Heavy Equipment Operator in Savannah

Energy Jobline ZR; Savannah (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

SG Development & Consulting Inc. in Savannah, GA is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate excavators, backhoes, bulldozers and related machinery on underground utility installations and site development projects.

You will read blueprints, trench and grade, coordinate with pipe crews, and perform daily equipment inspections while adhering to OSHA regulations and project specifications. This role requires a CDL and OSHA certifications, strong teamwork, and a commitment to safety on

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of two years operating heavy construction equipment.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, grade stakes, and project plans.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment safely during underground utility installation and site development.
• Read drawings and blueprints and coordinate with crews to ensure accurate grading.
• Perform daily inspections and maintenance, reporting faults promptly.
• Maintain safety compliance with OSHA regulations and project specifications.
• Support with other labor duties when equipment isn't required.

Skills

Safety First

Communication

Operational versatility

Blueprint interpretation

Mechanical aptitude

Education

CDL

OSHA 10/30 Construction Certification

NCCER Heavy Equipment Operator Certification

Competent Person – Excavation Safety Training

Tools

GPS machine control systems

Job description

Job Description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Position Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy construction equipment in support of underground utility installation, site development, excavation, grading, and other heavy civil construction activities. This position plays a critical role in the successful completion of projects by operating equipment with precision while maintaining compliance with company policies, safety regulations, project specifications, and federal installation requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate heavy construction equipment, including but not limited to:
• • Hydraulic excavators
  • Backhoes
  • Bulldozers
  • Wheel loaders
  • Skid steer loaders
  • Rollers/ Compactors
  • Articulated dump trucks
  • Motor graders
  • Telehandlers (when qualified)
• Perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, and material handling for underground utility installation, including water, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, force main, and related infrastructure.
• Excavate around existing underground utilities while maintaining required clearances and minimizing risk of damage.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, blueprints, utility plans, grade stakes, cut sheets, and project specifications.
• Assist with the installation of underground utilities by excavating to proper depth and grade.
• Work closely with pipe crews, laborers, survey personnel, and supervisors to ensure work is completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.
• Perform daily pre-trip and post-operation equipment inspections and report any mechanical deficiencies immediately.
• Conduct routine equipment maintenance, including fueling, greasing, cleaning, checking fluid levels, and monitoring machine performance.
• Identify unsafe conditions and immediately report hazards, damaged utilities, or equipment issues.
• Assist with loading, unloading, transporting, and securing equipment and materials as needed.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, project-specific requirements, and federal installation security protocols.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and actively participate in safety meetings and training.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and assist with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required.
• Represent the company professionally while interacting with clients, inspectors, subcontractors, and government personnel.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED .
• US
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience operating heavy construction equipment in heavy civil or underground utility construction.
• Demonstrated ability to safely operate multiple types of heavy equipment.
• Working knowledge of excavation safety and trenching requirements.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, grade stakes, utility markings, and project plans.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain access to federal, military, and other secure project sites, including successfully passing required background screenings when applicable.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.

Qualifications

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour Construction Certification
• NCCER Heavy Equipment Operator Certification
• Competent Person – Excavation Safety Training
• Experience with GPS machine control systems
• Experience performing work on federal or military construction projects

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Safe operation of heavy construction equipment.
• Knowledge of underground utility installation methods and practices.
• Understanding of excavation safety, trench protection, and utility locating procedures.
• Ability to recognize and avoid underground utility conflicts.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to identify equipment issues.
• Excellent situational awareness and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining communication with supervisors and crew members.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Frequently climb on and off heavy equipment.
• Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
• Walk on uneven terrain and work around active construction sites.
• Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.

Working Conditions

• Heavy civil construction sites, utility projects, and federal installations.
• Exposure to loud noise, dust, vibration, heavy equipment, moving vehicles, and changing weather conditions.
• Overtime, weekend work, travel, and overnight stays may be required based on project needs.
• Must comply with all company policies, customer requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Core Competencies

• Safety First
• Integrity and Accountability
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Communication
• Dependability
• Quality Workmanship
• Adaptability
• Problem Solving
• Professionalism

Company Description

SG Development & Consulting Inc. was established in 2020 by Scott Silvia and Travis Garland, two accomplished entrepreneurs and 24-year veterans of the United States Navy. Having served together on multiple tours of duty, Scott and Travis forged a strong personal and professional bond built on trust, discipline, and shared leadership.

During and after retiring from active duty, both Scott and Travis made successful transitions to civilian life by individually owning and operating other businesses. These ventures equipped them with invaluable experience in leadership, operations, and client service—skills that laid the groundwork for their next ambitious endeavor: SG Development & Consulting Inc.

Driven by a shared vision and a commitment to excellence, they founded what has quickly become one of the fastest-growing construction companies in the region. Their military-honed values—integrity, accountability, and precision—form the foundation of the company’s culture and operations.

Today, SG Development & Consulting Inc. stands out for its mission-focused approach, reliable execution, and deep industry expertise, delivering high-quality construction solutions to clients across a range of sectors.