Equipment Operator III: CDL, Heavy Equipment, Growth

City of Wilmington, NC; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid leave

Tuition assistance

On‑site gym

Job summary

The City of Wilmington is seeking an Equipment Operator III to maintain and improve stormwater drainage systems and roadways. You will work outdoors in crews, operating heavy equipment such as backhoes, graders, excavators, and dump trucks with snow plows and brine tanks.

You will gain hands‑on experience, opportunities to earn a CDL, and cross‑training across multiple teams. The role emphasizes accuracy, safety, and teamwork while supporting storm response and city projects.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED plus vocational/technical training in CDL‑operated vehicles.
• Valid driver's license; ability to obtain Class B within 90 days of hire.
• Ability to obtain Flagger & WorkZone Safety certifications within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, motor graders, excavators, and boom mowers.
• Plan and execute grading, trenching, and material movement with precision.
• Transport, inspect, and secure equipment before and after use.
• Assist with storm response, special events, and other assigned duties.
• Lead worker responsibilities: guide and train lower‑level staff.
• Maintain daily logs and records of completed work.
• Ensure safe work zones by following procedures and directing traffic.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Teamwork

Safety procedures

CDL training

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The City of Wilmington is seeking an Equipment Operator III to maintain and improve stormwater drainage systems and roadways. You will work outdoors in crews, operating heavy equipment such as backhoes, graders, excavators, and dump trucks with snow plows and brine tanks.

You will gain hands‑on experience, opportunities to earn a CDL, and cross‑training across multiple teams. The role emphasizes accuracy, safety, and teamwork while supporting storm response and city projects.