Utility Operator | Paving Crew

Duininck; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 33,062 - 55,104; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Per Diem

Health Plans

Dental & Vision Plans

Company Paid Life insurance & Short‑Or

Short-Term Disability

Personal protective equipment provided

401K with company match

Job summary

Duininck is looking for a seasonal, full-time Heavy Equipment Operator to support a variety of earthwork, paving and underground projects. You will safely operate equipment, work with crews, and help deliver quality results with a strong safety focus.

The role requires travel within Central & Western Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and the Eastern Dakotas, and may involve extended or overtime hours during the construction season. Competitive pay and benefits accompany the position.

Qualifications

• Experience safely operating a variety of heavy equipment (loaders, dozers, excavators, etc.).
• Ability to work with crew signals and maintain safety protocols.
• Willingness to travel and work long or irregular hours during the construction season.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate heavy equipment to excavate, move, load, and grade earth and other materials.
• Coordinate with crew using hand signals and clear communication for safe operations.
• Perform daily inspections, lubrication, fluid checks, and basic maintenance; report issues to shop.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety-conscious

Team communication

Job description

Duininck is a fourth-generation, 100-year family-led company focused on building strong communities through our relationships with customers, employees, subcontractors and vendors. We have a diverse portfolio of businesses managing projects at any scale.

From highways and municipal projects to commercial developments, excavation, underground utilities, and paving, we take pride in shaping the infrastructure that helps the communities we work in thrive. Our work is about more than construction; it's about supporting the communities where we live and work, creating opportunities for growth on our crews, and building lasting value for generations to come.

This seasonal, full-time position comes with a strong benefits package including:

• Competitive pay range of $24 to $40 per hour, based on experience
• Paid Time Off
• Per Diem (when applicable)
• Strong Health Plans to choose from
• Dental & Vision Plans, Company Paid Life insurance & Short-Term Disability
• Position specific personal protective equipment provided
• 401K with company match, and more!

This position with the Duininck Construction team offers the opportunity to operate heavy equipment on a variety of earthwork, paving and underground projects, contributing to safe operations, quality production, and successful project delivery.

The Role:

• Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to excavate, move, load, and grade earth, rock, gravel, and other materials.
• Work closely with crew members using hand signals and communication to coordinate work and ensure safety.
• Perform daily inspections, lubrication, fluid checks, and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Notify the shop when maintenance or repairs are needed.
• Keep equipment clean and prepare machinery for transport when required.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe jobsite.
• Follow supervisor instructions and complete assignments accurately and efficiently.
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Walk, bend, kneel, lift, stretch, and sit for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Regularly work extended or overtime hours depending on project needs.
• Travel throughout Central & Western Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and the Eastern Dakotas.

What we Look For:

• Strong understanding and ability to operate a variety of heavy equipment, including loaders, dozers, excavators, etc.
• Individuals who work safely and have the courage to speak up when unsafe behavior or conditions arise.
• Understanding of equipment operation, safety regulations, and PPE requirements.
• Awareness of OSHA standards for construction environments.
• Ability to coordinate with crew members and communicate clearly.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality work.
• Willingness to travel and work long or irregular hours during the construction season.

Duininck is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetics, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or citizenship status. If you would like more information on your EEO rights under the law,