Heavy Equipment Operator

About This Role


Join a local construction crew running excavators, dozers, loaders and compactors on site-prep, grading and utility jobs around Chesapeake, VA. Pay range is $28-36/hr depending on experience, plus overtime when work runs long. You'll work on residential and commercial sites, follow crew leads and keep machines maintained and on schedule. This is hands-on work: early starts, physical labor, and the chance to run a variety of machines every day. Reliable attendance and a safety-first attitude are required.


What You'll Do

• Operate excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, skid steers and compactors for site prep, grading and trenching
• Set grade and slope using stakes, laser levels or GPS; follow plans and foreman directions
• Perform daily machine inspections, basic maintenance and clean equipment at end of shift
• Load/unload materials, assist with rigging and traffic control on site as needed
• Communicate with crew and foreman about progress, hazards and equipment issues
• Work overtime or weekends when project schedules require

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years operating heavy equipment on construction sites (site prep, grading, utilities preferred)
• Comfortable reading grade stakes, basic plans and using laser/GPS grade controls
• Able to perform basic preventive maintenance and report mechanical problems
• Reliable transportation to job sites in Chesapeake and surrounding areas; punctual attendance
• Physically fit for climbing on equipment, lifting up to 50 lbs and working outdoors in all weather
• Pass pre-employment drug screen and background check

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• OSHA 10-hour construction safety card (or willingness to obtain)
• NCCER or vendor/operator certification a plus
• CDL Class B preferred but not required (will consider for drivers)
• English sufficient to understand safety directions and basic site communication

What We Offer

• Competitive pay: $28-36/hr DOE, overtime at 1.5x
• Health, dental and vision coverage (eligibility after short waiting period)
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid holidays and vacation accrual
• Boot/tool allowance and PPE provided
• Opportunities for paid training and certification upgrades

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