Government Heavy Equipment Operator Job – Colfax, WA Whitman County

Lmtribune; Colfax (WA); On-site; USD 36,272 - 41,658; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

90% county-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance

Employer-paid basic life insurance

Flexible spending accounts

Paid holidays

Generous vacation and sick leave accruals

Job summary

Whitman County, under Lmtribune, is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator for the Oakesdale and Palouse areas. The role involves operating and maintaining heavy equipment like bulldozers and hydraulic excavators, ensuring road safety and accessibility.

The ideal candidate will have at least two years of relevant experience and a valid Class ‘A’ CDL. Whitman County provides competitive pay starting at $26.33 per hour along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance, retirement plans, and generous leave accruals.

Qualifications

• At least two years of tandem axle truck and trailer operation experience.
• Must possess a valid Class ‘A’ CDL with a tank vehicle endorsement.
• Safe driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain heavy road equipment.
• Impact safety and accessibility of roads directly.
• Work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Skills

Heavy road equipment operation

Tandem axle truck operation

Technical skill

Independent judgment

Education

Valid Class ‘A’ Commercial Driver’s License

Equivalent training in heavy equipment operation

Tools

Bulldozers

Hydraulic excavators

Graders

Welding equipment

13-speed road ranger transmissions

Job description

Whitman County is seeking a dedicated and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team serving the Oakesdale and Palouse, WA areas. As a cornerstone of the county’s infrastructure and public works, Whitman County is committed to maintaining safe and efficient roadways for our communities. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive work environment where initiative, safety, and professional growth are valued.

In this vital role, you will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of heavy road equipment, including bulldozers, hydraulic excavators, graders, welding equipment, trucks, tractors, and trailers. Your work will directly impact the safety and accessibility of our roads, requiring both technical skill and independent judgment. The ideal candidate will have at least two years of tandem axle truck and trailer operation experience, or equivalent training, and must possess a valid Class ‘A’ Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a tank vehicle endorsement and a safe driving record. Experience with 13-speed road ranger transmissions and tandem axle trucks is highly desirable.

Whitman County offers a competitive starting wage of $26.33 per hour, with a full wage range up to $30.24 per hour. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 90% county-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, employer-paid basic life insurance, EAP, participation in the Washington State Department of Retirement Services 401a, voluntary benefits, flexible spending accounts, paid holidays, and generous vacation and sick leave accruals.

We are looking for motivated individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community, enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions, and are committed to safety and excellence. If you are ready to advance your career with a respected local government employer, we encourage you to apply today. Full job descriptions and applications are available on our website or by contacting our office directly.