OPEN DATE: November 12, 2025
CLOSE DATE: Until Filled
POSITION: LIGHT EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
SALARY: $31.89- $36.99/hour [Union Position Hiring Range - Step 1-6]
The City of Unalaska is accepting applications for the Light Equipment Operator position. Located in the number one commercial fishing port in the United States, the International Port of Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, Alaska, is a coastal community in the Eastern Aleutian Islands with a multi-cultural population of approximately 4,250 full-time residents and seasonal influxes from multiple commercial fishery operations.
The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all employee tasks in this classification. The duties shown are designed to provide a representative summary.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Light Equipment Operator performs semi-skilled work operating light-duty construction and maintenance equipment to assist in the upkeep, repair, and improvement of City streets, trails, drainage systems, and related infrastructure. This position supports a variety of tasks including snow removal, hauling, road maintenance, and drainage work. Work is performed under general supervision of the Roads Supervisor, with an emphasis on safe equipment operation, teamwork, and adherence to City safety standards.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Must be able and willing to operate light construction and maintenance equipment up to 26,000 lbs. for the purpose of plowing snow, hauling gravel and dirt, applying de-icing materials, and cleaning or locating drainage structures.
Must be able to perform routine inspections and light servicing of vehicles and tools to maintain equipment readiness.
Assist in the maintenance and minor repair of gravel and asphalt roads, trails, drainage systems, signage, and wooden bridges.
Ability to assist with seasonal operations such as road flagging, storm drain clearing, and snow shoveling.
Must understand and comply with OSHA regulations and standards of safety across all job activities within their workplace.
Must have the ability to learn and apply departmental rules, policies, procedures, and terminology related to road operations.
Having a basic knowledge of reading and understand construction drawings, site plans, and technical illustrations.
Ability to use hand and power tools to support construction and maintenance tasks.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
High school diploma or GED equivalent
Two (2) years experience on medium size road or utility construction/ maintenance equipment required
Combination of education and experience that could provide knowledge, skills and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis
LICENSES & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
**Must** have an Alaska CDL, class “A” with “N” endorsement at the time of hire OR Alaska CDL, class “B” with the ability to obtain a class “A” within six months of employment.
Must have medical certification and comply with yearly reviews - CDL holders only.
Ability to obtain a forklift certificate within 90 days of hire.
Ability to obtain a flagger’s certificate within 90 days of hire.
All required certifications and licenses must remain current throughout employment.
Able to perform labor-intensive work in outdoors and adverse conditions.
Must be able to work occasional emergency or non-traditional work hours as required.
Must be eligible to work in the US; Federal Law requires completion of the employment eligibility verification form (I-9).
Successfully pass a background test, which includes criminal, professional, reference checks, and a drug test. This position is subject to random drug testing.
BENEFITS:
100% employer-paid medical premiums (employee & dependents)
100% employer-paid basic life/AD&D insurance (employee & dependents)
100% employer-paid LifeMed insurance (employee only)
Relocation assistance (taxable) up to $7,000, plus airfare for the employee and one family member, if applicable
Annual travel allowance of $2,500 after the first year of employment
Longevity bonus of $2,000 starting on 3rd year anniversary
Personal Leave accrual starting at 16 hours a month
10 holidays and 3 floating holidays per year
Eligible for Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement
Eligible for 457 Plan with MissionSquare
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) - Employees can utilize the Health FSA and the Dependent Care FSA up to IRS max
Optional Term Life available
AFLAC plans available
Free membership for Parks, Culture, and Recreation (employee only)
TO APPLY: Download and complete the required forms found here: Employment Application Forms
Submit application package to:
CITY OF UNALASKA
Department of Administration
43 Raven Way, P.O. Box 610
Unalaska, AK 99685
Or by email to [email protected]
Questions? Please call us at (907) 581-1252
WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
