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Utility Operator Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

Repairs utility cuts or potholes; opens cuts in roadways Clean out debris and silt from channels ... Skill in: operating heavy and light equipment such as motor graders, back hoes, roto milling ...

The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system ... Will help in completing water utility construction projects. Will be responsible for learning all ...

The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system ... Will help in completing water utility construction projects. Will be responsible for learning all ...

Excavator Operator

Deming, NM · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

... utility, and sewer and water pipeline projects. We offer competitive salaries, profit sharing ... Operator. * Ability to Safely and Effectively operate various types and sizes of heavy civil ...

Trencher Operator

Deming, NM · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Overview We are seeking Excavator Operators to join our team in Hachita, NM and Columbus, NM ... utility, and sewer and water pipeline projects. We offer competitive salaries, profit sharing ...

Trencher Operator

Deming, NM · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Overview We are seeking Excavator Operators to join our team in Hachita, NM and Columbus, NM ... utility, and sewer and water pipeline projects. We offer competitive salaries, profit sharing ...

Trencher Operator

Deming, NM · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

We are seeking Excavator Operators to join our team in Hachita, NM and Columbus, NM. Barnard ... utility, and sewer and water pipeline projects. We offer competitive salaries, profit sharing ...

Showing results 41-60

Utility Operator information

See New Mexico salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in New Mexico is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in water treatment and safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, utility facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersMunicipalities, water service providers

Utility Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in utility environments and require safety and equipment operation certifications. However, Utility Operators often work across various utility sectors, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on water purification processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining public utility services and share similar credentials and work environments.

What are the duties of a utility operator?

A utility operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in the production and distribution of utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. They monitor systems, perform inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working with control panels and tools. Certification and knowledge of safety standards are typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, operational procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, valves, and relevant certifications such as OSHA or water/wastewater operator licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage issues and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of utility systems and help maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges utility operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Utility Operators often work rotating shifts, which can affect sleep patterns and personal schedules. Managing fatigue, maintaining consistent communication with team members across shifts, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues are common challenges. Effective strategies include adhering to a sleep routine, staying updated on shift handovers, and participating in regular safety and equipment training. Building strong teamwork and clear communication helps ensure smooth operations and minimizes downtime.

What is a utility operator?

A utility operator is a machinist who works with different types of utility systems, such as water piping, wastewater plants, electrical cabling, or manufacturing equipment. Typical job duties include installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. Qualifications for this job depend on the type of utilities but often include experience working with mechanical systems. Additional career skills include knowledge of specific types of machinery, such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in New Mexico? For Utility Operator jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in New Mexico are:
What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Utility Operator jobs? Cities in New Mexico with the most Utility Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in NM? For Utility Operator jobs in NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,597 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Village of Ruidoso

Ruidoso, NM • On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Classification Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator operates various heavy and light motorized equipment and vehicles as part of the Village's maintenance program. Responsible for running equipment to clear snow, base course, dirt work and other functions of the Street maintenance crew. Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating equipment and helping other employees in the construction, maintenance, and repair of pavements, installing parking lots, curbs, culverts, and gutters, dirt and gravel streets, street cleaning activities, sidewalks, drains, and a variety of miscellaneous labor assignments of a public works nature.

This position is under the general supervision of the Street Foreman, and a regular workweek is 40 hours, however this position may work an irregular schedule, long hours, weekends, and holidays, may be subject to emergency call-out. Non-exempt FLSA. Duties and Responsibilities The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.

The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. May operate a street sweeper to clean streets on a scheduled route; responds to sweep requests from patch crews, road crews, utility crews, and law enforcement. Operates a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to motor grader, rotomilling machine, paving machine, snow removal equipment, sweeper, dozer, loader, dump truck, transport rig, etc.

and backhoes for street and utilities maintenance and construction. Transports light mobile equipment, materials and operate equipment at the job site; repairs roadways, washouts; operates equipment for road construction. May work with concrete crews to prepare, place and finish concrete surfaces on roads, walkways, curb and gutters; may determine quantities for concrete projects; may coordinate ordering of material to the work site.

Repairs utility cuts or potholes; opens cuts in roadways Clean out debris and silt from channels, irrigation ditches and storm drain runoff; removes heavy silt debris from sidewalks, ramps, radius and streets; back fills washouts. Operates sand and salt spreader equipment; picks up hot mix or asphalt Picks up and disposes of large heavy debris Inspects, cleans and performs routine maintenance work on vehicles and light equipment; identifies and reports mechanical problems requiring additional repair; performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs on equipment. Performs minor repairs and maintenance of guard rails, wood bollards, pond and drainage areas, Participates in erosion and flood control work projects Sets up traffic control devices; follows safety regulations on all work zone and flagging sites, including placing barricades and cones.

Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled street maintenance task including: repairing Village Streets, potholes, culverts, and clean up flood damage. Chip seal roadways Hot mix construction of roadways Clean up after rain and wind storms Cleans and cares for tools and equipment Adheres to safety practices and standards, attends safety meetings and trainings. Completes equipment maintenance, inspections, and checklists Other Responsibilities or Job Requirements Performs manual labor activities when necessary to complete assigned projects Installation and maintenance of street signs and streetlights Completes log of work activities Fills out personal timesheet and appropriate paid leave slips, overtime slips, and any other required paperwork.

Ensures that any on-the job injury is reported immediately and followed up with appropriate forms and actions. Ensures any reports of harassment are immediately reported to the Street Director. The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees in this job.

Employees may perform other related duties and special projects as assigned. Physical Demands Ability to maintain physical condition and stamina appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods of time, driving or riding in vehicles. Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.

Occasional squatting or bending required. Frequently required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; reaching above shoulder level, talk or hear; and smell Visual acuity sufficient to perform essential job functions. Ability to perform tasks requiring manual dexterity Work Environment Possess ability to adapt to inclement weather conditions and/or situations whether day or night.

Work is performed outside with exposure to all weather conditions. Ability to drive, occasionally long distances. May work an irregular schedule, long hours, weekends, and holidays.

Ability to perform duties and adapt to flexible work schedules as established by management. May be called out when needed. Works around light and/or heavy equipment Works near moving mechanical parts and highly congested areas Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration.

Noise level could be moderate to loud in work environment. Ability to work in stressful environment and deal effectively with stress. Subject to Random Drug Screens DOT regulations require drug and alcohol testing and release of information Form (49 CFR Part 40) Travel Requirements Limited travel - ability to travel for activities such as classes, and workshops in and out of the service area, and overnight travel as required.

Minimum Qualifications High school education or equivalent required. New Mexico class B Commercial Driver's license required Two years experience in light and heavy construction equipment operation required Must be able to pass criminal history checks and must be willing to take and pass a drug/alcohol test and comply with Village "Drug Free" Policy. Licenses and/or Certifications Must possess and maintain valid New Mexico motor vehicle operator's permit of appropriate classification and endorsement as required.

Must agree to maintain a satisfactory MVR and minimum requirement of insurability as required by law. MVR background checks will be conducted by the Village. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of state and federal highway construction regulations; the policies, goals, and procedures of the Village of Ruidoso Street Department; safety policies and practices for working in the public right-of-way; heavy and light equipment operation methods, techniques, and safety practices; occupational hazard and safety precautions.

Ability to: operate and maintain all Street Department equipment including small, medium, and heavy maintenance and/or construction equipment; receive and follow oral and written instructions; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; to communicate and use interpersonal skills to interact with coworkers, supervisor, contractors, and general public to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work direction; read and interpret basic blue prints and construction documents; safely operate a motor vehicle and navigate across even and uneven surfaces; detect needed repairs and to make necessary operational adjustment on equipment. Skill in: operating heavy and light equipment such as motor graders, back hoes, roto milling machines, hot asphalt mixing plants, dump trucks, loaders, street sweepers, distributor trucks, rollers, and snow plows; understanding and following regulations, guidelines, and procedures; detecting and correcting improper use and care of materials and equipment; reading and interpreting work standards and specifications; manual labor and semi-skilled maintenance and repair activities; operating small hand and power tools and other job-related equipment and vehicles. Closing Statements Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position.

In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services. This job description is subject to change as the needs of the organization and Department change or the requirements of this position change.