Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment OperatorJob Title - Heavy Equipment OperatorDepartment Name - Research FarmsWork Location - Lexington, KYGrade Level - 40Salary Range - $15.61-24.99/hourType of Position - StaffPosition Time Status - Full-TimeRequired Education - HSRequired Related Experience - 2 yrsRequired License/Registration/Certification - Commercial Driver's License or Acquire a CDL within 90 days of employment.Physical Requirements - Must be able to lift, push or pull objects up to 50lbs or more. May require sitting for long periods at time. Performing heavy equipment projects both on and off the farm, which would require transporting the piece of equipment to the job site. Able to work in varying climates outside.Shift - Monday-Friday, 7:00am-4:00pm, 40 hrs/week, occasional overtime and possible weekend and Holidays required.Job Summary - Help Maintain the Infrastructure That Supports Agricultural Research and EducationThe University of Kentucky is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to support the Research Farms division within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Based at the university's 1,800-acre North Farm, this role plays an important part in maintaining facilities, supporting agricultural operations, and completing infrastructure projects that advance research, teaching, and Extension activities. The successful candidate will operate heavy equipment, perform routine maintenance, and help ensure farm facilities remain safe, functional, and ready to support a wide range of initiatives.What You'll DoOperate heavy equipment, heavy trucks, and agricultural machinery in support of research, farm, and facility projectsAssist with roadway installation, site development, demolition, land clearing, drainage improvements, and related infrastructure workRespond to work orders and support operational needs across the North Farm and associated facilitiesPerform routine equipment inspections, maintenance, and minor repairsMaintain records related to equipment, work orders, time reporting, and licensing requirementsEnsure work is completed in accordance with safety standards, regulations, and established proceduresMaintain equipment, tools, supplies, and consumables needed for daily operationsSupport project completion through effective communication, planning, and teamworkWhat You'll BringExperience operating heavy equipment, commercial vehicles, or agricultural machineryBasic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine maintenance and minor repairsStrong commitment to workplace safety and quality workmanshipAbility to prioritize work, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing needsStrong communication and customer service skillsAbility to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environmentMinimum RequirementsHigh school diploma or equivalent2 years of related experienceCommercial Driver's License (CDL) or ability to obtain a CDL within 90 days of employmentWhat's In It for YouMeaningful impact: Support research, teaching, and agricultural operations that benefit Kentucky and beyondHands-on work: Operate a variety of heavy equipment and contribute to important farm infrastructure projectsProfessional growth: Build skills in equipment operation, maintenance, and agricultural facility managementStable schedule: Full-time position with minimal overtime requirementsTeam environment: Work alongside dedicated professionals in a collaborative farm operations settingUK's Exceptional BenefitsWhy Now?The North Farm serves as a critical resource for agricultural research, education, and Extension programs across the university. Maintaining roads, facilities, equipment, and operational infrastructure is essential to supporting the work of faculty, staff, students, and researchers. In this role, you'll help ensure the farm remains a safe, efficient, and productive environment while contributing to projects that support the future of agriculture and innovation in Kentucky.For additional information about the Research Farm division, please click here. To find out more about Martin-GattonCAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, click here.Our University Community - We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.