HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Job Summary
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy construction equipment in support of construction, site development, grading, excavation, utility, and related project activities. This position performs equipment operations in accordance with project specifications, safety requirements, and operational directives while supporting overall project productivity and quality standards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate heavy construction equipment including but not limited to excavators, loaders, bulldozers, rollers, graders, skid steers, forklifts, backhoes, and other assigned equipment.
- Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, material handling, and site preparation activities.
- Conduct pre-operation and post-operation inspections of assigned equipment and report mechanical or safety concerns immediately.
- Maintain awareness of underground utilities, surrounding personnel, equipment movement, and site hazards during operations.
- Follow project plans, grade stakes, site instructions, and supervisor direction during equipment operation activities.
- Load and unload materials, equipment, and supplies as needed for project operations.
- Assist with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required.
- Ensure proper equipment maintenance, fueling, lubrication, and cleanliness.
- Comply with Company safety policies, EM 385-1-1 requirements, OSHA standards, and project-specific safety procedures.
- Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and required training.
- Maintain productivity and work quality standards while minimizing damage to equipment, materials, and surrounding property.
- Coordinate with project teams, spotters, truck drivers, and supervisors to support safe and efficient operations.
- Immediately report accidents, incidents, equipment damage, and unsafe conditions to supervision.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Minimum of two (2) years of heavy equipment operation experience in construction, civil, site, or related projects preferred.
- Experience operating multiple types of construction equipment preferred.
- Valid driver’s license may be required depending on project assignment.
- National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO), equipment certifications, or other operator certifications may be required depending on equipment type and project requirements.
- Ability to obtain and maintain project access requirements, including DBIDS access when applicable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of safe operation and basic maintenance of heavy construction equipment.
- Knowledge of construction site safety practices, OSHA standards, and hazard awareness.
- Ability to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently in active construction environments.
- Ability to follow verbal instructions, written directions, site plans, and project specifications.
- Ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with supervisors and coworkers.
- Ability to identify equipment issues and report maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
- Ability to maintain productivity while ensuring quality and safe work practices.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong situational awareness and attention to safety around personnel, utilities, and equipment movement.
Work Schedule and Hours
- Typical work schedule may vary depending on project assignment, operational needs, weather conditions, and customer requirements.
- Standard workdays may include day shift, night shift, weekends, holidays, or extended hours as needed.
- Overtime may be required based on project schedules and operational demands.
- Employees must maintain flexibility to support changing project and site requirements.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed primarily on active construction project sites.
- Employee may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions, dust, noise, vibration, moving equipment, and uneven terrain.
- Position may require extended standing, sitting, climbing, lifting, bending, and repetitive movements.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is always required while on project sites.
Other Duties
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities. Duties may change at any time with or without notice based on operational needs.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Pacific Rim Constructors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.