Heavy Equipment Operator - Heavy Civil & Excavation

TerraFirma; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation packages

Equity in TerraFirma

Job summary

TerraFirma is hiring an operator who combines traditional heavy equipment skills with automation and remote control tech. You will work on earthworks, clearing, grading, grubbing, and excavation, using our Mission Control platform on-site.

Role requires comfort with tech tools, strong safety practices, and willingness to relocate to Austin, TX. Compensation varies by experience and education, with equity included in the package.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment for site prep and excavation.
• Proven affinity with technological systems or construction software.
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment for site prep and excavation (excavators, bulldozers, graders, skid steers).
• Learn and use our Mission Control platform and on-site remote control tech.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs digitally.
• Execute excavation tasks following project specs and safety protocols.
• Maintain a safe work environment by following OSHA and site protocols.
• Assist with minor troubleshooting and coordinate with maintenance partners.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Tech literacy

Blueprint/digital plan reading

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Mission Control platform

Job description

At TerraFirma, we’re redefining how the world moves earth for construction. Founded by former SpaceX engineers and backed by Kleiner Perkins and Bain Capital Ventures, TerraFirma is automating construction to make it faster, cheaper, and safer.

Job Overview

In this role, you will combine traditional heavy equipment operation with the use of advanced technologies like automation tools, tele-operation, and our proprietary Mission Control to execute earthworks involving clearing, grading, grubbing, and excavation.

Responsibilities

• Operate advanced heavy equipment for site prep and excavation (e.g., excavators, bulldozers, graders, skid steers, etc.)
• Learn how to use our proprietary Mission Control platform and on-site remote controlling technology
• Perform daily equipment inspections, including onboard tech systems, and report maintenance needs through digital platforms
• Execute excavation tasks while adhering to project specifications and safety protocols
• Maintain a safe work environment by following OSHA regulations, company safety standards, and site-specific protocols
• Assist with minor equipment troubleshooting and coordinate with maintenance partners for repairs

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment for site prep and excavation (e.g., excavators, bulldozers, graders)
• Proven affinity with technological systems or use of construction software
• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Strong understanding of earthworks processes (e.g., grading, compaction, trenching)
• High level of tech literacy and interest in new technologies (e.g., drones, simulators, or digital tools)
• Ability to read and interpret digital site plans, blueprints, and grade stakes
• Ability to work in various weather conditions, lift up to 50 lbs., and perform physically demanding tasks

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license; willingness to travel to project sites and work flexible hours, including weekends when required
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment
• Must be willing to relocate to Austin, TX, if not within commuting distance

Compensation & Benefits

Base compensation will vary based on factors such as relevant experience and education. Salaries and leveling will be determined on a case-by-case basis if an offer is extended. Our total compensation package also includes equity in TerraFirma. Relocation packages are available to help cover moving costs, if applicable.