Construction Equipment Operator

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator
Job Description
This entry-level Heavy Equipment Operator role focuses on safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery to support landfill development, earthmoving, grading, and excavation activities. You will work primarily on landfill construction and maintenance projects, performing precision work in compliance with engineering plans, environmental regulations, and strict safety standards while collaborating closely with a field team.
Responsibilities

• Operate dozers and excavators to move, grade, and compact soil and other materials for landfill construction and cell development.
• Perform earthmoving, excavation, trenching, and slope grading in accordance with engineering plans, grade stakes, and project specifications.
• Maintain proper compaction and grading to ensure compliance with landfill design requirements and environmental standards.
• Cross-train on and safely operate various types of heavy equipment, including tractors, front end loaders, compactors, and single axis dump trucks as needed.
• Conduct thorough daily equipment inspections and promptly report any maintenance needs or mechanical issues.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and site-specific safety procedures.
• Collaborate with site supervisors and other crew members to meet project timelines and production goals.
• Maintain accurate logs and documentation of work performed, equipment usage, and any issues encountered.
• Support landfill operations and maintenance activities as assigned, including working individually or as part of a team on fill operations.
• Participate in overtime and occasional Saturday work to support project schedules and operational needs.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience operating dozers and excavators in construction or landfill environments.
• At least 1 year of experience operating tractors, farm equipment, single axis dump trucks, front end loaders, bull dozers, or compactors in landfill construction, road construction, environmental remediation, or similar industries.
• Proven ability to safely operate heavy equipment for earthmoving, grading, and excavation tasks.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, and related documentation.
• Strong understanding of earthmoving techniques and landfill construction requirements.
• Demonstrated track record of adhering to safety protocols while operating heavy equipment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a field-based environment.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Capability to lift up to 50 pounds and sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Ability to work overtime and occasionally on Saturdays as needed.
• Willingness to complete a drug screen, background check, and work-ready physical.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with excavators, dozers, front end loaders, tractors, compactors, and single axis dump trucks.
• Experience in construction, road construction, landfill operations, environmental remediation, or earthworks.
• Experience with tractor or farming operations that involve operating heavy or agricultural equipment.
• Heavy equipment operator certification or equivalent experience is preferred but not required.
• Strong attention to detail and precision when grading, compacting, and following engineering specifications.
• Ability to cross-train on various types of heavy equipment and adapt to different site tasks.

Why Work Here?
You will join one of the area's largest and fastest-growing waste management organizations in the Northeast, offering stable long-term employment and comprehensive benefits. The company fosters a culture of loyalty and retention, as demonstrated by the impressive tenure of its workforce, and provides consistent opportunities for overtime and steady hours for those seeking reliable income and career stability.
Work Environment
This role is 100% outdoors, and you will work in all weather conditions throughout the year on active landfill and construction sites. Typical shifts run Monday through Friday starting between 6:00 am and 6:30 am and ending between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm, with optional Saturday shifts from approximately 6:00-6:30 am to 12:00-1:00 pm. You can expect 10-15 hours of overtime per week. Work involves operating heavy equipment for extended periods, often on uneven terrain, and requires consistent use of personal protective equipment in accordance with site safety rules. You will work both individually and as part of a team on landfill fill operations and maintenance activities in a field-based, physically demanding environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Plattsburgh, NY.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $24.00/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 and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Plattsburgh,NY.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.


Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.