Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

Cleveland Carter Enterprises, Inc. (CCE)—a leading underground utilities construction company specializing in 24/7 emergency sewer and water repair—is seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in Forest Park, GA.

The ideal candidate will have experience operating a variety of heavy construction equipment in underground utility installations and excavations ranging from 8 to 24 feet deep. This position requires a strong commitment to safety, precision, productivity, and teamwork while working in challenging construction environments.

• Safely operate heavy construction equipment including excavators, bulldozers, compactors, articulated trucks, frontend loaders, skid steers (Bobcats), and motor graders.
• Perform excavation work for underground sewer, water, and storm utility installations while maintaining proper trench safety procedures.
• Set and work around trench boxes, shoring systems, and other excavation protection equipment.
• Read grade stakes, follow grading plans, and perform medium to fine grading operations.
• Complete daily preoperation equipment inspections and report any mechanical deficiencies immediately.
• Ensure all equipment is properly fueled, lubricated, and maintained before and during operation.
• Grease equipment fittings before leaving the yard and throughout the workday as necessary.
• Keep equipment clean, including windshields, mirrors, and operator compartments, to maintain safe visibility.
• Operate equipment safely around underground utilities, structures, traffic, pedestrians, and fellow employees.
• Follow all OSHA, company, and projectspecific safety regulations.
• Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Assist with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required.
• Work efficiently to meet project schedules while maintaining quality workmanship.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support operational goals.
Behavioral/Performance Expectations:
• SafetyFocused: Consistently follows all OSHA, excavation safety, and company safety standards.
• Reliable & Punctual: Reports to work on time and prepared for each shift.
• TeamOriented: Works collaboratively with supervisors, pipelayers, laborers, and other crew members.
• Professional: Demonstrates respect for coworkers, customers, and the public.
• Accountable: Takes ownership of assigned equipment, job responsibilities, and workmanship.
• Adaptable: Willingly adjusts to changing job site conditions, schedules, and project needs.
Qualifications:
• Minimum age of 21 years.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Minimum of three (3) years of heavy equipment operating experience in underground utility or civil construction.
• Demonstrated experience operating excavators, loaders, dozers, compactors, and related heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of trench safety systems, excavation practices, and utility construction methods.
• Ability to read grade stakes and understand site plans preferred.
Skills:
• Basic math, reading, and written communication skills.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment for extended periods, including shifts up to 12 hours.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, wind, and cold.
• Ability to work safely around dust, vibration, loud noise, confined work areas, and moving equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds (team lift required for heavier materials).
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Must possess a smartphone and be comfortable using company technology and communication platforms.
• Must be available to work nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays as project needs require.