Heavy Equipment Operator – Prep Crew

Gerken Companies; Napoleon (OH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Company-paid YMCA membership

Dental and vision insurance

Medical insurance through the Operators’ Union

401(k) plan

Growth-oriented work culture

Job summary

A leading construction firm in Napoleon, Ohio is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to prepare construction sites ahead of paving operations. This full-time seasonal position involves operating heavy machinery like mini excavators and dozers, ensuring job sites are safe and ready for work. Applicants must have a high school diploma and operate effectively in a team environment. Benefits include competitive packages and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of construction tools and equipment.
• Ability to remain alert and aware on active job sites.
• Ability to follow direction and work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to changing tasks.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy construction equipment including mini excavators, dozers, graders, and skid steers.
• Clear and prepare construction sites by removing debris, obstacles, and hazards.
• Perform precise grading and site preparation according to project specifications.
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of equipment.
• Support laborers, flaggers, and other skilled workers on the crew.
• Follow all safety protocols and properly use PPE.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Skills

Basic knowledge of construction tools and equipment

Ability to remain alert on active job sites

Teamwork

Ability to adapt to changing tasks

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Mini excavators

Dozers

Graders

Skid steers

Job description

At Gerken Paving, Inc., we’re part of something bigger — The Gerken Companies.

Our values guide how we work every day:

• Integrity in every decision, from operations to customer service
• Safety as a shared responsibility across every site and team
• Shared success that creates stability for our people and strong partnerships with our customers
• Professional development through training, mentorship, and empowering our teams to grow
• Community support because we live where we work and care about the places we serve

If you’re ready to work hard, support paving operations, and be part of a company that values safety and teamwork—this could be the opportunity for you.

About the Role

We’re hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator – Prep Crew to prepare construction sites ahead of paving operations by operating heavy equipment and performing essential groundwork. This is a full‑time, seasonal position that plays an important role in ensuring job sites are ready for safe, smooth, and efficient paving work. Union membership is required for this role.

What You’ll Do

• Operate heavy construction equipment including mini excavators, dozers, graders, and skid steers
• Clear and prepare construction sites by removing debris, obstacles, and hazards
• Perform precise grading and site preparation according to project specifications
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of equipment
• Support laborers, flaggers, and other skilled workers on the crew
• Follow all safety protocols and properly use PPE
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Work outdoors in varying and sometimes extreme weather conditions
• Prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and walking on uneven terrain
• Exposure to noise, dust, fuel, grease, and other construction‑related substances

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Basic knowledge of construction tools and equipment
• Ability to remain alert and aware on active job sites
• Ability to follow direction and work effectively as part of a team
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and adapt to changing tasks

What We Offer

• Competitive benefits package
• Company‑paid or discounted YMCA membership
• Dental and vision insurance
• Medical insurance offered through the Operators’ Union
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) plan
• A supportive and growth‑oriented work culture
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• Stability and a rewarding livelihood for you and your family

Ready to help prepare the foundation for quality paving work? Apply today and join a team that values skill, safety, and hard work.

Gerken Paving, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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