What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Operator [Can read and work from construction plans] position at Mountain States Snowcats?
Heavy Equipment Operators are the core of everything we do. You'll operate our fleet of excavators, dozers, loaders, and snowcats on active civil construction and snow removal projects — working alongside a skilled crew in one of Colorado's most dynamic mountain environments. This is a full-time, year-round position with real stability and a clear path forward.
Responsibilities
- Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, snowcats, and other heavy equipment with precision and efficiency
- Execute civil construction tasks: site preparation, grading, excavation, backfill, and material placement
- Operate snow removal equipment on commercial properties and job sites in all winter conditions
- Inspect equipment before and after every shift — fluids, tracks, hydraulics, attachments, safety systems
- Perform minor field maintenance; communicate mechanical issues to the field mechanic promptly
- Maintain accurate equipment logs and daily timecard entries
- Collaborate with crew leads, laborers, and site managers to keep projects on schedule
Qualifications
- [Required] Must be able to find grade and read construction plans
- Minimum 1 year hands-on experience operating excavators, bulldozers, loaders, or equivalent machinery
- Demonstrated ability to operate safely in varied terrain and weather conditions including snow and extreme cold
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record required; CDL a plus
- Working knowledge of equipment safety protocols and basic maintenance procedures
- Reliable, punctual, and a strong collaborator — our crews depend on each other
- Comfortable working at elevation and in mountain weather environments year-round
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Compensation & Benefits
$30.00 – $45.00 per hour, depending on experience. Benefits include employer-sponsored health insurance, 401(k) with matching, paid time off, up to $2,500 relocation assistance, company-paid Winter Park Resort ski season pass, and employee referral program. Company vehicle for Lead Operators. Significant overtime opportunity.
Schedule: 40 hours/week minimum. Overtime may be required during active construction and snow removal seasons. Weekend and after-hours shifts possible based on project and weather demands.
Salary : $30 - $45