Job Summary
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy construction equipment in support of civil construction projects including roadway construction, site development, excavation, grading, and underground utility installation. Projects may include roads, highways, stormwater systems, water lines, sewer systems, and other infrastructure. The operator works closely with field crews, foreman, and project supervisors to execute excavation, grading, and material handling activities with precision and efficiency. This position requires strong situational awareness, adherence to safety procedures, and the ability to operate machinery in active construction environments. This is a safety sensitive position involving the operation of heavy machinery around workers, excavations, and traffic zones. Operators must consistently follow all company safety policies and regulatory requirements.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
The duties listed in this job description represent the essential functions of the position. The employee must be able to perform these essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position in accordance with applicable law.
Equipment Operation
- Safely operate heavy construction equipment including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, rollers, backhoes, skid steers, and other specialized equipment
- Perform excavation, trenching, grading, lifting, loading, and material placement operations
- Control equipment to achieve proper depth, grade, slope, and alignment
- Perform fine grading and rough grading activities according to project specifications
- Utilize GPS machine control systems and grade control technology where applicable
Construction Activities
- Execute excavation and trenching operations for underground utilities and site development
- Perform backfilling, compaction support, and site preparation activities
- Assist with loading, hauling, and placement of construction materials
- Coordinate closely with pipe crews, laborers, and supervisors to ensure safe and efficient work operations
- Follow project plans, grade stakes, and instructions provided by supervisors
Equipment & Maintenance
- Conduct pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections
- Monitor fuel levels, fluid levels, lubrication points, and wear components
- Identify and report mechanical issues, malfunctions, or maintenance needs
- Maintain equipment cleanliness and assist with basic preventative maintenance when required
Team Coordination
- Work closely with foreman, surveyors, pipe crews, and laborers to support project execution
- Assist with mobilization and demobilization of equipment on job sites
- Perform other related duties as assigned to support construction operations
Work Environment
Attendance & Scheduling Expectations
Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this position
Employees Must:
- Report to assigned job sites on time and prepared to work
- Work schedules determined by project needs, which may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, or overtime
- Travel to various project locations as required
Detailed Work Environment
This position regularly involves work in active construction environments, including:
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, wind, and snow
- Exposure to dust, vibration, noise, and construction materials
- Operation of heavy machinery near workers and structures
- Work near active roadways and traffic zones
- Work on uneven terrain and active excavation sites
Physical Demands
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Employees must be able to:
- Sit for extended periods while operating heavy machinery
- Climb into and out of equipment multiple times per shift
- Lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds
- Maintain manual dexterity to operate equipment controls and attachment
- Maintain visual awareness and depth perception for safe equipment operation
- Communicate effectively with crew members in noisy environments.
Safety & Compliance
- Maintain safe operation of equipment around workers, excavations, and structures
- Follow all OSHA, DOT, and company safety regulations and procedures
- Maintain awareness of surroundings and potential hazards when operating machinery
- Participate in safety meetings, training sessions, and toolbox talks
- Immediately report safety concerns, incidents, or hazardous conditions to supervisors
Required Qualifications & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment
- Experience in heavy civil construction, site development, or infrastructure projects
- Ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently in active construction environments
- Valid driver’s license required
- OSHA 10 certification preferred
Preferred Skills
- Experience with GPS machine control and grade control systems
- Experience with utility trenching, excavation, and grading operations
- Ability to read grade stakes, construction plans, and layout markings
- CDL license (preferred but not required)
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment
- Strong attention to safety and operational awareness
- Willingness to work in physically demanding conditions
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Up to $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
