Heavy Equipment Operator – Water Resources Field Team

Southwest Florida Water Management District; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 24,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

FRS retirement contributions

Paid holidays and leave

Parental leave

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Long-term disability

Retirement benefits

Job summary

Southwest Florida Water Management District is seeking skilled Heavy Equipment Operators to support field maintenance and stewardship of conservation lands in the Tampa area. The role involves operating tractors, bulldozers, and related machinery to care for canals, roads, and restoration sites.

Positions offer a structured schedule, competitive starting pay, and opportunities for advancement through additional certifications.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; CDL within 1 year of hire; NFES burn certificates IS-100/200/700 and L-180 within one year.
• Three (3) years related work experience for Heavy Equipment Operator roles; Four (4) years for Staff Heavy Equipment Operator; Six (6) years for Senior Heavy Equipment Operator.

Responsibilities

• Mows and maintains canals and waterways using tractors and heavy equipment.
• Maintain fence lines, gates, culverts, and riprap embankments.
• Operate various heavy equipment and transport materials to job sites.
• Participate in prescribed burning and wildfire suppression activities as needed.
• Respond to emergencies and assist with incident response as required.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Maintenance & repairs

Emergency response

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

NFES S130/190 and L-180 burn certificate

Tools

CDL Class A

Front end loaders

Bulldozers

Job description

Southwest Florida Water Management District is seeking skilled Heavy Equipment Operators to support field maintenance and stewardship of conservation lands in the Tampa area. The role involves operating tractors, bulldozers, and related machinery to care for canals, roads, and restoration sites.

Positions offer a structured schedule, competitive starting pay, and opportunities for advancement through additional certifications.