Heavy Equipment Operator, Senior

Lee County; Fort Myers (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee County is seeking a Senior Heavy Equipment Operator to manage and operate various heavy machinery for complex construction projects. This role demands strong technical and safety skills, along with the ability to perform manual labor and effectively coordinate with teams on-site. Candidates should possess a high school diploma or GED, substantial experience in construction, and a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• 3 years of hands-on construction or heavy equipment experience required.
• Valid class A or B Commercial Driver's License needed.
• Familiarity with construction processes and materials.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery including bulldozers and backhoes.
• Perform manual labor and ensure safety guidelines are followed.
• Collaborate with team members to complete construction tasks.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Physical Labor

Knowledge of OSHA Regulations

Education

High school graduation or GED

Tools

Heavy Machinery

Hand Tools

Power Tools

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator, Senior is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of heavy machinery such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, and loaders on complex construction projects. In addition to operating equipment, the role involves site coordination with stakeholders, troubleshooting equipment issues, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. A strong knowledge of OSHA regulations and safety protocols is essential, along with the ability to mentor junior operators. The operator also performs manual labor tasks, including shoveling, raking, landscaping, and hauling materials. This position requires proficiency in both equipment operation and general construction labor, including the use of hand tools and power tools, and the ability to identify and resolve issues with equipment or materials. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is critical, and the operator may also supervise a small crew in the absence of the supervisor. Adaptability, precision, and the ability to switch between operating equipment and performing manual labor are key to success in this role.

• Operate one or more pieces of heavy machinery but not limited to graders, excavators, Gradall, batwing tractor and skid steer in a proficient manor.
• Able to learn the asset management system to track the required information pertaining to each task.
• Assist in hauling equipment and materials, as well as setting up and maintaining Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) procedures.
• Perform all labor duties as assigned by supervision such as digging, raking, potholing, concrete work and laying sod to name a few.
• Collaborate with team members and supervision to ensure the successful completion of
• each work task.
• The ability to switch between operating equipment and manual labor as needed.
• Follow all safety guidelines and industry regulations to maintain a safe work environment.

• Education and Experience :
  • The job requires a combination of education and/or experience equivalent to high school graduation or a GED.
  • Additionally, candidates should have three years of hands-on construction, pipe laying/trenching, landscaping, concrete work, heavy equipment experience, or closely related experience.
• Driver’s License :
  • A valid class A Commercial Learners Permit or a class B Commercial Driver's License (required for employment).
  • The ability to obtain a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License within six months of employment.
• Safety-Sensitive Position :
  • This role is safety-sensitive, meaning it is subject to Drug and Alcohol Workplace Testing as per DOT regulations (49 CFR-Parts 40 and/or 382).
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Valid Florida Class A Commercial Driver's License.
  • Experience in performing finish grading, ensuring the creation of smooth, flat, and level road surfaces.

• Basic Knowledge of construction processes and material handling.
• Familiarity with safe operation of hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment.
• Ability to perform physical labor and work in varying environmental conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to identify and resolve equipment or material issues.
• Previous experience operating heavy machinery and performing construction-related tasks is preferred.
• The workdays and hours for this position are Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or Tuesday- Friday 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.