Heavy Equipment Operator (Renewables)Gum Swamp solar project , NC

Cinterra, Inc.; North Carolina; On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Cinterra, Inc. is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator I in North Carolina to operate various construction equipment essential for utility-scale solar installations. This role emphasizes safety and requires adherence to company procedures.

The ideal candidate will possess a high school diploma or GED, have 0–2 years of heavy equipment experience, and hold a valid driver’s license. Responsibilities include maintaining equipment safety, assisting with installations, and collaborating closely with team members for successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Familiarity with OSHA regulations preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Operate construction equipment for solar installation.
• Maintain safety and cleanliness at work sites.
• Assist in spotting utilities to avoid damage.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety adherence

Collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Position Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator I is responsible for operating construction equipment—such as bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, and other machinery—to assist with utility‑scale solar installation activities. The role emphasizes safety, requiring strict adherence to all safety procedures while operating equipment. The operator ensures that company equipment, materials, and work sites are maintained, kept clean, and stored safely.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Uphold safety as a core value, supporting the corporate safety program and ensuring personal safety at all times.
• Perform tasks related to grading, excavation, backfilling, and other solar‑related operations, including operating bulldozers, backhoes, track hoes, and loaders under supervision.
• Assist in spotting (potholing) existing utilities, cables, culverts, or other installations to avoid damage.
• Operate equipment around installed solar components—panels, piles, and pads—while maintaining safe clearances.
• Contribute to maintaining and managing spoil piles according to OSHA standards and site‑specific requirements.
• Communicate clearly with spotters and other team members to ensure safe operations.
• Use basic tools such as shovels, rakes, lutes, brooms, picks, hammers, saws, pneumatic hammers, drills, and tamps as needed.
• Report any equipment that requires repair to the foreman promptly.
• Operate heavy equipment in compliance with company safety policies and procedures under guidance.
• Assist in receiving, storing, and protecting project materials and equipment, including owner‑furnished items; report shortages or damage immediately.
• Develop coordination of hand and foot movements to guide machinery safely in and out of tight locations.
• Work closely with the foreman and other team members to support the successful completion of all installations from start to finish.
• Coordinate actions with other workers on busy solar sites to ensure smooth operations.
• Assist the foreman with maintaining accurate daily reports and documentation.
• Work with the foreman to resolve problems arising from inclement weather, emergencies, or other delays.
• Ensure equipment check sheets are accurate and properly maintained.
• Provide assistance to other divisions as needed, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow.
• Exhibit a professional demeanor and encourage professionalism among all project personnel.
• Handle special assignments and other duties as requested by leadership, focusing on skill development and experience.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 0–2 years of experience operating heavy equipment or similar machinery.
• Familiarity with OSHA regulations preferred; willingness to undergo OSHA training and certifications.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Willingness to work long and/or extended hours, including weekends, as needed; ability to travel to various job sites.
• Developing working knowledge of equipment being used, with a focus on learning and improvement.
• Ability to coordinate hand and foot movements for effective machinery guidance.
• Collaborative work style with a strong commitment to learning and task completion.
• Ability to prioritize and multi‑task in a fast‑paced environment, focusing on skill development.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Cinterra provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.