Excavator Operator

Knobelsdorff; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% employer-paid health and dental

HSA contributions

401(k) with match

Performance-based incentives

Paid weekly wages

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Knobelsdorff (KE) is hiring an Equipment Operator to support our Energy Division by preparing solar fields and staging electrical crews. You will operate machinery that directly impacts project outcomes while upholding KE’s Safety, People, Passion, and Performance values.

The role requires prior equipment operation experience, travel up to 100%, and a valid license. We offer a competitive hourly wage, per diem, overtime opportunities, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating equipment.
• Experience with civil or solar construction preferred.
• Class A CDL preferred.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Willingness to travel extensively (up to 100%), including overnights.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Valid driver’s license with safe driving record.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment and assist with trenching, grading, or material movement.
• Load and unload tools, equipment, and materials from trailers and trucks.
• Support civil work activities including conduit installation and backfilling.
• Assist with photovoltaic construction tasks when not operating machinery.
• Maintain safe operation of equipment in line with job site standards.
• Coordinate with team leads and field personnel for daily work plans.
• Travel and work outdoors in various environmental conditions.
• Follow KE policies, procedures, and safety expectations.
• Support additional duties as needed by project teams.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

CDL A preferred

MS Word Excel Outlook

Job description

Working at Knobelsdorff

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands‑on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Working at Knobelsdorff

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting‑edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands‑on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family‑owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you.

Job Description

This role supports our Energy Division by preparing our solar fields and staging our Electrical crews. You’ll be responsible for operating machinery that directly impacts our project outcome. Success in this role means upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in doing things the right way and thrives in a fast‑moving environment, this position is built for you.

What You'll Do

• Operate heavy equipment and assist with trenching, grading, or material movement
• Load and unload tools, equipment, and materials from trailers and trucks
• Support civil work activities including conduit installation and backfilling
• Assist with photovoltaic construction tasks when not operating machinery
• Maintain safe operation of equipment in line with job site standards
• Coordinate with team leads and field personnel for daily work plans
• Travel and work outdoors in various environmental conditions
• Follow KE policies, procedures, and safety expectations
• Support additional duties as needed by project teams

What You Bring

• Previous experience operating equipment
• Experience with civil or solar construction preferred
• Class A CDL preferred
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Willingness to travel extensively (up to 100%), including overnights
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment drug screen and background check
• Valid driver’s license with safe driving record

Additional Information

Pay Range

We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.

Pay Range $25-$35 per hour plus per diem, travel incentive opportunities, and overtime eligibility

Prevailing wage may apply depending on project location.

Total Rewards Statement

As a full‑time employee at Knobelsdorff, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.

• 100% employer‑paid health and dental coverage for employees
• HSA contributions to support your medical expenses
• Company‑paid life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) with competitive company match
• Performance‑based incentives
• Paid weekly with competitive wages
• PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement
• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage

We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

• Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time.
• Must be capable of working in inclement conditions to include extreme hot and cold temperatures.
• Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 75 lbs.
• Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources via email at [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

• EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters.

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we’ll work with you.