Excavation Equipment Operator

Location: Las Animas

Build What Matters – Join Carrigan Excavating as a Experienced Excavation Heavy Equipment Operator (CDL Preferred)!

Job Title:

Excavation Equipment Operator (CDL Preferred)
Company Name:  Carrigan Excavating
Pay Range:  $22–$27 per hour (based on experience) + Performance Bonus

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Schedule:

Monday–Friday

Location:

Lamar, CO
Type of Construction/Work we perform:  Heavy Equipment / Rigging (Residential, Commercial, Government or Federal)
Job Overview   Carrigan Excavating is seeking two Experienced Excavation Heavy Equipment Operators (CDL Preferred) to join our Field Operations team. This full-time role is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy machinery across residential, commercial, municipal, agricultural, and aggregate projects throughout Southeastern Colorado.
Our operators take pride in their craft—running equipment with precision, maintaining productivity, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. If you are a skilled professional who thrives in outdoor environments and values teamwork, safety, and quality workmanship, we want to hear from you.
Who We Are   Carrigan Excavating is a family-owned excavation company serving Southeastern Colorado for over 30 years. We support local communities, farmers, ranchers, and businesses with reliable excavation services across residential, commercial, and government sectors.
Our mission centers around service—to our team, our customers, and our community. We are committed to safety, efficiency, innovation, and creating opportunities for growth and advancement. At Carrigan Excavating, you are more than an employee—you are part of a team that values integrity, craftsmanship, and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities
Operate heavy equipment including skid steers, backhoes, excavators, dozers, loaders, and related machinery

Perform excavation tasks including digging, grading, trenching, lifting, and moving materials

Dig, locate, and repair underground utilities

Load, secure, and transport materials and equipment

Read and interpret blueprints, job scopes, layouts, and diagrams

Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment

Identify and report mechanical or safety concerns immediately

Ensure OSHA compliance and maintain a safe job site

Coordinate daily tasks and equipment needs with the Foreman

Monitor job progress to maintain schedule and cost control

Secure equipment and materials at the end of each workday

Complete required documentation including timecards, quality control forms, and job tracking reports

Train and support new operators and crew members as needed

Maintain professional communication with customers, crew members, and leadership

Qualifications
3 years of experience operating heavy equipment preferred

High School Diploma or GED preferred

Valid driver’s license without restrictions

CDL-A license preferred

Equipment operation certifications preferred

Experience in municipal, agricultural, and aggregate applications preferred

Ability to read and interpret blueprints and job scopes

Strong understanding of excavation safety and OSHA regulations

Ability to work outdoors in varying seasonal weather conditions

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure

Physical ability to stand, sit, bend, lift, and perform demanding tasks for extended periods

Effective communication skills and ability to work in a team environment

Benefits
Compensation & Financial Benefits

Weekly pay cycle

Performance bonus opportunities

Retirement savings program

Employee stock or profit share opportunities

Referral bonus program

Prevailing wage project opportunities

Health & Wellness

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Safety equipment provided

Work-Life Balance

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

Paid sick leave

Paid parental leave

Career Growth & Development

Paid training and certifications

Apprenticeship and mentorship programs

Personal tool replacement program

Tech package (smartphone or tablet)

Opportunities for advancement within Field Operations

Additional Perks

Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (as applicable)

Annual trips and company outings

Team events

Employee rewards programs

Community and charity involvement

Work Schedule
Full-Time

Monday – Friday

Overtime may be available depending on project needs

Work Location
Based in Southeastern Colorado

Remote job sites throughout the region

Primarily outdoor work in seasonal conditions

Local travel required between job sites

Equal Employment Opportunity    We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.