Heavy Equipment Operator

Edwards Construction Group, Inc.; Arroyo Grande (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

Fringe Benefits

Continuing education bonus program

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Edwards Construction Group, Inc. seeks a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to support site prep and earthwork on commercial projects across California.

You will operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently, read blueprints, and work closely with the crew to maintain quality and productivity on site. The role requires 3+ years of experience with heavy civil equipment, strong safety awareness, and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy civil equipment.
• Skilled in excavation, shoring, and grading operations.
• Proficient with construction safety protocols and on-site procedures.
• Clear communication and attention to detail; able to work independently or with a crew.
• Must have own basic tools and a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Operate equipment for trenching, excavation, and grading tasks.
• Read blueprints or instructions to plan work on site.
• Ensure work meets codes, project specs, and safety requirements.
• Follow safety procedures to maintain a clean, organized job site.
• Coordinate with the site superintendent and crew to meet specs.
• Assist with materials takeoffs when needed.
• Collaborate with supervisors and other trades to take direction.

Skills

Operate heavy civil equipment

Read blueprints

Safety compliance

Team communication

Education

OSHA 10/30 certification (preferred)

Job description

About Us:

Edwards Construction Group is a leading commercial contractor specializing in K-12, Higher Education, Civic, and Private Commercial projects across California. We take a hands‑on, people‑first approach—prioritizing innovation, safety, and mentorship within a collaborative culture where every voice is valued.

About the role:

We're seeking a skilled and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to support site prep and earthwork on a range of commercial construction projects. You'll operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently while working closely with the crew to ensure quality and productivity on‑site.

Job Duties:

• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs
• Operate equipment necessary for trenching operations, excavation operations, and grading operations
• Read and have the understanding of blueprints, drawings, or oral instructions to plan work
• Ensure work is performed safely and in compliance with building codes and project specifications
• Follow all safety procedures and project protocols to maintain a safe, clean, and organized job site
• Work closely with the site superintendent and crew to complete work to specifications
• Able to assist with materials takeoffs
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with the crew and take direction from supervisors, foremen, and members of other trades

Requirements

Qualifications & Strengths:

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy civil equipment
• Skilled in excavation, shoring, and both rough and finish grading
• Proficient with construction equipment and safety protocols
• Strong communication, work ethic, and attention to detail
• Able to work independently or with a crew
• OSHA 10/30 (preferred but not required)
• Must have own basic tools
• Clean DMV record and a valid driver's license
• Reliable transportation required

Physical Requirements:

• Due to the nature of our work and as part of our commitment to safety and integrity, all final candidates are required and must successfully pass a background check and drug screening before starting employment.
• Reliable transportation
• Physical ability to climb permanent and temporary stairs, passenger use of construction personnel hoists, ability to climb ladders and negotiate work areas under construction.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• This job requires lifting, bending, carrying, and climbing.
• The employee regularly works on‑site at the construction work site where the employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts; high precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock.

This is a general statement of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. It does not exclude other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, & vision
• Fringe Benefits
• Continuing education bonus program
• Opportunities for career growth

We pay prevailing wage on applicable public works jobs; public works follow California prevailing wage (DIR), federal work jobs follow Davis–Bacon, and private work is competitively compensated.

ECG is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business needs.