Heavy Equipment Operator

Gridworks; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Gridworks is seeking an Equipment Operator to support successful execution of construction and solar projects in Albuquerque, NM. You will operate heavy equipment safely to move materials, prepare sites, and contribute to project completion.

The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather. This role supports jobsite productivity, equipment reliability, and adherence to safety standards for renewable energy projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of equipment operation experience.
• Hands-on ability with heavy machinery and safety protocols.
• Experience reading gauges, dials, and indicators for proper operation.
• Experience in general construction and workplace safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, loaders, forklifts, scrapers, and water trucks for construction activity.
• Perform excavation, grading, material handling, and site preparation.
• Ensure equipment use follows company policies and safety rules.
• Conduct routine inspections and basic servicing of equipment.
• Identify and report mechanical issues or major repair needs.
• Load/unload equipment from trailers and transport vehicles.
• Maintain clean, organized jobsite and equipment.
• Support environmental and safety initiatives on site.
• Attend trainings and team meetings; perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Reading gauges

Education

Vocational training in construction equipment operation

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: Corazon - Albuquerque, NM 87121

Equipment Operator - Renewable Energy Projects

Gridworks is seeking an Equipment Operator to support the successful execution of construction and solar projects. This role is responsible for operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently to support site development, material movement, and project completion.

The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and comfortable working in dynamic outdoor environments. This position plays a key role in ensuring jobsite productivity, equipment reliability, and adherence to company safety standards.

Established in 2014, Gridworks is a leading EPC contractor for utility-scale solar and battery storage projects. Primarily operating across the Southwest, we are expanding into other regions. With nearly 3 GW of solar and battery energy storage projects, we are well positioned for continued success in the rapidly growing clean energy sector.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, loaders, forklifts, scrapers, and water trucks to support construction activities
• Perform excavation, grading, material handling, and site preparation
• Ensure equipment is operated safely and in compliance with company policies and procedures
• Conduct routine inspections, maintenance checks, and basic servicing of equipment
• Identify and report mechanical issues or major repair needs
• Load and unload equipment from trailers and transport vehicles
• Maintain a clean and organized jobsite, equipment, and materials
• Support environmental and safety initiatives by following best practices
• Assist with general site tasks and contribute to overall project success
• Attend required trainings and team meetings
• Perform other duties as assigned

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and temperatures
• Requires prolonged periods of operating heavy machinery
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, and stoop throughout the day
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in varied terrain and jobsite conditions

QualificationsQualifications and Requirements:

• 5 + years of equipment operation experience
• Degrees or courses from vocational schools in construction equipment operation and maintenance add an extra edge.
• Hand and foot coordination: You must coordinate movements of your hands and feet in order to guide very large machinery in tight places.
• Operation Monitoring: You'll have to read gauges, dials, and other indicators, and adjust them as necessary.
• Interpersonal skills and teamwork: You must be able to coordinate your actions with those of other workers on busy construction sites.
• Critical thinking: Your job will require that you identify the strengths and weaknesses of solutions to problems in order to choose the one that is most likely to be successful and cost-effective.
• Troubleshooting: Anyone operating equipment should be able to detect and fix operating problems.
• Experience in general construction and workplace safety practices
• Insurability must have clean driving record, and valid drivers' license.
• Ability to travel to/from job site, reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass background check and pre-employment and random drug screenings.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Gridworks is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and business needs, without regard to any protected status.