Heavy Equipment Operator

Operator (Earthwork)

Job Description
The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a vital role in construction operations by operating a variety of heavy machinery used for excavation, grading, material handling, site preparation, and paving activities. This position may operate equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, offroad haul trucks, compactors, motor graders, tractors, and front-end loaders to move earth, support structure installation, and assist in the placement of concrete or other hard-surface materials. In addition to equipment operation, the role may include performing routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs to help ensure equipment remains safe, reliable, and productive on the job site.
A Day at Engel

• Safely operate a variety of heavy construction equipment, including GPS dozers, graders, loaders, excavators, and other machinery used in site development, earthmoving, and highway construction projects.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, regulatory requirements, and OSHA standards, proactively reporting potential hazards, incidents, or concerns to project leadership.
• Conduct pre- and post-operation equipment inspections and perform routine preventive maintenance to maintain optimal performance and reduce downtime.
• Assist in verifying the location and exposure of underground and overhead utilities before excavation activities begin to promote safe project execution.
• Collaborate with project leadership to review trenching and excavation requirements and help ensure all necessary protective systems and safety measures are in place.
• Contribute to a productive, team-oriented work environment while supporting project goals, quality standards, and operational excellence.
• Assist in reviewing trenching requirements with project leadership
• Perform additional assignments and responsibilities as needed to support project success and organizational objectives.

What We Are Looking For

• Highschool diploma or equivalent.
• Two to five years of relevant construction experience.
• Ability to work with equipment, materials, and supplies. Ability to abide by proper safety guideline at all times.
• OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR, and demonstrated knowledge of applicable safety precautions and procedures.
• Demonstrate a strong willingness and capability to perform physically demanding work in a construction environment.
• Follow, interpret, and convey written and verbal instructions accurately to support safe and efficient job site operations.
• Apply basic mathematical concepts, including fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions, to perform construction-related calculations and tasks.
• Maintain dependable attendance and consistently meet scheduling requirements to support project timelines and operational needs.
• Exhibit reliability, accountability, and a strong work ethic in meeting job responsibilities and management expectations.

Work Requirements

• Employment is contingent upon passing a pre-employment drug screening.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• Valid Drivers License (CDL is a plus).
• Union affiliation/willingness to join.
• 8-12 Hour shifts, occasional weekends as needed.
• Willingness to travel.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in a construction environment, including lifting, carrying, pushing, and moving materials weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Work effectively in a variety of outdoor and field conditions, including environments that may be physically demanding or subject to changing weather conditions, as well as working near loud noises associated with construction sites.
• Frequently sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, stretch, speak, and hear while performing daily job responsibilities.
• Occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or work in positions requiring flexibility and mobility to complete assigned tasks safely and efficiently.
• Maintain the physical stamina, strength, and endurance necessary to perform essential job functions throughout the workday.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Union Affiliation

 

• Union positions are subject to applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements and prevailing wage regulations. Hourly pay rates and benefits may vary based on job classification, project location, and governing labor requirements.

Who Are We?

Engel Excavating is a sitework contractor servicing commercial, industrial, and municipal projects across the Midwest. We blend field-proven experience with modern technology to turn complex sitework into solid foundations. Engel was founded on the fundamental belief that when building the infrastructure that supports the lives of our friends, families, and communities, it is not just our responsibility, but our obligation to build better. We’ve learned firsthand that this standard of doing business is easier said than done. But we know that when we build the right way, we create a better, brighter future for all.

Built True. Build Blue.

Our Core Values
Engel exists to build a better, brighter future for our communities — and that starts with our people. When you join Engel, you’ll work alongside crews who are committed to building with integrity, always.

• Uphold The Standard The “Blue Standard” isn’t just a slogan, it’s our reputation. We answer the call, show up prepared, and build with integrity.
• Attitude Is Everything We bring the energy that makes great work possible — steady, positive, and professional.
• Bend, Don’t Break Unforeseen challenges are a guarantee in construction. We bring solutions and tackle them head-on.
• Pay It Forward We think of others first, leave jobsites better than we found them, and go the extra mile to help our team and clients.

Engel Excavating is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.