Heavy Equipment Operator 

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Job Type: Full-time

This job description is for a Heavy Equipment Operator that will operate multiple pieces of large machinery to excavate, grade, move materials, and prepare sites for civil construction projects. 

Summary 

The heavy equipment operator is responsible for performing tasks safely and efficiently while maintaining equipment and adhering to all site regulations. 

Duties and responsibilities

  • Site preparation: Operate track hoes to dig trenches, foundations, and holes, as well as move earth, debris, and other materials.
  • Earth moving and grading: Utilize bulldozers to clear and level large areas of land, spread materials, and achieve specific grade requirements.
  • Loading and hauling: Maneuver large articulated or off-road dump trucks to transport heavy materials like soil, rock, and gravel across job sites and haul them to designated locations.
  • Fine grading and material handling: Use skid steers with various attachments to conduct fine grading, clear debris, and move materials in tighter spaces.
  • Precision work: Interpret and follow instructions from blueprints, engineering plans, and grade stakes to execute tasks accurately.
  • Equipment maintenance: Conduct routine pre- and post-operation inspections and perform basic maintenance, such as fueling, lubricating, and cleaning. Report all mechanical issues or major repairs to a supervisor.
  • Safety protocols: Adhere strictly to all company and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety regulations and procedures.
  • Communication: Coordinate with ground crews, supervisors, and other operators using hand signals or two-way radios to ensure safety and workflow efficiency. 

Qualifications

  • Experience: Proven, extensive experience (typically 3–5 years or more) operating large construction equipment, specifically track hoes, bulldozers, skid steers, and off-road dump trucks.
  • Certifications:
    • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): May be required or preferred, especially for operating dump trucks on public roads.
    • OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Certification: Preferred to demonstrate knowledge of safety standards.
    • Heavy Equipment Operator Certification: Certifications from organizations like the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) are a plus.
  • Technical skills: Strong mechanical aptitude for performing minor maintenance and troubleshooting equipment. Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, and construction plans.
  • Physical demands: Ability to sit for extended periods while operating machinery. Must be able to perform physical labor, including lifting objects and climbing on equipment.
  • Work environment: Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, navigate uneven terrain, and adapt to changing job site priorities.
  • Personal attributes: Strong communication skills, exceptional hand-eye-foot coordination, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. 

AAP/EEO Statement The Virginia Construction Group does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule

  • 10 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Weekends
  • Overtime
  • Multiple job site locations

Job Application Form

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