Apprentice - Heavy Equipment Operator

Earth Work Solutions; La Barge (WY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid apprenticeship

Competitive pay raises

Benefits package

Per diem

Hands-on training

Modern equipment

Career opportunities in WY

Job summary

Earth Work Solutions in Wyoming is seeking Apprentice Heavy Equipment Operators to join our LaBarge team. This paid Registered Apprenticeship provides hands‑on training, classroom instruction, competitive pay, benefits, and a clear career path in heavy civil construction.

As you learn, you will operate equipment such as scrapers, rollers, backhoes, and water trucks under supervision, participate in safety meetings, and complete required coursework to become a qualified operator across Wyoming

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Construction, farming, ranching, oilfield, military, or labor experience preferred but not required.
• Training provided through apprenticeship.

Responsibilities

• Learn to safely operate heavy equipment including scrapers, rollers, articulated haul trucks, backhoes, and water trucks.
• Assist with excavation, grading, earthmoving, trenching, and site preparation.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and assist with basic maintenance.
• Follow project plans, supervisor instructions, and all safety requirements.
• Participate in apprenticeship training, safety meetings, and required classroom instruction.
• Complete equipment inspections, daily logs, and other required documentation.
• Perform general labor duties as needed to support project operations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Safety minded

Reliable attendance

Communication skills

Outdoor work

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Who We Are

Since 1970, Earth Work Solutions has been building Wyoming's infrastructure with precision, pride, and a strong work ethic. Headquartered in Gillette, WY, we perform heavy civil construction projects throughout Wyoming.

We are seeking Apprentice Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team in LaBarge, WY. This is a paid Registered Apprenticeship that provides hands‑on training, competitive pay, benefits, and a clear career path. Once the LaBarge project is complete, employees will have the opportunity to travel and continue working on projects throughout Wyoming. Per diem is provided for qualifying out-of-town assignments.

Job Summary

The Apprentice Heavy Equipment Operator works alongside experienced operators to safely learn heavy equipment operation while supporting earthmoving, grading, excavation, and site development activities. This position combines on‑the‑job training, classroom instruction, and general construction work to develop the skills needed to become a qualified Heavy Equipment Operator.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Learn to safely operate heavy equipment including, but not limited to scrapers, rollers, articulated haul trucks, backhoes, and water trucks.
• Assist with excavation, grading, earthmoving, trenching, compaction, and site preparation.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and assist with basic maintenance.
• Follow project plans, supervisor instructions, and all safety requirements.
• Participate in apprenticeship training, safety meetings, and required classroom instruction.
• Complete equipment inspections, daily logs, and other required documentation.
• Perform general labor duties as needed to support project operations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work safely as part of a team.
• Reliable attendance and positive attitude.
• Good communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in physically demanding conditions.
• Mechanical aptitude or construction experience is a plus.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Construction, farming, ranching, oilfield, military, or labor experience is preferred but not required.
• No heavy equipment experience is required. Training is provided through the apprenticeship program.

Certifications and Licenses

• Valid Driver's License required.
• Ability to obtain PEC/SafeLand, First Aid/CPR, H₂S, MSHA, and any required site‑specific training.

Work Environment

• Outdoor construction and heavy civil job sites in varying weather conditions.
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, uneven terrain, and moving equipment.
• Travel and overnight stays may be required.
• Required use of company‑approved PPE.

Physical Demands

• Operate equipment for extended periods.
• Frequently climb on and off equipment.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Stand, walk, bend, crouch, and work on uneven ground.
• Work in outdoor conditions for extended periods.

Schedule

• Monday through Friday, typically 10–12‑hour shifts.
• Overtime, weekends, and travel may be required based on project needs.

Why Join Earth Work Solutions?

• Paid Registered Apprenticeship Program
• Competitive pay with scheduled wage increases
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Per diem for qualifying out‑of‑town assignments
• Hands‑on training with experienced operators
• Modern equipment fleet
• Long-term career opportunities throughout Wyoming

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the company.

Earth Work Solutions is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, transgender status, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.