SITE OPERATOR - HEAVY EQUIPMENT

Site Operator

The Site Operator is a field-based position responsible for supporting all phases of site preparation work in advance of vertical construction. Working under the direction of the Site Foreman or Superintendent, the Site Laborer performs hands-on tasks related to grading, excavation, utility installation, and site cleanup. This role is essential to ensuring that development sites are properly prepared to receive underground utilities, concrete flatwork, and building foundations.

Key Responsibilities

Site Preparation & Grading

• Perform rough and finish grading activities to establish proper site elevations and drainage
• Operate hand tools and assist equipment operators during cut, fill, and compaction operations
• Set and check grade stakes to ensure proper elevation tolerances are maintained
• Clear and grub vegetation, debris, and unsuitable material from work areas
• Compact subbase material using plate compactors, jumping jacks, and hand tampers

Utility Installation Support

• Assist in the excavation, installation, and backfill of underground utilities including water lines, sewer lines, storm drainage, and conduit
• Properly bed and backfill utility trenches per project specifications
• Follow trench safety protocols including shoring, sloping, and benching requirements
• Support layout crews in locating and marking utility alignments
• Verify utility pipe grades using laser levels and hand levels

Concrete Pad & Flatwork Preparation

• Prepare subgrade for concrete pads, sidewalks, curbs, and flatwork
• Set and strip forms for concrete placement
• Assist concrete crews with placement, screeding, and finishing operations
• Install vapor barriers, wire mesh, and rebar as directed
• Maintain proper subbase moisture and compaction prior to concrete pours

Equipment Operation & Tool Use

• Safely operate a variety of hand and power tools including shovels, rakes, plate compactors, jumping jacks, concrete vibrators, and pneumatic tools
• Assist equipment operators with spotting during excavation and grading activities
• Perform minor maintenance on small tools and equipment (cleaning, fueling, blade changes)
• Operate skid-steer loaders, dozer, or mini-excavators if certified and directed to do so

Site Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere to all OSHA standards and company safety policies at all times
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including hard hat, safety vest, steel-toed boots, gloves, and eye protection
• Maintain a clean and organized job site, including debris removal and spoil management
• Participate in daily toolbox talks and job hazard analysis (JHA) meetings
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, near-misses, or incidents to the Foreman

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 1 year of experience in site work, civil construction, or a related labor trade
• Ability to read and interpret basic grading plans, utility plans, and field markings
• Familiarity with underground utility installation practices (water, sewer, storm, and conduit)
• Working knowledge of hand tools and small power equipment used in site work
• Strong understanding of job site safety and ability to work in compliance with OSHA regulations
• Physical ability to perform sustained manual labor including lifting up to 75 lbs, digging, bending, kneeling, and working in varying weather conditions
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification
• Experience with trench safety / competent person designation
• Operator experience with skid-steer, mini-excavator, or similar compact equipment

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position is performed entirely outdoors on active construction sites. Site Laborers are exposed to varying weather conditions, noise, dust, vibration, and heavy equipment. The role requires standing, walking, and performing strenuous physical activity for extended periods throughout the workday. Overtime and weekend work may be required based on project schedule demands.