Utility Operator | Paving Crew

Duininck Minnesota and South Dakota; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 33,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Paid Time Off

Per Diem

Health plans

Dental & Vision plans

Company paid life insurance & Short‑/a

401K with company match

Job summary

Duininck Construction is seeking a seasonal, full-time Heavy Equipment Operator to support earthwork, paving and underground projects across Minnesota, Iowa, and the Dakotas. You will operate loaders, dozers and excavators while following safety standards and coordinating with the crew to ensure efficient, high-quality production.

The role requires physical stamina, outdoor work in varying weather and willingness to travel.

Qualifications

• Operate a variety of heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
• Follow safety protocols and maintain PPE usage at all times.
• Coordinate with crew using hand signals and clear communication.
• Demonstrate attention to detail and commitment to quality work.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate loaders, dozers, excavators and other heavy equipment.
• Collaborate with crew to coordinate tasks and ensure safety.
• Perform pre- and post-shift inspections and basic maintenance.
• Notify shop for repairs and maintain equipment cleanliness.
• Keep a tidy, safe jobsite and follow supervisor guidance.
• Travel across Central & Western Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and the Eastern Dakotas.
• Work extended or irregular hours during the construction season.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety awareness

Clear communication

Attention to detail

Willingness to travel

Job description

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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.