Dozer Operator (Team Lead)

Turner Mining Group; Front Royal, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Turner Mining Group in Front Royal, VA is seeking an experienced GPS Dozer Operator / Team Lead to run CAT dozers, set up 3D site models, and guide field crews toward on-grade mass earthwork.

You will lead from the cab and on the ground, verify grade, manage daily logs with HeavyJob, and enforce safety standards while coordinating with the Project Lead.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of heavy dozer operation experience.
• 2+ years leading site crews and field workflows.
• Valid Driver's License and OSHA 10; willing to obtain OSHA 30.
• Experience with Trimble GPS-guided systems.
• Familiar with HeavyJob or similar daily logs.
• Proficient across CAT D3–D8 and basic support equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead from the cab and ground to direct mass earthwork.
• Set up and verify 3D site models and grade layouts.
• Coordinate field crews and report progress to Project Lead.
• Maintain daily logs and track production with HeavyJob.
• Ensure safety briefings and enforce safety protocols.
• Operate and support auxiliary equipment as needed.

Skills

Trimble GPS

Dozer operation

Leadership

Safety compliance

Tools

HeavyJob

Job description

GPS Dozer Operator / Team Lead

Location: Front Royal, VA

Position Type: Direct Placement (Full-Time, Permanent)

Primary Fleet: CAT D3, D5/DK, D6K, D6 XE, D8 Dozers

Reports To: Project Lead

About the Role

Are you an experienced dozer operator who knows Trimble 3D GPS inside and out and thrives in a leadership role? We are seeking a GPS Dozer Operator / Team Lead for a direct placement position with one of our top civil earthwork clients.

In this role, you’ll lead from the cab and on the ground—running high-production Caterpillar iron, setting up and verifying 3D site models, and directing field crews to complete mass earthwork projects on time and on grade.

Key Responsibilities

• Precision Grading & Earthmoving: Operate a full spectrum of CAT dozers (D3, D6K, D5/DK, D6 XE Electric Drive, and D8) for mass excavation, fine grading, subgrade preparation, and site setup.
• Trimble GPS & Model Verification: Set up Trimble GPS base stations/rovers, lay out grade stakes, verify digital terrain models against plans, and troubleshoot grade adjustments on the fly.
• Crew Leadership & Coordination: Serve as a working Team Lead—directing site personnel, delegating daily tasks, keeping work moving efficiently, and reporting progress to the Project Lead.
• Production Tracking & Daily Logs: Complete daily equipment logs and track site production quantities, equipment hours, and delays using HeavyJob or daily log software.
• Auxiliary Equipment Operation: Step into support iron when needed, including skid steers, rollers, and track loaders to keep operations fluid.
• Jobsite Safety: Lead daily safety briefings (toolbox talks) and enforce zero-compromise safety protocols around heavy machinery and active earthwork zones.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: 4+ years of heavy dozer operation required (preferably focused on civil earthwork and site development).
• GPS Expertise: 2+ years of hands-on experience utilizing Trimble GPS-guided systems, including model verification and grade layout.
• Leadership Background: 2+ years of experience leading site crews and managing daily field workflows.
• Certifications: Valid Driver's License and OSHA 10 Certification required (willingness to obtain OSHA 30 is required).
• Reporting & Tech Proficiency: Familiarity with HeavyJob or electronic daily project logging tools.
• Machine Versatility: Competency across small-to-large dozers (CAT D3 to D8) and basic support iron (skid steers/rollers).