Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavation & Utilities)

Company Overview

James E Fulton & Sons, Inc. is a family-owned excavating and trucking contractor serving Southwest Michigan. For decades, we’ve built our reputation on quality work, outstanding service, and a committed team. Around Kalamazoo, people know our yellow-and-white fleet—equipment that’s visible, clean, and well-maintained.

We focus on excavation, site work, and underground utilities within roughly 50 miles of Kalamazoo, MI. Our crews take pride in turning out work we’re proud to drive by years later.

The Opportunity

This role is for a well-rounded Heavy Equipment Operator who wants to do more than just sit in the cab. You’ll run excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers on excavation and utility projects, and you’ll also jump in with the crew when needed to keep the job moving.

If you take pride in smooth grades, safe trenches, and a clean machine—and you like the idea of steady local work with a tight-knit crew—this is a chance to build long-term with a respected contractor.

What You'll Do

• Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently on excavation and underground utility projects.
• Handle grading, trenching, backfill, and compaction work to meet plans, stakes, and foreman directions.
• Assist with underground utility installation, including pipe work, hydrants, and related structures as needed.
• Jump in with labor tasks when the crew needs hands—pipe support, hydrant assembly, site cleanup, and general jobsite support.
• Perform daily inspections, basic maintenance, and cleaning so equipment stays safe, reliable, and job-ready.

What Success Looks Like

• Within the first 3–6 months, you’re confidently running multiple machines on our typical excavation and utility jobs with minimal supervision.
• Jobs are completed on grade, on schedule, and without rework due to equipment operation or communication issues.
• Foremen and crew know they can count on you to step in wherever needed—operating iron, handling tools, or helping with utility installation.
• Your equipment passes inspections, stays clean and organized, and you consistently document time and basic job information using our mobile app.

What We're Looking For

• 5 years of heavy equipment operating experience in excavation, site work, or utilities, with the ability to run excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers.
• Experience with grading and underground utilities, plus ability to read/interpret grade stakes and basic plans; GPS/total station experience or willingness to learn.
• Valid driver’s license, dependable attendance, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather and meet the physical demands of the job.
• Team-first, safety-focused mindset—honest, reliable, and willing to help wherever the job and crew need you.

Compensation and Benefits

• Pay: $25 to $36 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Health insurance.
• 401(k).
• Full-time, W-2 employment with day shift, job-based start/end times, plus overtime and occasional weekends (especially during snow or emergency work).

How to Apply

If this sounds like the kind of work and crew you’d be proud to be part of, apply with your resume or a brief summary of your experience operating excavation and utility equipment. Qualified candidates will be contacted to discuss next steps.