Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description Heavy Equipment Operator/Foreman The Heavy Equipment Foreman oversees and operates a wide range of heavy construction equipment on site development projects, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of earthwork, utility installation, grading, and excavation activities. This role combines hands-on equipment operation with leadership responsibilities to maintain productivity, uphold safety standards, and support effective teamwork in a construction environment. Responsibilities Safely and efficiently operate a variety of heavy equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, front-end loaders, backhoes, skid steers, track hoes, graders, cranes, and other construction machinery. Lead and guide field crews on site development projects, promoting teamwork, productivity, and adherence to project plans and specifications. Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, site layouts, and GPS-guided equipment systems to ensure accurate project execution and grade control. Perform site grading, excavation, trenching, backfilling, digging, and material handling in accordance with project requirements and quality standards. Utilize Topcon GPS machine control systems and other GPS technologies to achieve precise grades and alignments when available. Install and support underground utilities and concrete-related work as part of site development activities. Complete daily equipment inspections and conduct routine equipment maintenance to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation. Monitor job site conditions and enforce OSHA regulations and company safety policies, actively promoting a safe work environment. Maintain clean, organized, and safe job sites, ensuring equipment, materials, and work areas are properly managed. Collaborate closely with supervisors, laborers, and truck drivers to coordinate tasks, maintain productivity, and meet project deadlines. Communicate clearly with team members to relay instructions, report issues, and support effective problem solving on site. Assist with physically demanding field work as needed, including lifting up to 50 pounds and supporting crew activities. Ensure compliance with all pre-employment and ongoing safety and policy requirements, including drug and alcohol screening and background checks. Essential Skills Proven experience operating a wide range of heavy construction equipment, including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, backhoes, skid steers, graders, and similar machinery. Strong background in site development, earthwork, utility installation, grading, and excavation. Ability to read and interpret construction plans, site layouts, grade stakes, and GPS-guided equipment systems. Solid understanding of grade control and best practices for equipment operation in construction environments. Valid driver's license. Ability to work safely and efficiently in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions. Dependable, safety-focused mindset with a strong commitment to producing quality work. Physical ability to perform demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds and assisting with field work. Successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and background check. OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification. Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience utilizing Topcon GPS machine control systems. Experience with GPS-based grade control systems and site layout tools. background working on site development projects that include both vertical and horizontal construction. Knowledge of OSHA 30 / 40 safety standards and practices. Familiarity with equipment maintenance procedures and daily inspection protocols. Experience working with concrete and underground utilities on construction sites. Ability to maintain organized, clean, and safe job sites. Interest in professional growth and taking on increasing responsibility over time Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Meriden, CT. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $40.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax an #J-18808-Ljbffr