Heavy Equipment Operator - Public Works​/Utilities

Position: Heavy Equipment Operator - Public Works / Utilities

Job Title

Heavy Equipment Operator – Public Works / Utilities

Company

CEM Construction Corp

Location

Los Angeles County and surrounding areas

Employment Type

Full‑Time | Monday – Friday

Job Overview

CEM Construction Corp is seeking an experienced and safety‑driven Heavy Equipment Operator – Public Works / Utilities to join our field operations team. This role is critical to the installation and maintenance of underground wet utilities, including potable water, sanitary sewer, and storm drain systems on public works projects. You will operate heavy equipment, read civil drawings, and work closely with crew members to ensure all utility installations meet public agency specifications and comply with prevailing wage laws and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (excavators, backhoes, trenchers, loaders, etc.) for wet utility construction.
• Excavate and backfill trenches in line with engineered drawings and municipal specs.
• Read and interpret grade sheets, utility layouts, and civil plans.
• Collaborate with foremen, pipe layers, and laborers to ensure site coordination and safety.
• Avoid utility conflicts by verifying locates and observing markings.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance.
• Complete equipment logs, timesheets, and project documentation accurately.
• Set up job sites including traffic control and erosion control per agency requirements.
• Follow all trench safety, confined space, and OSHA compliance protocols.

Qualifications Education & Experience

• 3+ years of experience in wet utility excavation and pipe installation.
• Experience with Caltrans, city, or county public works standards.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid Class C driver’s license required (Class A/B preferred).
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Construction Certification preferred.
• Heavy Equipment Operator certification preferred (as required by jurisdiction).
• CPR/First Aid Certification a plus.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of trench safety, public works inspection processes, and prevailing wage compliance.
• Proficiency reading civil drawings and working from grades.
• Team‑oriented with a strong commitment to safety and efficiency.
• Experience working under union labor regulations is a plus.

Benefits

• Weekly Pay Cycle
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, and Holidays)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Paid Training and Certifications
• Tool/Equipment Allowances
• Company Events & Team Culture
• Career Development & Advancement Opportunities

Schedule

Full‑Time, Monday‑Friday
8‑10 hour shifts, with occasional overtime or weekend work based on project needs

Work Location

Project sites across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas
Must be open to regional travel to active sites

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

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.

Compliance Statement

A background check will be completed as part of the onboarding process, in compliance with applicable laws.

#J-18808-Ljbffr