Equipment Operator

Position Summary

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment and machinery to support industrial construction, maintenance, and site development projects. This position works under the direction of the Foreman and Superintendent to perform excavation, material handling, lifting, grading, site preparation, and other assigned tasks while maintaining the highest standards of safety, productivity, and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate assigned heavy equipment, including excavators, skid steers, loaders, dozers, telehandlers, forklifts, aerial lifts, rollers, and other equipment as qualified.
• Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation inspections of assigned equipment.
• Report equipment defects, maintenance needs, accidents, or unsafe conditions immediately to supervision.
• Operate equipment in accordance with manufacturer recommendations, company policies, and site-specific requirements.
• Assist with excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, material handling, demolition, and site preparation activities.
• Load, unload, transport, and stage materials, tools, and equipment.
• Work safely around underground utilities, structures, overhead power lines, personnel, and other equipment.
• Follow grade stakes, layout markings, work plans, and supervisor instructions.
• Perform minor preventative maintenance, cleaning, fueling, and lubrication of assigned equipment.
• Assist labor crews with manual tasks when equipment operation is not required.
• Follow all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and site-specific safety requirements.
• Participate in Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), pre-task planning, and daily toolbox talks.
• Wear and properly maintain all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Perform quality work while maintaining productivity and protecting company equipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience operating heavy equipment in industrial, commercial, or construction environments preferred.
• Knowledge of safe equipment operating practices and construction site safety.
• Ability to perform daily equipment inspections and recognize mechanical deficiencies.
• Ability to read grade stakes, basic construction drawings, and work instructions preferred.
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe work practices.
• Valid driver's license required; Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred for certain equipment.
• NCCER Heavy Equipment Operator certification or other applicable equipment certifications are preferred but not required.
• Strong communication skills, situational awareness, and attention to detail.

Work Requirements

• Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier materials with assistance or mechanical equipment.
• Sit, stand, walk, climb, bend, kneel, and perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
• Safely enter and exit heavy equipment multiple times throughout the workday.
• Work around heavy equipment, moving machinery, noise, dust, vibration, and changing construction site conditions.
• Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Work overtime, nights, weekends, shutdowns, and emergency schedules as required.
• Travel to project sites as required.
• Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.