Heavy Equipment Operator
Position Summary: DeCarlo Demolition Company is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to support demolition, excavation, site clearing, material handling, and recycling operations. The ideal candidate will have experience operating a variety of heavy equipment in active construction and demolition environments while maintaining productivity, equipment care, and jobsite safety.
This position will primarily support projects located throughout Eastern Iowa and may require travel and overnight stays depending on project location and schedule.
This position requires dependable attendance, attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a demolition crew.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently including excavators, high-reach demolition excavators, wheel loaders, skid steers, dozers, material handlers, and support equipment
- Perform structural demolition, selective demolition, loading, sorting, grading, and site cleanup operations
- Follow demolition plans, site instructions, and safety procedures
- Inspect equipment daily before operation and complete pre-trip inspection reports
- Identify maintenance or repair needs and report issues immediately
- Maintain production goals while minimizing damage to surrounding structures and utilities
- Load trucks and trailers safely and efficiently
- Assist with rigging, torching, cleanup, and labor activities when equipment operation is not required
- Work around asbestos abatement, environmental remediation, and recycling operations safely and professionally
- Maintain clean and organized jobsites
- Follow all OSHA, DOT, EPA, company safety policies, and client requirements
- Participate in safety meetings and training programs
- Work extended hours and occasional weekends when project schedules require
Qualifications – Required
- Minimum 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience
- Experience in demolition, excavation, or construction operations
- Ability to operate equipment safely in tight or high-risk environments
- Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured by our insurance carrier
- Ability to travel throughout Eastern Iowa for project assignments
- Strong understanding of jobsite safety practices
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to lift 50+ pounds and perform physical labor when needed
- Reliable transportation and dependable attendance
Qualifications – Preferred
- CDL Class A or B
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification
- Ability to read site plans and follow grade stakes or instructions
- Experience with high-reach demolition equipment
- Experience loading/unloading heavy equipment
- Mechanical knowledge and minor equipment maintenance skills
- Experience with shears, processors, grapples, and hydraulic attachments
Work Environment
- Outdoor construction and demolition jobsites
- Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, and varying weather conditions
- Work around heavy machinery, elevated structures, and active demolition zones
- Fast-paced production environment requiring constant situational awareness
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb on and off equipment multiple times daily
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel, and walk for extended periods
- Good hand-eye coordination and depth perception
- Ability to work safely at heights and around unstable structures Safety Expectations
- Follow all company and OSHA safety regulations
- Required PPE must be worn at all times
- Stop unsafe work practices immediately
- Report accidents, near misses, and equipment issues promptly
- Maintain constant awareness of surroundings and crew locations
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation is based on experience and qualifications.
- Competitive hourly pay
- Overtime opportunities
- Health insurance
- Paid time off on an accrual basis
- 401k with company match after your first year
- Company-provided PPE
Equal Opportunity Employer
DeCarlo Demolition Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values hardworking individuals committed to safety, teamwork, and professionalism.
Pay: From $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
