Heavy Equipment Operator (Bulldozer & Excavator & 637 Scraper)

About the position

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for a large civil highway infrastructure project consisting of a highway. The project is expected to last 3+ years, offering stable work opportunities for dependable candidates seeking long-duration project employment. The role involves operating Bulldozers, Excavators, and 637 Scrapers. Familiarity with GPS machine control is a strong plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform grading and leveling to prepare job sites for construction.
• Prepare substation and switchgear pads to spec, ensuring proper compaction, slope, and elevation tolerances.
• Push, spread, and compact soil, gravel, and other materials.
• Assist in road and pad construction by cutting and shaping terrain.
• Maintain and adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Work closely with site supervisors and civil crews to maintain pace with project timelines.
• Perform excavation, trenching, and digging for foundations, electrical, and pipe.
• Dig, backfill, and grade trenches of the required depth and width to lay electrical conduits or cables.
• Ensure trenches are straight and properly aligned to match project specifications for efficient cable installation.
• Smooth and level the bottom of the trench and grade for drainage.
• Assist in laying pipe by precisely excavating trenches and backfilling materials.
• Operate attachments such as buckets, hammers, and grapples for specialized tasks.
• Work around existing utilities with caution and precision.
• Operate CAT 637 or similar scraper equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform cut/fill operations.
• Load, haul, spread, and dump material to proper grade.
• Work from GPS, grade stakes, site plans, or direction from grade checker/superintendent.
• Maintain proper haul road awareness and safe equipment spacing.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues.
• Work closely with dozers, excavators, motor graders, water trucks, and compactors.
• Maintain production goals while following all site safety requirements.
• Perform rough grading and finish spreading as needed.
• Read and interpret blueprints, site plans, and grade stakes to complete tasks accurately.
• Follow all safety protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance checks.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, crew members, and site managers.
• Adapt to varying job site conditions and complete tasks efficiently.

Requirements

• Proven experience operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators in civil construction.
• Ability to read and understand grading plans and site layouts.
• Experience in civil construction, ideally on solar or energy-related infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and equipment maintenance.
• Physical ability to lift, climb, and work in various weather conditions.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with GPS machine control (Trimble, Topcon, or equivalent) and laser grading technology is a plus.
• A valid CDL or heavy equipment operator certification is preferred.
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification preferred.