An Operating Engineer or Heavy Equipment Operator drives and operates heavy equipment used in quarries, construction sites, landfills, refuse and recycling centers, or ports. Heavy Equipment may include, but is not limited to, bulldozers, excavators, paving equipment and pile drivers.
Non-Exempt Position Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator - Environmental Remediation is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment to support environmental cleanup, restoration, and construction projects. This position performs a combination of excavation, grading, and material handling activities and assists with field labor when not operating equipment. The Operator plays a key role in ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, loaders, dozers, and skid steers in support of soil excavation, grading, backfilling, and site restoration. Support remediation and construction activities including trenching, waste removal, grading, and site preparation under the direction of the Crew Leader or Project Manager. Perform daily equipment inspections, preventative maintenance checks, and report mechanical issues immediately. Load, move, and spread materials such as soil, gravel, and debris using proper operating techniques. Maintain compliance with all safety, health, and environmental policies, including spill prevention and contamination control. Assist with setup and removal of containment systems, erosion control barriers, and job site preparation when not operating equipment. Work closely with environmental and field crews to execute site-specific work plans. Maintain accurate and legible equipment logs and field reports as required. Participate in daily safety meetings, job hazard analyses, and tailgate talks. Perform other related duties as assigned to support safe and efficient project completion. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Proficient in operating multiple types of heavy equipment safely and efficiently. Understanding of environmental remediation and construction site operations. Basic knowledge of soil management, excavation safety, and erosion control practices. Ability to interpret site plans, grades, and instructions from supervisors. Strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and environmental compliance. Ability to perform physical labor and assist field teams as needed. Effective communication and situational awareness on active job sites. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent. Minimum of 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment in construction or environmental remediation. Valid Driver's License with a clean 5-year MVR. Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug/alcohol screenings. Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Willingness to travel to various job sites and work extended hours or weekends as needed. Working Conditions Work is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions. Exposure to soil, dust, vibration, hazardous materials, and uneven terrain. Frequent standing, climbing, bending, lifting (up to 75 lbs), and manual labor in addition to operating heavy machinery. Must be able to safely enter and exit heavy equipment multiple times per day. Safety and Compliance All duties must be performed in accordance with company Health & Safety standards, OSHA regulations, and environmental remediation requirements. Employees are required to attend safety meetings, use required PPE, and immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or equipment deficiencies to their supervisor.
