Heavy Equipment Operator

Institute for Building Technology and Safety; St. George (LA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator in St. George, Louisiana. This role involves operating various heavy machinery, ensuring safety and compliance in public infrastructure projects.

Qualified candidates must have a high school diploma, CDL Class B is preferred, and at least two years of experience operating heavy construction equipment. Knowledge of job site safety and maintenance of equipment is essential.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in the operation of heavy construction equipment required.
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL Class B preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery for construction and maintenance activities.
• Perform ditch excavation, grading, trenching, and related tasks.
• Inspect and maintain assigned equipment for safe operation.
• Lead and assist crew assignments and manage project compliance.

Skills

Operation of heavy equipment

Safety practices

Maintenance skills

Traffic control procedures

Project planning

Education

High school diploma or GED

Post-secondary coursework in construction or mechanics

Tools

Excavators

Backhoes

Skid steers

Bulldozers

Loaders

Job description

Responsibilities

This position is located in St. George, LA

Under the direction of the Public Works Director (or designee), the Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of various heavy equipment used in the construction, maintenance, and repair of public infrastructure. Work may include grading, ditching, trenching, excavation, point repairs, roadside and off‑road digging, debris removal, and material transport to support streets, storm drainage systems, utilities, and other municipal projects. The operator may also assist and lead crews in field activities, ensuring that work is performed safely, effectively, and in compliance with city, state, and federal standards.

This position may require overtime, weekend work, and emergency response during severe weather or infrastructure failures.

Responsibilities/Duties of this position

• Operates heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, skid steers, bulldozers, front‑end loaders, graders, rollers, and dump trucks for construction, maintenance, and repair activities.
• Performs ditch excavation (off‑road and roadside), point repairs, grading, trenching, backfilling, hauling, and related tasks.
• Loads, transports, and places materials including soil, rock, gravel, asphalt, and debris.
• Reads and interprets construction plans, grade stakes, and work orders to ensure proper project execution.
• Assists with manual labor tasks when not operating equipment, including pipe installation, drainage work, concrete/asphalt repair, and job site cleanup.
• Leads or assists with crew assignments, providing direction, oversight, and training as needed.
• Inspects, maintains, and makes minor repairs to assigned equipment to ensure safe operation.
• Monitors and enforces compliance with safety procedures, traffic control requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Completes daily reports, equipment logs, and project documentation.
• Coordinates with other Public Works units, contractors, and departments to complete work efficiently.
• Responds to public inquiries in a professional manner, helping resolve complaints or concerns.
• Performs other duties as assigned as appropriate for this role.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required for education.
• Post‑secondary coursework or vocational training in construction, equipment operation, or mechanics is preferred but not required.
• 2 years of experience in the operation of heavy construction equipment (e.g., backhoes, loaders, bulldozers, excavators, graders) is required.
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL Class B preferred.

Key Skills/Competencies for this position

Knowledge of:

• Operation, safety practices, and maintenance of heavy equipment used in construction and repair.
• Street, storm drain, and utility repair methods, including ditching, grading, and excavation.
• Job site safety, traffic control procedures, and OSHA standards.
• Basic project planning, scheduling, and cost estimating.
• Applicable laws, codes, and regulations related to public works.

Ability to:

• Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment in varied field conditions.
• Perform both skilled equipment operation and physical labor tasks.
• Estimate time, equipment, and materials needed for assigned projects.
• Troubleshoot problems and recommend effective solutions.
• Work independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• Maintain accurate records and communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Provide leadership, training, and oversight to field crews.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and the public.

Skills in:

• Efficient and safe operation of excavators, backhoes, loaders, skid steers, bulldozers, and other construction equipment.
• Routine equipment inspection, servicing, and minor maintenance.
• Reading and interpreting plans, maps, and work instructions.
• Using computers and basic software applications for reporting.

Personal Qualities

• Strong Work Ethic
• Teachable/Continuous Learner
• Reliable/Dependable
• Collaborative/Team Contributor

Physical Demands

Physical/Environmental Demands for this position, when such demands exist.

• Must be available for standby assignments and emergency response.
• Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions with exposure to traffic, noise, dust, uneven terrain, and potentially hazardous conditions.
• Requires the ability to lift heavy objects, perform manual labor, and operate equipment for extended periods.

Equal Opportunity

IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer that is committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.