Highway Equipment Operator (Light & Heavy Classification)

Highway Equipment Operator (Light & Heavy Classification)
(Opportunities available at both Light Equipment and Heavy Equipment levels)
Department: Highway
Job Codes: HWY/6 (Light) | HWY/5 (Heavy)
Labor Grade: 11 (Light)- $24.00-$37.01/ 12 (Heavy)- $25.15-$38.67
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Highway Operations Supervisor
Build the roads. Clear the storms. Keep Hanover moving.
The Town of Hanover is seeking skilled and motivated equipment operators to support the maintenance of streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and drainage systems. Whether you are an experienced heavy equipment operator or an emerging professional ready to grow into a higher classification, this is an opportunity to build a long-term municipal career maintaining the infrastructure that keeps our community safe and accessible year-round.
Positions may be filled at either the Light Equipment Operator or Heavy Equipment Operator level depending on qualifications and licensure.
Why Join Us & Benefits – Town of Hanover, NH
Work year-round in a hands-on, team-oriented environment
Play a direct role in maintaining safe roads and infrastructure
Gain experience operating a wide range of municipal equipment
Opportunities for growth and advancement within the Highway Division
Competitive compensation and comprehensive municipal benefits, including:
Health and dental insurance
Participation in the New Hampshire Retirement System
Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
Town-paid disability and life insurance
Ongoing training and certification opportunities
This position operates light and/or heavy equipment in the repair and maintenance of town streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and drainage systems. Operators support road construction, storm response, drainage improvements, and infrastructure maintenance projects. Successful performance contributes directly to a safe, well-maintained town infrastructure.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Operate equipment in the maintenance and repair of streets and drainage systems, including:
Dump trucks
Motor graders
Excavators
Front-end loaders
Backhoes
Bulldozers
Street sweepers
Brush chippers
Boom mowers
Operate snow plows and sanding equipment during winter operations
Install drainage pipes and catch basins
Patch potholes and utility cuts
Build forms; pour and finish concrete; lay brick and block
Remove tree hazards
Install and maintain road and street signs, including seasonal decorations
Assist in traffic control at work sites
Respond to customer service requests and complete work orders
Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle and equipment inspections
Maintain assigned equipment (oil changes, filters, blades, chains, etc.)
Operate hand and power tools, including chainsaws
Perform related duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of street and drainage construction and maintenance techniques
Knowledge of town safety policies, OSHA standards, and traffic regulations
Knowledge of town geography, street names, and locations
Skill in operating and maintaining heavy and light equipment
Skill in using hand and power tools
Ability to prioritize and organize work
Strong oral and written communication skills
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Intermittent sitting, standing, bending, crouching, and stooping
Frequent lifting of light and occasional heavy objects
Use of equipment requiring dexterity
Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions
Exposure to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts
Use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves required
Minimum Qualifications
Light Equipment Operator (HWY/6)
High school diploma or equivalent
One to two years of related experience or equivalent apprenticeship/internship
Valid New Hampshire driver’s license
To obtain designation as a Heavy Equipment Operator must be capable of performing the essential duties and obtain a Class A CDL with Trailer Endorsement
Heavy Equipment Operator (HWY/5)
High school diploma or equivalent
One to two years of related experience operating heavy equipment
Valid New Hampshire driver’s license
Possession of a Class A CDL with Trailer Endorsement.
Career Pathway Opportunity
The Town supports advancement from Light Equipment Operator to Heavy Equipment Operator. Employees hired at the Light level are expected to obtain required licensure and demonstrate competency to advance. Training and development support through an in-house CDL training program is provided to help qualified employees progress.
Hours of Work:
40 hours a week: 7:00am- 3:30pm Mon-Fri
Union, Non-Exempt Position
Winter Storm cleanup hours may vary to include evenings and weekends.
When the roads are clear, the drainage works, and the town keeps moving — your work makes it happen.
If you’re ready to operate with purpose and build a career maintaining the backbone of Hanover, apply today and join the Highway team.
The Town of Hanover is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Employment type
Full-Time 40 HR (PW)

Work arrangement
No