Heavy Equipment Operator

Lee County Government; Fort Myers (FL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee County Department of Transportation is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our field crews in Fort Myers, FL. You will drive and operate dump trucks and public works equipment to maintain right-of-ways and support road projects.

Responsibilities include setting up safe work zones, performing routine equipment maintenance, keeping logs, and assisting with pipeline or drainage tasks while adhering to DOT and IMOT standards. CDL Class B is preferred; on-site work required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED or equivalent experience.
• 1 year of heavy equipment operation or closely related experience such as roadwork or public works maintenance.
• Ability to work outdoors and follow safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Drive a dump truck to transport materials to job sites and the DOT yard.
• Operate public works equipment to maintain county right of ways.
• Set up, maintain, and break down safe work zones in compliance with regulations.
• Complete in-house training to obtain IMOT certification.
• Assist with pipe installation and minor equipment maintenance.
• Maintain daily logs and report equipment concerns promptly.

Skills

Teamwork

Safety-first

Communication

Outdoor work

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

IMOT training

Heavy equipment operation

Job description

Lee County's Department of Transportation is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this job, you will help with road and field work by driving and operating different types of equipment. In this role, you will work outdoors, help keep traffic safe, and support our crews on many kinds of projects. If you enjoy hands‑on work and being part of a team, this is a great opportunity.

What You Will Do

• Drive a dump truck to take materials to job sites and to the DOT yard
• Use a spreader box to place materials where needed
• Perform skilled work operating large vehicles and public works equipment to maintain County right of ways
• Set up, maintain, and break down safe work zones in compliance with traffic regulations and IMOT standards
• Complete in‑house training to obtain IMOT certification
• Assist with pipe installation as needed
• Complete minor equipment maintenance, inspections, and basic servicing
• Maintain daily logs and promptly report equipment concerns
• Follow all safety rules, procedures, and regulations
• Support supervisors and crew members and work effectively as part of a team
• Perform other related duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• One (1) year of heavy equipment operation or closely related experience, such as:
  • Roadway or public works maintenance
  • Canal, stormwater, or drainage work
  • Construction or sitework
  • Mechanical or equipment operation
  • Grounds or land maintenance
  • Any similar hands‑on job involving vehicles or machinery
  • Ability to work safely and follow all procedures in a safety‑sensitive role

Commercial Driver License (CDL) Requirements

• Candidates must obtain a Florida Class B Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) before applying.
• Candidates with an out‑of‑state CDL must obtain a Florida‑issued CDL within sixty (60) days of relocating to Florida.
• After hire, the selected candidate must obtain a Florida Class B Commercial Driver’s License within six (6) months.

Learn More

Information on CDL requirements, testing, and how to obtain your CLP through Lee County can be found at:
https://leetc.com/drivers-licenses/commercial-driver-license/

Preferred

• Florida Class “A” Commercial Driver’s License
• Previous experience driving or operating heavy machinery on work sites

Safety‑Sensitive Position

• This is a safety‑sensitive position and is subject to Drug and Alcohol Workplace Testing in accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Parts 40 and/or 382).
• Employees will complete in‑house training for IMOT certification and will be responsible for setting up and removing Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) work zones.

Extra Skills

• Able to use hand tools, power tools, and equipment safely
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Able to solve simple equipment or material issues on the job

Work Schedule

• Tuesday-Friday 7:00 AM- 5:30 PM
• Weekend or emergency response work may be required
• Additional hours may be needed during weather events or special operations

Why Join Us?

In this hands‑on role, your work directly supports the safety and efficiency of Lee County’s transportation system. You’ll receive competitive pay, solid benefits, and a dependable retirement plan through the State of Florida. Most importantly, you’ll join a team that takes pride in keeping our community’s roads, drainage systems, and public spaces in top condition.

About the Department

The Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT) plans, builds, and maintains the county’s roadway network. The department provides services such as roadway construction, traffic operations, drainage improvements, sidewalk installation, landscaping, and more. DOT is committed to safety, quality, and reliable service that supports a safe and efficient transportation system for all who travel through Lee County.

About Lee County

Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government.