Utility Laborer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Laborer/Driver
Department: Smithfield Department of Public Works
Position Type: Full‑Time • Union Position (LIUNA)

About the Position:
The Smithfield Department of Public Works is seeking a dedicated and hardworking Laborer/Driver to join our team. Under the general supervision of the Working Lead Person, this position performs daily labor and driving tasks that support the maintenance and operation of Town roads, sidewalks, storm drainage systems, public buildings, parks, and other municipal facilities. The work requires safe and efficient operation of trucks and motorized equipment, as well as heavy manual labor in a variety of outdoor conditions.

** CDL License Required for this position**

Key Responsibilities:
• Perform manual labor related to the maintenance and repair of town roads, bridges, sidewalks, curbing, driveway aprons, causeways, rights‑of‑way, drainage systems, retention basins, and sanitary sewer systems.
• Carry out tasks such as asphalt preparation, shoveling, grading, raking, operating pneumatic tools, compactors, and asphalt/cutoff saws.
• Perform public works activities such as brush and tree cutting, chipping, roadside litter pickup, mowing, sign installation, pavement patching, equipment cleaning, and general maintenance.
• Safely operate a tow‑behind auto‑feed wood chipper.
• Perform interior and exterior painting, light carpentry, janitorial work, and assist with moving furniture or equipment in municipal buildings.
• Load and unload trucks as part of building and grounds maintenance.
• Conduct seasonal snow plowing and sanding of roads, sidewalks, and parking lots, often for extended periods.
• Operate various types of equipment, including 6‑wheel dump/plow trucks (air brakes, standard transmissions), street sweepers, tractors/mowers, wood chippers, diesel compressors, rollers, and compactors.
• Assist with maintenance and repair of municipal equipment, vehicles, sanders, and plows.
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (safety vests, glasses, hearing protection, hard hat, steel‑toed boots, foul‑weather gear).
• Perform additional related duties as assigned by the Director of Public Works or designee.

Minimum Qualifications:
• High School diploma or GED.
• Valid Rhode Island CDL (Class B) with air brake endorsement.
• Minimum 3 years of experience driving with a Class B CDL preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in municipal road, utility, or equipment maintenance.
• Minimum 3 years of snow plowing/snow removal experience.
• Knowledge of construction practices, tools, equipment, and safety procedures.
• Ability to work effectively, tactfully, and respectfully with the public.
• Ability to write reports, daily logs, material lists, and related documentation.

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds above waist level.
• Ability to walk, stand, kneel, crouch, climb, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to traverse uneven terrain and safely enter/exit vehicles.
• Ability to operate hand and power tools and perform heavy physical labor for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

Working Conditions:
• Work in adverse and extreme weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and high winds.
• Frequent outdoor work on varied terrain including grass, asphalt, concrete, and trench areas.
• Required to work nights, weekends, and overtime during severe weather events or emergency conditions (including on‑call status).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Town of Smithfield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

The Town of Smithfield encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request.