Construction Equipment Operator

Drm-Inc; Hot Springs (SD); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Drm-Inc is seeking experienced Construction Equipment Operators to join our team on active construction sites across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. You will operate bulldozers, graders, loaders, excavators, and other heavy machinery, moving earth, erecting structures, and assisting with maintenance tasks.

The role requires safety awareness, ability to follow signals, read plans, and coordinate with crew to meet project specs while working in varied weather conditions.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Some college coursework or vocational training in heavy equipment operation preferred.
• Valid driver's license; CDL may be required depending on equipment.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and operate machinery with precision.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including bulldozers, backhoes, graders, loaders, and tractors.
• Excavate, move, and grade earth or materials according to project specifications.
• Follow hand signals and audio cues to coordinate with crew members.
• Monitor equipment gauges and indicators to ensure proper operation.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Identify and avoid hazards such as utility lines, obstructions, and other workers.
• Align and position equipment using reference stakes and guidelines.
• Keep accurate records of equipment use and maintenance issues.
• Assist with snow removal, debris cleanup, and demolition tasks as needed.
• Schedule: May include early mornings, long shifts, overtime, and weekend work depending on project needs and weather conditions.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Reading plans

Basic math

Verbal communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Vocational training in heavy equipment operation

Some college coursework

Job description

We are looking for experienced and safety-conscious Construction Equipment Operators to join our team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery - such as bulldozers, graders, loaders, and excavators to move earth, erect structures, pour concrete, and perform other construction-related tasks. Operators may also assist with equipment maintenance and repairs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate heavy equipment including bulldozers, backhoes, graders, loaders, and tractors.
• Excavate, move, and grade earth or materials according to project specifications.
• Follow hand signals and audio cues to coordinate with crew members.
• Monitor equipment gauges and indicators to ensure proper operation.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Identify and avoid hazards such as utility lines, obstructions, and other workers.
• Align and position equipment using reference stakes and guidelines.
• Keep accurate records of equipment use and maintenance issues.
• Assist with snow removal, debris cleanup, and demolition tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Some college coursework or vocational training in heavy equipment operation preferred.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL may be required depending on equipment.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and operate machinery with precision.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills:

Technical Knowledge:

• Mechanical systems and equipment maintenance
• Public safety and hazard mitigation
• English language comprehension for reading plans and safety materials

Core Skills:

• Operation and control of heavy machinery
• Monitoring and troubleshooting equipment performance
• Reading comprehension and technical writing
• Basic math skills for problem-solving
• Active listening and verbal communication

Social Skills:

• Coordination and teamwork
• Instruction and guidance of others
• Service orientation and social awareness

Tools & Technology:

• Bulldozers, graders, loaders, excavators, and other heavy machinery
• Diagnostic tools and maintenance equipment
• Setting: Active construction sites including residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
• Conditions: Exposure to all weather conditions, loud noise, dust, and heavy machinery.
• Hazards: Risk of injury from moving equipment, uneven terrain, and other job site dangers. PPE and strict safety compliance required.

Physical Requirements:

• Extended periods of sitting while operating equipment
• Occasional climbing, bending, and reaching
• Exposure to vibration and need for precise hand-eye coordination

Impact & Responsibility:

• Decisions directly affect safety, project timelines, and equipment integrity.
• Errors can result in costly delays or safety violations.
• May assist or guide other workers and is expected to uphold safety standards.

Schedule: May include early mornings, long shifts, overtime, and weekend work depending on project needs and weather conditions.

Why Join Us?

• Operate state-of-the-art equipment on meaningful projects
• Be part of a team that values safety, skill, and professionalism
• Opportunities for advancement and continued training

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at Phone: [phone]

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.