Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description

The Heavy Equipment Operator safely and efficiently operates a variety of heavy construction equipment to support excavation, grading, trenching, lifting, and general site preparation activities. This role combines skilled equipment operation with basic equipment maintenance and occasional general labor tasks to help ensure projects are completed accurately, on schedule, and in compliance with safety and project specifications.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, backhoes, loaders, graders, rollers, skid steers, forklifts, and dump trucks in a safe and efficient manner.

• Perform excavation, grading, trenching, lifting, and site preparation activities according to project plans, grades, and specifications.

• Read and interpret blueprints, grade stakes, and site layouts to execute work accurately and to required tolerances.

• Inspect equipment before and after use to ensure safe operation and identify any maintenance or repair needs.

• Perform basic equipment maintenance tasks, including lubrication, fueling, and cleaning, to keep machines in good working condition.

• Report equipment issues promptly and follow established procedures for maintenance and repairs.

• Assist with general labor tasks on job sites as needed, such as shoveling, trenching, and excavating by hand.

• Maintain a strong focus on safety at all times, following safe operating procedures and site-specific safety guidelines.

• Communicate effectively with supervisors and crew members to coordinate work and support efficient project completion.

• Work productively in outdoor construction environments, adapting to varying weather conditions and changing job site needs.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in operating multiple types of heavy equipment, including excavators, dozers, backhoes, loaders, graders, rollers, skid steers, forklifts, and dump trucks.

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience operating heavy equipment in construction or related industries (experience level may vary by project).

• Strong hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness for precise and controlled equipment operation.

• Knowledge of equipment capabilities, limitations, and safe operating procedures.

• Ability to read and interpret plans, grades, and project specifications accurately.

• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness in all aspects of equipment operation and site work.

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods.

• Physical stamina to sit, stand, climb, and lift as required in a heavy construction environment.

• Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with site personnel and supervisors.

• Dependable, punctual, and consistently safety-focused work habits.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working on a variety of construction and job site environments.

• Ability to adapt to different types of equipment and changing project requirements.

• Willingness to assist with general labor tasks in addition to equipment operation.

• Comfort working around noise, dust, vibration, and heavy machinery.

• Capability to travel or work extended hours, including weekends, when project needs require.

Why Work Here?

You join a team that values safety, reliability, and professional craftsmanship on every project. The work offers variety across different job sites and equipment types, providing opportunities to build skills and take on new challenges. You can take pride in contributing to visible, tangible projects while working with colleagues who respect clear communication, teamwork, and strong work ethics.

Work Environment

This role is based in outdoor construction and job site environments, with daily exposure to noise, dust, vibration, and heavy machinery. Work may involve extended hours, weekends, or travel depending on project needs and schedules. You will spend significant time operating equipment from cabs and platforms, as well as moving around uneven terrain and active work areas. The environment is fast-paced and safety-driven, requiring appropriate protective gear and adherence to site safety protocols at all times.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Downey, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $35.00/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 Downey,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 4, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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.