Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator
Status: Full-Time Non-Exempt (hourly)
Hours: Monday through Friday (hours vary)
Supervisor: Superintendent
Location: Job Sites are located throughout the San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties
Pay Range: $22.00 - $30.00/hour, DOE
Benefits Package: Medical, Matching 401k, Tuition Assistance, Vacation and Holiday pay
Certain projects undertaken by Joseph Engineering are governed by California or federal prevailing wage laws. When working on these specific public works or government-contracted projects, you will be compensated at the mandated prevailing wage rate, including applicable fringe benefits, for the exact classification of work performed.
Position Summary
The Equipment Operator (Grader Operator) is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment used in excavation and underground utility construction while also performing labor duties as needed to support field operations. This role plays a key part in maintaining productivity, safety, and quality on construction projects.
Core Responsibilities
- Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, skid steers, backhoes, dozers, rollers, and other machinery, safely and efficiently.
- Perform excavation, grading, trenching, loading, backfilling, and material handling operations.
- Assist with labor duties including pipe installation, compaction, cleanup, and jobsite preparation when equipment operation is not required.
- Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
- Follow utility markings, trench safety requirements, and project specifications.
- Work closely with spotters, laborers, and supervisors to maintain safe operations.
- Maintain awareness of underground utilities and surrounding jobsite hazards.
- Confirm the presence of utility lines and other potential hazards in the area.
- Determine the safest path for machinery and personnel.
- Take pictures of the site before starting excavation to document existing conditions.
- Move any trucks or equipment away from the work area that could be struck during operation.
- Continuously check for trench safety, ensuring proper shoring and safety measures are in place.
- Ensure equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and company safety procedures.
- Maintain clean and organized equipment and work areas.
- Comply with all company safety policies and Cal/OSHA regulations.
- Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
Qualifications and Required Skills
- Minimum 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
- Experience in excavation, underground utility work, grading, or related construction operations preferred.
- Knowledge of trench safety and excavation practices.
- Ability to read grade stakes, utility markings, and construction plans preferred.
- Strong attention to safety and situational awareness.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Valid California driver’s license required; CDL preferred.
- Ability to work overtime and travel to various job sites as needed.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, climb, bend, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
- Ability to safely enter and exit heavy equipment multiple times daily.
- Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to perform repetitive hand and foot movements required to operate equipment controls.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
- Ability to work safely around heavy equipment, trenches, noise, vibration, dust, and moving machinery.
- Ability to maintain visual and auditory awareness necessary for safe equipment operation.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
This job description is not all inclusive. Joseph Engineering reserves the right to change job duties and essential job functions as required by business necessity. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis, without the need for sponsorship.
Joseph Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, California, or local laws. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Pre-Employment Requirements: Successful applicants must pass a drug screen and background check before beginning employment.
Pay: $24.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
Work Location: In person
