Equipment Operator

Position/Job Title: Trailer Operator (Goldhofer, Scheuerle, Faymonville)

Company/Department: Edwards Moving & Rigging / Operations

Reports To: Foreman/Superintendent

FLSA Job Status: Hourly / Non-Exempt

Location: Louisville, Kentucky

Position Summary

Serves as the supervisor in charge in the absence of the Foreman/Superintendent. The leadman is directly responsible for the loadout of equipment as directed by the Foreman/Superintendent in the yard in preparation for mobilizations as well as loadout at the job site in preparation for demobilization.

The Trailer Operator (Goldhofer, Scheuerle, Faymonville) is expected to lead by example, provide guidance and mentorship to Riggers and Apprentices, and ensure all work is completed in accordance with Edwards Moving & Rigging's safety standards, engineering plans, and operational procedures. While the Leadman provides day-to-day direction to the crew, overall project supervision and responsibility remain with the Foreman.

Duties and Responsibilities

Crew Leadership

• Direct the daily work activities of Riggers and Apprentices as assigned by the Foreman/Superintendent.
• Serve as the working leader of the crew while actively participating in field operations.
• Ensure crew members understand assigned tasks, safety expectations, and work priorities.
• Mentor and train less experienced employees in proper rigging techniques, equipment operation, and company procedures.
• Promote teamwork and maintain a productive work environment.

Rigging Operations

• Perform advanced rigging activities involving heavy equipment, transformers, industrial components, and oversized loads.
• Assist with equipment loading, unloading, positioning, jacking, and movement operations.
• Ensure rigging equipment is properly selected, inspected, and used according to company standards.
• Verify loads are properly secured prior to lifting or movement.
• Assist the Foreman in coordinating lifting and movement activities.

Equipment Operation

• Safely operate forklifts, skid steers, hydraulic tools, chain falls, hoists, gantry cranes, Goldhofer platform trailers and other equipment as qualified.
• Supervise and assist in the setup and breakdown of hydraulic jacking systems, slide systems, cribbing, and rigging equipment.
• Inspect tools and equipment before use and report defects or maintenance concerns.

Job Execution

• Carry out work in accordance with engineering drawings, lift plans, Job Hazard Analyses (JHA), and company procedures.
• Monitor crew productivity while maintaining a strong focus on quality and safety.
• Identify potential hazards and immediately communicate concerns to the Foreman/Superintendent.
• Assist with job site preparation, equipment staging, housekeeping, and demobilization.

Communication and Coordination

• Maintain clear communication with the Foreman/Superintendent regarding project progress, manpower needs, equipment issues, and safety concerns.
• Coordinate crew activities to minimize downtime and improve efficiency.
• Provide guidance to crew members throughout the workday and answer task-related questions.

Safety and Compliance

• Lead by example in following all company safety policies and PPE requirements.
• Ensure crew members follow established safety procedures and stop work when unsafe conditions exist.
• Participate in toolbox talks, safety meetings, and job hazard reviews.
• Immediately report accidents, incidents, near misses, or unsafe conditions to the Foreman/Superintendent.

Qualifications and Skills

Leadership and Communication

• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a small crew while maintaining a positive, team-oriented work environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to provide clear direction and instruction.
• Ability to mentor and develop less experienced crew members.

Technical Proficiency

• Thorough understanding of heavy rigging practices, load securement, equipment movement, and proper use of rigging hardware.
• Ability to read and interpret lift plans, rigging plans, and job instructions.
• Experience operating forklifts, skid steers, hydraulic equipment, jack and slide systems, Goldhofer platform trailer, hydraulic gantry systems and other construction equipment as well as experienced in advanced rigging techniques and procedures is preferred.

Judgment and Decision-Making

• Exercises sound judgment while performing field operations.
• Recognizes when issues require escalation to the Foreman/Superintendent.
• Maintains composure and professionalism in fast-paced job site environments.

Safety-First Mindset

• Demonstrates a commitment to Edwards Moving & Rigging's safety culture.
• Promotes safe work practices through leadership and accountability.
• Ensures work quality is never sacrificed for speed.

Training and Development

• Minimum 3-5 years of heavy rigging or related industry experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in advanced rigging techniques.
• Successful completion of company Leadman development and evaluation process.
• Formal Level 1 Rigger Certification required; Level 2 certification preferred or actively pursuing.

Environment and Physical Demands

This position requires regular field work and exposure to outdoor job site conditions. Duties require standing, walking, climbing, lifting, carrying, kneeling, balancing, and working in active construction and heavy rigging environments. Frequent travel to project sites is required based on operational needs. The ability to repeatedly lift up to 50 pounds and safely perform physically demanding work is required.