OPERATOR – Utility Solar

Arch Electric, Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 62,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Arch Electric, Inc. is seeking an Operator to operate heavy equipment on utility-scale solar projects, working with Civil Superintendent and field teams to maintain productivity, quality and schedule.

Responsibilities include site grading, drainage, and installation support; perform inspections; read civil drawings; maintain safety; travel to remote sites; opportunities for overtime.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience operating heavy civil construction equipment.
• Experience with excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers.
• Ability to read basic civil drawings and plans.
• Strong safety focus and OSHA/company protocol adherence.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Class A CDL required.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy civil construction equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, skid steers, compactors, and graders.
• Perform site grading, trenching, drainage installation, foundation preparation, and road construction.
• Support logistics and installation of electrical and mechanical equipment.
• Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections.
• Follow project plans and civil drawings to complete work.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment on the jobsite.
• Coordinate with superintendents, operators, and labor crews for efficient workflow.
• Report malfunctions or safety hazards to leadership.
• Assist with erosion control and environmental compliance measures.

Skills

Class A CDL

2-3 years experience

Multiple equipment types

Grading & drainage

Read civil drawings

OSHA compliance

Team communication

Valid driver’s license

Job description

An Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment to support site development, logistics, and various installation tasks on utility-scale solar projects. They will work closely with the Civil Superintendent, Foreman Operator, field crews, and subcontractors to maintain productivity, quality, and schedule compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed below. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Operate heavy civil construction equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, skid steers, compactors, and graders.
• Perform site grading, trenching, drainage installation, foundation preparation, and road construction as directed.
• Operate heavy equipment to support logistics and installation of electrical and mechanical equipment such as pile drivers, skid steers, telehandlers and excavators.
• Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of equipment to ensure safe operation and proper maintenance.
• Follow project plans, specifications, and civil drawings to complete work accurately.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment on the jobsite.
• Coordinate with superintendents, operators, and labor crews to ensure efficient workflow.
• Report any equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, or site issues promptly to leadership.
• Assist with erosion control, dust suppression, and other environmental compliance measures as needed

The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principal functions of the occupation. They shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements inherent in the occupation.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

Class A CDL Required

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience operating heavy civil construction equipment, preferably on utility-scale solar, renewable energy, or large infrastructure projects.
• Experience with multiple types of equipment, including excavators, dozers, loaders, and skid steers.
• Knowledge of grading, soil compaction, drainage installation, and site development practices.
• Ability to read basic civil drawings, plans, and instructions.
• Strong attention to safety and adherence to OSHA and company protocols.
• Ability to work as part of a team and communicate effectively on-site.
• Valid driver’s license

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those required of an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to sit and operate or assist with heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move around the jobsite for extended periods of time.
• Frequent use of hands, arms, and legs to install and connect equipment, operate tools, and climb ladders.
• Regularly required to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, and reach.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs. unassisted, and occasionally heavier with assistance.
• Ability to work at heights, including on ladders, scaffolding, and elevated platforms.
• Visual acuity and hand-eye coordination required for reading diagrams, making precise connections, and operating equipment safely.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Work is performed primarily outdoors on active construction sites.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, rain, and dust.
• Exposure to loud noise levels, vibrations, and construction-related hazards.
• Interaction with multiple teams, subcontractors, and supervisors in a fast-paced environment.
• Work may involve proximity to moving mechanical equipment and heavy machinery.
• May be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and fall protection.
• Travel to remote project sites may be required; overnight stays or extended rotations may apply depending on project needs.
• Opportunities for overtime and per diem on qualifying projects.
• Training and career development in renewable energy, including apprenticeship opportunities.
• Be part of a growing company driving the clean energy transition.