What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Operator position at Gerken Materials, Inc.?
Why Gerken Materials, Inc.?
At Gerken Materials, Inc., we’re part of something bigger — The Gerken Companies.
Our values guide how we work every day:
- Integrity in every decision, from operations to leadership
- Safety as a shared responsibility across every site and team
- Shared success that creates stability for our people and strong operational performance
- Professional development through training and empowering our teams to do great work
- Community support because we live where we work and care about the places we serve
If you’re looking for reliable work, a strong safety culture, and an opportunity to build a long‑term career, Gerken Materials, Inc. may be the right fit.
About the Role
We’re hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator to safely and efficiently operate heavy machinery in support of production and reclamation activities across multiple aggregate sites. This role is responsible for operating equipment such as bulldozers, long‑reach excavators, loaders, haul trucks, and skid steers, while also performing routine equipment maintenance and maintaining a safe, organized work environment. This is a full‑time position with travel required between sites.
What You’ll Do
- Operate a variety of heavy equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, loaders, haul trucks, and skid steers
- Support production and reclamation activities across multiple aggregate sites
- Perform routine equipment maintenance, including greasing, fueling, cleaning, and minor repairs
- Complete detailed equipment inspection reports as required
- Follow all safety protocols and MSHA regulations
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
- Travel between multiple job sites as needed
- Work outside normal business hours as operational needs require
- Maintain regular in‑person attendance
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and up to 100 pounds with assistance
- Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting
- Ability to safely access and navigate aggregate facilities, including climbing and descending ladders
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to safely operate heavy equipment for extended periods
What You Bring
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum of 3 years of experience operating finish grade bulldozers and excavators
- Ability to read topography maps, reclamation maps, and site plans
- Strong mechanical skills preferred
- Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
- Strong communication skills and ability to work well with supervisors and team members
- Dependability, positive attitude, and willingness to learn
- Commitment to safety and efficient work practices
What We Offer
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) investment program with employer match
- Employer‑paid life insurance
- Employer‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Holiday pay
- Employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program
If you’re ready to put your equipment skills to work and be part of a team that values safety, integrity, and long‑term success, we encourage you to apply.
Gerken Materials, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.