Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

This role involves safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment on commercial construction and site development projects. You will work as part of a grading crew, using bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, and front-end loaders to perform excavation, grading, and site preparation. You will also regularly assist with tasks outside the cab to support overall site operations and ensure projects meet quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, front-end loaders, and other heavy equipment to move earth, debris, and construction materials.
• Perform excavation and grading activities, including digging, leveling, rough grading, and fine grading in accordance with project specifications and site plans.
• Prepare construction sites by clearing land, removing obstacles, and establishing proper groundwork to support commercial construction and site development.
• Handle materials such as dirt, gravel, rock, and other aggregates by loading, transporting, and distributing them safely and efficiently.
• Assist with site development tasks, including operating vibratory rollers and related equipment as needed to compact soil and materials.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections to identify and address potential issues, ensuring machinery remains in safe working condition.
• Perform minor repairs and routine maintenance on equipment, including cleaning, lubrication, and basic adjustments, and report larger mechanical issues promptly.
• Work outside the cab as needed to support the crew with ground tasks, spotting, and general labor to keep projects moving efficiently.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a safety-first mindset while operating equipment and working on active construction sites.
• Collaborate with supervisors and crew members to understand project requirements, adjust work based on site conditions, and complete tasks on schedule.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of heavy equipment operation experience.
• 23+ years of experience operating excavators, bulldozers (dozers), and front-end loaders.
• Proficiency in grading, including both rough grade and fine grading work.
• Hands-on experience operating heavy equipment used in commercial construction and site development.
• Ability to operate excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, front-end loaders, and vibratory rollers safely and effectively.
• Comfort working outside the cab when required to assist with ground operations and general site tasks.
• Strong understanding of safe heavy equipment operation practices and a safety-first mindset.
• Ability to read and follow project directions related to excavation, grading, and site preparation.
• Reliability and flexibility to support multiple job sites and varying work demands.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Recent civil/commercial construction and site development projects.
• Experience performing daily inspections and basic maintenance on heavy equipment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a grading crew and communicate clearly with team members.
• Strong attention to detail when performing fine grading and site preparation.
• Willingness to work in varying weather conditions and adapt to changing site environments.

Why Work Here?

This employer offers a stable and long-standing work environment with a strong focus on employee retention and safety. The culture is family-oriented, emphasizing support, respect, and a safety-first mindset. Employees receive comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a 401(k) with a 10% match and full vesting after five years. You begin accruing vacation time from your first day as a permanent employee and enjoy seven paid holidays. The organization values long-term careers and provides a supportive environment where you can grow and feel appreciated.

Work Environment

You will typically work 4050 hours per week, with core hours scheduled Monday through Friday from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., depending on weather conditions. Some weekend work may be required based on project needs. The role is field-based across multiple active construction sites, with approximately 15 job sites located throughout the Richmond metro area, and the furthest site about 45 minutes from Chester, VA. You will need to be flexible and willing to travel between sites as assigned. Work takes place outdoors in varying weather and ground conditions, involving regular operation of heavy machinery and periodic work outside the cab to support the crew and site operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $28.00/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 Virginia Beach, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 8, 2026.