Heavy Equipment Operator (Environmental Engineering)

Chesterfield County; Virginia; On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Chesterfield County seeks a skilled operator of large heavy equipment in Environmental Engineering. You will perform construction, repair, and maintenance tasks requiring precise handling of excavations and trenching, under general supervision.

The role requires a valid Class A CDL and the ability to work in varied weather, with physical endurance and strong communication skills. A Career Development Plan offers progression and salary incentives based on performance.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 3 years experience in skilled operation of heavy construction equipment.
• Valid Class A CDL and familiarity with OSHA excavation standards.
• Ability to operate and use a variety of hand tools for repair and maintenance; able to work in adverse weather and maintain safety.

Responsibilities

• Operate large and complex heavy mobile equipment for construction, repair, and maintenance.
• Perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Dig, ditch, slope, strip, grade, backfill, mow, and excavate; load/unload heavy equipment.

Skills

Communication

CDL Class A

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Heavy equipment operation tools

Job description

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; three years of experience in skilled operation of heavy construction equipment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Working knowledge of the skilled operation and maintenance of heavy equipment used in construction and maintenance work. Ability to operate and use a variety of hand tools used in the repair, maintenance, and development of roads, grounds or structures; to perform physically demanding work including, but not limited to, heavy lifting, standing for prolonged periods, squatting, stooping, bending, twisting, stretching, crawling, reaching overhead, and working in awkward positions without choice or variety; to work in adverse weather conditions; to communicate effectively orally and in writing; to develop and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Must possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and familiarity with OSHA excavation standards.

Current valid driver’s license and good driving record required. Based on the Virginia DMV point system, record must not reflect a total of six or more demerit points within the twenty-four months preceding the anticipated hire date, or one major violation of six demerit points within the preceding thirty-six months. Out of state driving records must be obtained by applicant and presented at time of interview. Records must reflect at least three years of history and be dated within thirty days of interview date. Pre-employment drug-testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required.

This position is a federally regulated DOT position and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing. The use of medical marijuana for this position is prohibited.

Duties

Under general supervision, performs work of moderate difficulty in skilled operation of large and complex heavy mobile equipment. Operates large and complex heavy mobile equipment in regularly performing skilled construction, repair, and maintenance work. Performs advanced construction/modification/repair of infrastructure. Operates mobile equipment and hand tools to dig, ditch, slope, strip, grade, backfill, mow, and clear and excavate. Excavates trenches. Maneuvers equipment in various locations where accuracy is critical such as near obstruction. Manipulates equipment with integrated mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems/controls by coding computers and/or adjusting levers, gears, valves, switches, and related controls. Operates hand tools such as jackhammers, mechanical tampers, power saws, air compressors, hydraulic drivers, and similar equipment. Loads and unloads heavy equipment. Performs preventive maintenance and operational checks, and makes minor repairs/adjustments to equipment. Perform other work as required.

This position is a part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) and offers career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications, and experience.

PLEASE NOTE: Position open until filled (first review to begin October 5, 2026).

Shift

Monday - Friday; 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Work Location

Environmental Engineering

Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Summary

For information on county benefits, view Employee Benefits Summary.