Experienced Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utilities

Lee Contracting; Midland (MI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee Industrial Contracting is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Midland-area team. You will operate excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and related machinery on underground construction projects, following plans and safety protocols.

Responsibilities include site preparation, grading, material handling, and performing routine maintenance while coordinating with supervisors and engineers. A valid CDL or driver’s license and a strong safety mindset are required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years heavy equipment operation in underground construction.
• Basic math and geometry to determine area, elevation, and pitch for excavation plans.
• Competent in soil analysis – recognizing ground conditions.
• Experienced in trenching and excavating – shoring, sloping and shielding.
• Knowledge of removal and installation of underground utilities and line openings.
• Basic equipment inspection and maintenance.
• Ability to work effectively with all personality types.
• Ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions.
• Self-directed and can work independently.
• Valid driver’s license – Chauffeurs preferred

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery to perform digging, grading, and material handling.
• Prepare construction sites by clearing debris, grading terrain, and moving materials according to plans.
• Perform routine maintenance checks and minor repairs to ensure uptime.
• Adhere to safety regulations and conduct pre-operation inspections.
• Work with site supervisors, laborers, and engineers for project execution.
• Load, unload, and transport materials using heavy equipment.
• Daily equipment maintenance and reporting of service needs.
• Identify and address site challenges promptly and adjust operations as needed.
• Communicate effectively with crew, leadership, and customers.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Troubleshooting

Verbal & written instructions

Tools

Forklift operation

Boom lift

Scissor lift

Telehandler

Skid steer

Bulldozer

Backhoe

Excavator

Mobile crane

Laser level

Power tools

Job description

Lee Industrial Contracting is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Midland-area team. You will operate excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and related machinery on underground construction projects, following plans and safety protocols.

Responsibilities include site preparation, grading, material handling, and performing routine maintenance while coordinating with supervisors and engineers. A valid CDL or driver’s license and a strong safety mindset are required.