## Equipment Operator**Position Summary:**Equipment Operators are responsible for operating specialized construction equipment used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**Supervisory Responsibilities:** None**Key Responsibilities:****Equipment Operation*** Operate various types of heavy equipment such as excavators, plows, dozers, trenchers, skid steers, and hydro-vacs.* Ensure equipment is operated safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company and industry standards.* Load and unload equipment from trailers safely.* Utility Installation Support* Perform digging, trenching, grading, and backfilling for utility installation.* Use utility locating tools to identify and avoid existing underground utilities.* Hand dig around existing utilities when necessary.**Safety & Compliance:*** Follow all OSHA, DOT, and company safety guidelines.* Use proper PPE and ensure crew adherence to safety protocols.* Participate in job site safety meetings and job hazard assessments prior to each task.* Documentation & Communication* Complete daily equipment logs and job reports accurately.* Read and interpret construction plans and layouts.* Communicate effectively with crew members, foreman, and supervisors.* Report issues, incidents, and near-misses to supervisors promptly.* Training & Mentorship* Assist in training and mentoring laborers.* Participate in ongoing training and certifications as required.**Required Qualifications:*** Valid Class A Driver’s License with a clean driving record.* Minimum 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment in utility construction or a related field.* Ability to read and understand utility maps, blueprints, and job plans.* Possess good verbal communication skills.* Ability to operate at least one piece of equipment we utilize on the job.* Ability to pass background check and drug screening.**Preferred Qualifications:*** High School Diploma or GED* Vocational school training or apprenticeship* OSHA 10**Work Environment:*** Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, or snow.* Exposure to dust, mud, insects, and loud equipment.* Regularly exposed to construction hazards such as open trenches, moving equipment, and vehicular traffic.* May require overtime or weekend work depending on project needs.**Physical Requirements:*** Must have physical strength, balance, hand-eye coordination, and stamina necessary to endure the daily activity involved on the job site.* Perform continuous physical labor for extended periods (8–12 hours per day).* Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 80 pounds unassisted.* Occasionally lift items over 80 pounds with assistance.* Stand, walk, and move over uneven terrain, construction sites, and confined areas for the majority of the workday.* Bend, squat, kneel, climb, reach, twist, and crawl into trenches, under structures, or within tight enclosures.* Climb ladders, steps, or equipment to access elevated or underground work zones.* Ability to drive or ride in a vehicle for up to 11 hours to travel to and from job sites.* Use hand tools and power tools with precision and control.* Repetitive motion tasks such as digging, raking, or using wrenches and pliers.* Ability to work with small components such as fiber cable and splicing equipment.* Visual acuity must be sufficient to read labels, identify cables, and operate tools and vehicles.* Color vision to distinguish wire or cable types.