Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Title - Heavy Equipment Operator

Department Name - Research Farms

Work Location - Lexington, KY

Grade Level - 40

Salary Range - $15.61-24.99/hour

Type of Position - Staff

Position Time Status - Full-Time

Required Education - HS

Required Related Experience - 2 yrs

Required 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 Do

• Operate heavy equipment, heavy trucks, and agricultural machinery in support of research, farm, and facility projects
• Assist with roadway installation, site development, demolition, land clearing, drainage improvements, and related infrastructure work
• Respond to work orders and support operational needs across the North Farm and associated facilities
• Perform routine equipment inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs
• Maintain records related to equipment, work orders, time reporting, and licensing requirements
• Ensure work is completed in accordance with safety standards, regulations, and established procedures
• Maintain equipment, tools, supplies, and consumables needed for daily operations
• Support project completion through effective communication, planning, and teamwork

What You'll Bring

• Experience operating heavy equipment, commercial vehicles, or agricultural machinery
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine maintenance and minor repairs
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and quality workmanship
• Ability to prioritize work, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing needs
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2 years of related experience
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or ability to obtain a CDL within 90 days of employment

What's In It for You

• Meaningful impact: Support research, teaching, and agricultural operations that benefit Kentucky and beyond
• Hands-on work: Operate a variety of heavy equipment and contribute to important farm infrastructure projects
• Professional growth: Build skills in equipment operation, maintenance, and agricultural facility management
• Stable schedule: Full-time position with minimal overtime requirements
• Team environment: Work alongside dedicated professionals in a collaborative farm operations setting

UK's Exceptional Benefits

Why 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.