Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

The Heavy Equipment Operator works on commercial construction and site development projects, operating a variety of heavy machinery to support grading, excavation, and utility installation. This role focuses on safely and efficiently using equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, front end loaders, and vibratory rollers to prepare sites, move materials, and support the grade crew. The position also requires the ability to work outside the cab when needed and to perform routine maintenance and inspections to keep equipment in optimal working condition.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, front end loaders, and vibratory rollers to move earth, debris, and construction materials.
• Perform excavation and grading tasks, using equipment to dig, level, and fine grade land according to project specifications and plans.
• Prepare construction sites by clearing land, removing obstacles, and establishing proper groundwork for commercial construction and site development projects.
• Handle materials such as dirt, gravel, and rock by loading, transporting, and distributing them safely and efficiently around the job site.
• Install pipe and perform utility-related work as part of site development activities, following project requirements and safety standards.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections, monitor performance, and perform minor repairs and routine maintenance to keep machinery in top operating condition.
• Work collaboratively with the grade crew and other site personnel to coordinate equipment operations and support overall project timelines.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a safety-first mindset while operating equipment and working on foot around active construction areas.
• Work outside the cab as needed to assist with ground tasks, site layout, material handling, and general labor associated with site preparation.
• Adapt to varying site conditions, weather, and project needs across multiple job sites within the Richmond metro area.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of experience installing pipe and performing utility work on construction sites.
• 2–3+ years of hands-on experience operating excavators, bulldozers, and front end loaders.
• Proficiency in grading and fine grading, including rough grade and finish work.
• Demonstrated ability to operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, front end loaders, and vibratory rollers safely and efficiently.
• Experience in commercial construction and site development environments.
• Ability to work comfortably both inside and outside the equipment cab as job tasks require.
• Strong understanding of equipment inspections, basic troubleshooting, and routine maintenance procedures.
• Commitment to a safety-first mindset and adherence to established safety protocols on active construction sites.
• Reliability and flexibility to work varying hours, including some weekends, based on project and weather conditions.

Work Environment

This role is based on active construction sites within the Richmond metro area, with job locations up to approximately 45 minutes from Chester, VA. You typically work 40–50 hours per week, Monday through Friday, from about 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., depending on weather and project needs, with flexibility required for occasional weekend work. The work is primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions and involves operating heavy equipment and performing tasks on foot around active job sites.

You may rotate among approximately 15 different job sites, requiring adaptability to different site conditions and layouts. Work attire should be appropriate for construction environments, including durable clothing and suitable footwear, with a focus on safety and comfort while working around heavy machinery and earthmoving operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $28.00/hr individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge,…