Trades ​/ Skilled Labor Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator

Location: Jane Lew

Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description
1. Purpose This policy defines the responsibilities, expectations, and performance standards for Heavy Equipment Operators. The goal is to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality operation of all equipment used on company projects.
2.

Role Overview Heavy Equipment Operators are responsible for operating machinery safely and productively, supporting field crews, and performing work according to plans, specifications, and Superintendent/Foreman direction.

Operators play a critical role in production, safety, and equipment care. They report directly to the Project Superintendent and Foreman, and coordinate closely with the Equipment Manager.
3. Core Responsibilities & Performance Standards

A. Safe Operation of Equipment Responsibilities Operate  equipment in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and company safety standards.

Conduct pre‑shift inspections and immediately report defects or hazards.

Maintain full awareness of surroundings, personnel, and site conditions.

Follow all signals, directions, and communication protocols.

Performance Standards Zero preventable incidents or unsafe behaviors.

Pre‑shift inspections completed accurately every day.

Equipment operated smoothly, safely, and professionally.

B. Production & Task Execution Responsibilities Perform  assigned tasks efficiently, including excavation, grading, loading, hauling, trenching, and material handling.

Follow grade stakes, layout, and instructions from Surveyors and Foremen.

Maintain consistent production rates and support daily schedule goals.

Adjust operations based on changing site conditions.

Performance Standards Daily production targets consistently met.

Minimal rework due to operator error.

Work performed to required tolerances and specifications.

C. Equipment Care & Preventive Maintenance Responsibilities Perform  daily walk‑arounds, fluid checks, and basic maintenance.

Keep equipment clean, fueled, and properly lubricated.

Report mechanical issues immediately to the Foreman and Equipment Manager.

Protect equipment from damage, misuse, or unnecessary wear.

Performance Standards Equipment downtime minimized through early reporting.

Machines kept clean and well‑maintained.

No preventable damage due to negligence.

D. Communication & Coordination Responsibilities Maintain  clear communication with Foremen, Superintendents, and ground personnel.

Use radios, hand signals, and communication protocols correctly.

Coordinate movements to avoid conflicts with trucks, crews, and subcontractors.

Ask for clarification when instructions are unclear.

Performance Standards Smooth coordination with field teams.

No miscommunication‑related delays or safety issues.

Professional, respectful communication at all times.

E. Site Awareness & Safety Compliance Responsibilities Maintain  awareness of utilities, overhead hazards, trenches, and traffic.

Follow all site‑specific safety plans and JHAs.Use required PPE and follow lockout/tagout procedures when applicable.

Stop work and notify leadership if unsafe conditions exist.

Performance Standards Hazards identified and addressed proactively.

Full compliance with PPE and safety procedures.

Positive safety behavior observed by leadership.

F. Quality Control Responsibilities Ensure  work meets grade, alignment, and compaction requirements.

Perform fine grading and finish work when required.

Notify Foreman or Surveyor of grade conflicts or discrepancies.

Avoid over‑excavation, over‑compaction, or unnecessary rework.

Performance Standards High‑quality work with minimal corrections.

Accurate cuts, fills, and slopes.

Positive feedback from Surveyors and Superintendents.a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb;}tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #;}tr th { background-color: #;}Qualifications Minimum high school diploma or GED preferred.

Prior experience operating heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, rollers, haul trucks, or similar machinery.

Demonstrated ability to safely operate equipment in compliance with company policies, manufacturer guidelines, and job site safety requirements.

Knowledge of excavation, grading, trenching, loading, hauling, material handling, and site…