Heavy Equipment Operator

Sunstall Inc.; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunstall Inc. is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator in Columbia, SC, with a strong background in fine and rough grading and professional use of K-Tec scrapers.

The role focuses on site preparation and efficient earthmoving using a range of heavy equipment, with emphasis on K-Tec units. The ideal candidate will read grade stakes and plans, operate GPS/laser control systems, and collaborate with foremen and project managers to meet production targets while maintaining safety and

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-5 years’ experience operating heavy equipment on civil/site/roadwork or earthmoving projects.
• Demonstrated experience in rough and fine grading.
• Hands-on experience operating K-Tec or similar articulated haul scrapers strongly preferred.
• Experience with GPS machine control (Trimble, Topcon, etc.) is a plus.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans, grades, and blueprints.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including K-Tec articulated haul scrapers, dozers, graders, excavators, loaders and compactors as needed.
• Perform rough and fine grading to meet plan elevations, slopes, and tolerances.
• Safely load, haul, and place material using K-Tec scrapers and other earthmoving equipment.
• Read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and GPS/laser control systems.
• Work with grade checkers, foremen, and project managers to meet production and quality goals.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections, report defects, and perform basic preventative maintenance.

Skills

Strong grading skills

Good communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Safety-minded

Tools

K-Tec scrapers

GPS machine control (Trimble/Topcon)

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator with a strong background in fine and rough grading who can also operate a K-Tec scraper (articulated haul scraper). The ideal candidate will be responsible for site preparation, grading to design specifications, and efficient earthmoving using a variety of heavy equipment, with an emphasis on K-Tec units.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including, but not limited to:
• K-Tec articulated haul scrapers
• Dozers (with and without GPS)
• Motor graders
• Excavators, loaders, and compactors as needed
• Perform rough and fine grading to meet plan elevations, slopes, and tolerances.
• Safely load, haul, and place material using K-Tec scrapers and other earthmoving equipment.
• Read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and GPS/laser control systems.
• Work closely with grade checkers, foremen, and project managers to meet production and quality goals.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections, report defects, and perform basic preventative maintenance (greasing, fluid checks, cleaning, etc.).
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and site-specific safety requirements.
• Assist with general labor and other site tasks when equipment is not in use.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2-5 years’ experience operating heavy equipment on civil/site/roadwork or earthmoving projects.
• Demonstrated experience in rough and fine grading.
• Hands-on experience operating K-Tec or similar articulated haul scrapers strongly preferred.
• Experience with GPS machine control (Trimble, Topcon, etc.) is a plus.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans, grades, and blueprints.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL is a plus.
• Reliable transportation to and from job sites.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain.
• Strong safety mindset and proven safe operating record.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong grading skills and attention to finished surface quality.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong time-management and productivity focus.