What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Operator - Civil Construction / Underground Utilities position at HARDSCAPE CONCEPTS LLC?
About the Role
HarCon is a commercial sitework and utility installation company serving Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties. We're looking for an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to support our underground utility and sitework crews on active heavy civil projects - including excavation, trenching, drainage, water main, sanitary sewer, and force main installation.
What You'll Do
- Operate excavators, backhoes, dozers, skid steers, and/or compaction equipment as assigned
- Excavate and grade trenches for storm drainage, water main, sanitary sewer, and force main installation
- Set and maintain grade using laser levels, transits, GPS/machine control (if equipped), or grade stakes
- Load/unload trucks and place bedding, backfill, and select fill material per spec
- Perform site grading, utility trench backfill, and compaction
- Work safely alongside pipe crews, laborers, and foremen in active trench and excavation zones
- Conduct daily pre-operation equipment inspections and basic maintenance checks
- Follow all OSHA trenching, excavation, and equipment safety requirements
Qualifications
- 2 years of heavy equipment operation experience in civil construction or underground utility work
- Proficiency operating excavators (required); experience with dozers, backhoes, or skid steers a plus
- Ability to read civil/utility plans, grade sheets, and stakeout information
- Working knowledge of OSHA trench and excavation safety standards
- Experience working around active underground utility installation (drainage, water, sewer, force main) strongly preferred
- Valid driver's license; CDL a plus
- Reliable attendance and ability to work as part of a crew
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Ability to mount/dismount equipment repeatedly throughout the day
- Comfortable working near trenches, shoring, and other heavy equipment
- Willingness to work extended hours and occasional weekends as project demands require