Heavy Equipment Operator

Location: Colorado Springs, CO (United States Air Force Academy) Type: Non-Exempt Work Schedule: Full Time. On‑call work may also be required based on operational needs. Compensation: $34.06 – $34.06/hour Deadline: July 3, 2026 Position Overview We are seeking a dependable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to support essential operations at the U.S. Air Force Academy. This hands‑on role involves operating machinery such as sweepers, loaders, plows, and refuse trucks to maintain runways, roads, and base infrastructure. The position may be stationed at the USAFA Airfield supporting airfield maintenance and snow removal operations to help ensure safe runway and roadway conditions for mission‑critical activities. Responsibilities Operate various heavy and light equipment in the maintenance and new construction of projects such as preparing, paving, and patching streets and parking lots; maintain gravel and other earth‑surfaced roads and access roads; blade roads and ditches; remove and/install culverts; crack seal; clear weeds; etc. Read and interpret grade and slope stakes and simple plans. Communicate with customers in a courteous and respectful manner. Perform snow and ice removal operations across USAFA grounds, ensuring safe and efficient access during inclement weather. Support paving operations by hauling materials, staging equipment, and assisting with site prep to ensure smooth and timely project execution. Perform daily safety and maintenance checks. Clean heavy equipment as scheduled or required. Participate in routine maintenance. Grease, adjust, and make emergency repairs to equipment as required. Apply all code requirements during installations, repairs, and maintenance. Ensure all requirements are met as specified by the manufacturer of systems and fixtures. Ensure all installations, repairs, and maintenance are properly sized, aligned, supported, and graded. Ensure all installations, repairs, and maintenance meet environmental protection requirements. Maintain preventive maintenance and repair records. Read and understand drawings, work plans, and maps. Maintain professionalism in both appearance and demeanor. Respond within one hour when on standby. Qualifications 3–5 years operating heavy equipment in construction, maintenance, or military support environments. Heavy Equipment Operator Certification preferred. Proficient in operating heavy equipment (e.g., sweepers, plows, loaders, compactors). Ability to read grade stakes, slope indicators, and basic construction plans. Strong understanding of safety protocols and proper PPE usage. Basic mechanical skills for equipment maintenance and emergency repairs. Familiarity with preventive maintenance tracking and reporting. Effective communication and teamwork in a military or structured environment. Physical Requirements May be required to reach, kneel, walk, stand, and use repetitive motion for several hours at a time based on position duties. Work may require repetitive motion, reaching, lifting, kneeling, and walking. Standing or sitting for several hours, climbing in and out of a vehicle, and up and down stairs may also be required. Must persevere and work effectively under pressure for extended periods of time. Requirements A valid state driver’s license is required with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance. CDL Class B required. Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID‑compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act. Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access. A background check and E‑Verify will be conducted for this position. Union Affiliation This position is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 113. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) retirement plan, Life & Short‑Term Disability Insurance. $8.78/hr Health and Welfare Benefit. Flexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care. 11 paid federal holidays and paid time off. Potential shared earning bonus. Tuition assistance available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependents. Professional development, certifications, and training opportunities. Verizon wireless discount. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and an engaging wellness program. Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full‑time employees. Tessera is an equal opportunity employer – Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled. Tessera participates in E‑Verify. #J-18808-Ljbffr Tessera