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Grading Heavy Equipment Operator II - HEO 2

Sunrock
Durham, NC Full Time
POSTED ON 1/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/7/2026
1K Sign-On Bonus Opportunity

Location: Raleigh–Durham & Surrounding Areas

Experience Level: 3 Years or 6,000 Hours

About The Role

Sunrock is seeking a skilled Grading Heavy Equipment Operator II (HEO 2) to support grading and utility construction projects. This role requires 3 years of experience or at least 6,000 hours of grading heavy equipment operation in civil construction environments.

The HEO 2 operates equipment safely and efficiently, performs rough to intermediate grading, and supports finish and fine grading activities under direction from senior operators or foremen. This role is ideal for operators progressing toward expert-level operation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, backhoes, and compactors
  • Perform rough and intermediate grading for site development and utility work
  • Assist with finish grade and fine grade work under guidance
  • Support trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and compaction operations
  • Read and follow grade stakes, cut/fill requirements, and project plans
  • Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and perform basic maintenance
  • Identify mechanical or safety issues and report promptly
  • Work collaboratively with foremen, operators, and crew members
  • Follow all OSHA, NCDOT, and company safety standards

Minimum Qualifications

  • 3 years of experience OR 6,000 hours of heavy equipment operation
  • Experience supporting grading and/or underground utility construction
  • Ability to read grade stakes and understand elevations and slopes
  • Demonstrated safe operation of multiple equipment types
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Valid North Carolina Driver’s License required

Skills & Competencies

  • Safe and efficient equipment operation
  • Developing finish-grade and fine-grade skills
  • Understanding of jobsite sequencing and production flow
  • Strong communication with foremen and crew members
  • Attention to detail and safety awareness
  • Willingness to learn and advance skill level

Work Environment

  • Outdoor construction environment with exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise
  • Work around moving equipment, uneven terrain, and active job sites
  • Physically active role requiring climbing, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs

What We Offer

  • Highly competitive pay is based on skill and certifications, paid weekly
  • 2 weeks of PTO, Increases up to 4 weeks with service
  • 8 paid holidays start on day 1
  • Guaranteed 40 hours (Winter)
  • Up to $1000 sign on bonus for verified experience
  • Ability to earn extra cash with $1000 referral program
  • Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life)
  • Disability and other benefits that pay CASH directly to you
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • Safety Incentive Program
  • Apprenticeship and Lead/Foreman Development Programs
  • Well-maintained modern equipment.

Apply today to put your fine grading skills to work on projects that shape North Carolina’s future.

Job Locations: Employees are expected to have their own transportation to the jobsite and be there by starting time. Start time may be adjusted due to seasons, job type, or schedule. Typically, this is 7 AM. Sunrock hires and places new hires based off open positions needed on our crews. Sunrock cannot guarantee that employees will work close to where they live. Nor can we make changes to our crews to accommodate such requests.

Guaranteed Time: You must be employed for 90 days to be eligible for assured time. Between March 15 th and December 15 th , employees are assured 24 hours. Employees must be willing and prepared to work to qualify for assured time. Between December 15th and March 15 th , employees are assured 40 hours. Again, employees must be willing and prepared to work to qualify for assured time.

Sunrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, citizen status, or any other legally protected status under local, state, or federal law.

Salary : $22 - $28

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