Backhoe Operator

Whitaker Construction; Nampa (ID); On-site; USD 32,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitaker Construction is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to operate and maintain various construction machines, including backhoes, for trenching and utility installation or repair projects.

The role requires ensuring safety, locating utilities, inspecting equipment, and performing light maintenance while maintaining clear communication with the crew. Candidates should have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of heavy equipment operator experience with multiple types of equipment.
• Strong knowledge of operation, safety, and maintenance of equipment.
• Ability to safely operate equipment around utilities and other personnel.
• Ability to read drawings, specifications, safety and quality standards, and use related tools.
• Ability to detect unsafe or hazardous conditions on equipment and in the work area.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to work.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment safely and efficiently, producing high quality work.
• Locate utilities and buried lines prior to digging.
• Inspect equipment and work area before starting a job.
• Perform routine inspection and preventative maintenance on equipment.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings to ensure safe operation and distances from hazards.

Skills

3+ years experience

Equipment safety

Operate near utilities

Read drawings & specs

Hazard recognition

Communication skills

Driver's license

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operators are highly skilled individuals that operate and maintain various types of construction equipment; including but not limited to Backhoes. Heavy Equipment Operator duties include digging trenches for pipe laying crews, to install or repair utilities.

• Operate equipment safely and efficiently, while producing high quality work.
• Locate utilities and other buried lines or structures prior to digging.
• Inspect equipment and general work area prior to the start of any job.
• Perform routine inspection and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment and operate equipment without damaging it.
• Actively aware of surroundings near the equipment to maintain safe operation and distances from potential hazards such as underground utility lines, overhead utility lines, other equipment, and other workers.

Skills and Qualifications

• A minimum of 3 years of heavy equipment operator experience with multiple types of equipment, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge regarding the operation, safety, and maintenance of equipment being used.
• Ability to safely operate equipment around utilities, field personnel, structures, property, etc.
• Ability to read and understand drawings, specifications, safety, and quality standards, and effectively utilizing all tools and equipment relevant to the work.
• Ability to detect unsafe or hazardous conditions of equipment and work environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to get to and from work.