 1.45% deduction for Medicare is required) Nevada does not have state or local income tax*
