Motor Vehicle Operator

Summary

See below for important information regarding this job.

Responsibilities

Operates straight-in-line trucks, tractors with semi-trailers or full trailers; and/or motor coaches, which typically have an approximate gross vehicle weight of more than 32,000 pounds.

Connects and disconnects the air brakes and electrical lines.

Maneuvers vehicles within close tolerance when driving and backing over uneven ground; in narrow or congested areas; between buildings and other vehicles; and when positioning vehicles at loading docks.

Directs the arranging of cargo or assists in the operation for proper weight distribution and loading/unloading sequence.

Performs operator maintenance tasks: checks gasoline, oil, water, air pressure, steering gear, horn, brakes, etc.

Completes trip tickets and fills out reports in case of accident.

May perform materials handling and packing duties to include receiving, storing, issuing, picking and packing a variety of materials.

May operate material handling equipment (MHE) such as forklifts to load/unload and move materials.

Qualifications

Applicants will be rated in accordance with the Office of Personnel Management Qualification Standard for Trades and Labor Occupations. Although a specific length of time and experience is not required, you must meet any screen-out element listed, and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties at the level for which you are applying. Emphasis is placed on how you gained the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time, and the required ability or potential to perform the job. Applicants who do not meet the screen-out element (SOE) will be eliminated from further competition. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Physical Effort: The employee exerts moderate physical effort because the large vehicles driven and accompanying heavy loads are difficult to handle and maneuver, e.g., upper body strength must be used to turn the steering wheel. Numerous hand and foot controls are often used simultaneously, e.g., clutch, accelerator, gearshift, and levers. Dual braking systems must be manipulated to avoid jackknifing. Since vehicles operate are large, the cab is often located considerably above ground level; therefore, some effort is required when entering and existing the vehicle. Bending, reaching, lifting, pulling, stooping, and exertion of physical effort is involved when attaching/detaching trailers and securing cargo. Performs work on hard surfaces and in work areas that require standing, stooping, bending and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions. Frequently lift and carry items weighing up to 70 lbs. Moderate physical effort is used in operating hand and foot controls when operating materials handling equipment. Working Conditions: The employee typically operates a vehicle while sitting behind a steering wheel in an enclosed or covered cab. Vehicles operated may or may not be equipped with a heater and/or air conditioning. Occasionally, the employee will work outdoors or in an enclosed structure, e.g., when performing safety inspections, making minor emergency repairs, observing the loading/unloading of cargo, filling fluid levels, etc. Vehicles are operated in all types of prevailing weather conditions and (1) in congested areas of a supply depot/center where there are frequent vehicles, materials handling, equipment, rail, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic; and/or (2) in traffic and at highway speeds on public roadways during the day or night. There is exposure to dirt, grease, fumes, and noise. There is the possibility of life-threatening accidents, cuts, bruises, abrasions, and broken bones. Work may be performed inside/outside a warehouse which may be cold, damp or hot. May be exposed to injury from mechanical equipment, falling objects, shifting loads or collisions. Safety and Health Requirements: Employee is required to wear safety clothing and equipment appropriate for the job and work area where assigned, as directed by the supervisor. Types of protective clothing and equipment include, but are not limited to the following: eye, respiratory, foot protection, and protective clothing (gloves, apron, coveralls, etc.). Other types may be required as deemed necessary by authorized management officials. Employees will be required to wear approved hearing protective devices, and an audiometric test will be conducted, as necessary, when working near or around noise hazardous areas, machinery, or equipment.