Heavy Equipment Operator

Wainwright Talent Partners; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Wainwright Talent Partners is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator in the Boston area to support site development, earthwork, excavation, grading, and material handling. The role emphasizes safety, dependability, and collaboration with field crews in a fast-paced construction setting.

The ideal candidate should have 3+ years of experience, be safety-focused, and capable of reading site plans and grade stakes. CDL is preferred but not required; OSHA 10/30 certifications are a plus.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy construction equipment.
• Ability to operate multiple types of heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
• Knowledge of construction site safety practices and regulations.
• Ability to read site drawings, grades, and layout markings.
• Valid driver's license; CDL preferred but not required.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, skid steers, compactors, and backhoes.
• Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and site preparation activities.
• Read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and project specifications.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete pre-operation safety checks.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and job site procedures.
• Work closely with site supervisors, laborers, and project managers to meet production goals.
• Ensure proper handling and placement of materials to maintain project quality standards.
• Assist with general site duties when equipment operation is not required.

Skills

Experience with heavy equipment

Safety-focused operations

Reading site drawings/grades

Communication with team

Licenses and certifications awareness

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating construction equipment to support site development, earthwork, excavation, grading, and material handling activities. This role plays a critical part in maintaining project productivity, safety standards, and quality workmanship across job sites.

The ideal candidate is experienced, safety-focused, dependable, and capable of working collaboratively with field crews and supervisors in a fast-paced construction environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, skid steers, compactors, and backhoes.
• Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and site preparation activities.
• Read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and project specifications.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete pre-operation safety checks.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and job site procedures.
• Work closely with site supervisors, laborers, and project managers to meet production goals.
• Ensure proper handling and placement of materials to maintain project quality standards.
• Assist with general site duties when equipment operation is not required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating heavy construction equipment preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to operate multiple types of heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
• Knowledge of construction site safety practices and regulations.
• Ability to read site drawings, grades, and layout markings.
• Strong awareness of surroundings and commitment to safe operations.
• Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred but not required.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to sit, stand, climb, and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds when necessary.

Preferred Attributes

• Reliable and punctual with strong work ethic.
• Team-oriented mindset with good communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with pride in quality workmanship.
• Flexible and willing to work overtime or varied schedules as project needs require.

Compensation is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include: