Heavy Equipment Operator

Kut and Kill Inc.; Custer (SD); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Equipment Operator I to join their Highway Department. This full-time role involves operating heavy machinery to maintain over 400 miles of county roads, ensuring safety and efficiency in all weather conditions. The ideal candidate will thrive in a team environment, possess strong communication skills, and be adaptable to changing conditions. With a structured work schedule and an array of benefits, this position offers a stable career path for those looking to make a difference in their community.

Benefits

Paid Holidays

Vacation Leave

Sick Leave

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Life Insurance

Retirement Plan

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
• Previous experience operating heavy machinery preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery for snow and ice removal.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Clear brush and debris from roads.

Skills

Equipment Operation

Communication Skills

Safety Awareness

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Loaders

Dump Trucks

Snowplows

Graders

Semi-Trucks

Job description

This job requires commute or relocation to Custer, SD

Custer County is accepting applications for a Full-Time Equipment Operator I Position.

This full-time position with the Custer County Highway Department plays a vital role in maintaining over 400 miles of county roads. The position involves operating heavy machinery, snow and ice removal, minor equipment maintenance, and roadside clearing. Work is performed outdoors in various weather conditions throughout the year.

The standard work schedule is four 10-hour days (Monday through Thursday), with weekends and holidays off—except during weather-related events or emergency situations that require road maintenance.

The starting wage is $23.18 per hour and includes a full benefits package.

The ideal candidate will be dependable, safety-conscious, and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication and equipment operation skills are essential, along with the ability to adapt to changing weather and road conditions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• High school diploma or GED

• Previous experience operating equipment or driving trucks preferred

• Valid South Dakota Class A Commercial Driver’s License with tanker endorsement preferred; must be obtained within six months of hire

• Ability to lift and carry up to 100 pounds

• Ability to work in extreme hot, cold, and inclement weather

• Basic reading, writing, and reasoning skills

• Ability to work professionally with county officials, coworkers, and the public

• Must adhere to all County safety policies and procedures

Primary Duties Include:

• Operating equipment such as pickups, loaders, dump trucks, semi-trucks, sanders, snowplows, graders, and mowers

• Performing routine maintenance and minor repairs on county equipment

• Removing snow and ice from county-maintained roads

• Clearing brush, trees, and other debris

• Performing manual labor and roadside repairs as assigned

• Maintaining signs and ensuring proper placement for advisory signage

• Following operational and safety guidelines

• Assisting during emergency or weather-related response efforts

Work Schedule:

• Year-round full-time employment

• Normal schedule: Monday–Thursday, 10-hour shifts

• Occasional extended hours may be required during severe weather or emergencies

• Breaks include a 30-minute lunch and two 15-minute breaks

Physical Demands:

• Regular lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying up to 100 lbs

• Requires standing, walking, sitting, kneeling, climbing, balancing, and working overhead

• Frequent use of foot and hand controls, tools, and heavy equipment

• Must be able to perform repetitive movements and withstand vibrations

• Work is performed in varying weather conditions and includes noise, dust, and fumes

• Requires clear vision, hearing, and the ability to communicate by radio and verbally

• Tasks may require working at heights and in uneven terrain (e.g., slopes, bridges, embankments)

Benefits:

• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave

• Health, dental, and life insurance options

• South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS) with 6% employer match

• Stable, full-time work schedule with limited weekend or evening shifts