10/20/2000 69510

CORRECTIONS EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

DEFINITION: This is work in the skilled operation of tractor-trailer and other trucks used for freight terminal operations and the care, custody, and control of inmates.

An employee in this class operates tractor-trailer and other trucks, leads inmates in the loading and unloading of freight, and instructs them in the operation of the trucks. Duties include responsibility and accountability for the custody, discipline, and security of inmates assigned to the employee during working hours. Work involves the performance and instruction of inmates in the performance of minor equipment maintenance duties. Work includes the freight handling, record keeping, and materials storage normal of a major distribution center. Work is assigned with general instructions on a scheduled delivery basis, and the employee proceeds independently in making the deliveries.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Drives tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks to haul freight such as manufactured products, livestock, coal, farm produce, canned goods, and nursery stock.

Leads inmates in loading and unloading freight and its proper weight distribution on the trucks.

Instructs inmates in the actual operation of tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks.

Discusses inmate performance with the supervisor and prepares reports on inmate progress.

Maintains inmate attendance records.

Maintains order and discipline among inmate workers.

Searches inmates and work areas for contraband and insures the security of the work area.

Performs preventative maintenance work on equipment such as checking and adding oil, changing tires, and replacing lights.

Maintains equipment records.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the practices applied to the care and safe operation of tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks.

Knowledge of the state laws pertaining to the operation of tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks upon highways.

Knowledge of the principles of leading inmates in work activities.

Knowledge of individual and group behavior patterns.

Knowledge of search and inspection procedures.

Knowledge of security practices.

Skill in the operation of tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks.

Ability to perform preventative maintenance on tractor-trailer and single chassis trucks.

Ability to perform clerical tasks and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and inmates.

Ability to assign and review the work of inmate workers.

Ability to maintain order and discipline among inmate workers.

Freedom from disabling physical defects and sufficient physical strength to lift heavy objects and to work under adverse weather conditions.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Two years of experience in the operation of tractor-trailer trucks;

                                                                                                                                                         or

A combination of experience and training which affords the applicant the required knowledges, skills, and abilities.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License supplemented by the endorsements required by law for operation of equipment used by the Department of Corrections.