Equipment Operator

Black River Contracting is seeking an experienced Equipment Operator to support earthwork, grading, and underground utility projects across Western South Dakota. This role operates heavy machinery safely and efficiently while maintaining production standards and jobsite quality.

• Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, graders, skid steers, rollers, and haul trucks
• Perform mass grading, fine grading, trenching, back filling, and site prep
• Read grade stakes, cut/fill sheets, and basic construction plans
• Maintain proper slope, compaction, and elevation tolerances
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Work closely with pipe crews and project foremen to maintain schedule
• Follow safety standards and jobsite protocols

• 2+ years heavy equipment operating experience (civil/site preferred)
• Ability to read plans and understand grade control
• Experience with GPS machine control preferred
• Valid driver's license (CDL preferred but not required)
• Strong awareness of jobsite safety and underground utilities

• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
• Physically demanding; extended hours during peak season
• Regional travel within Western SD