
Heavy Equipment Operator
Job Description
Heavy Equipment Operator
Company: Tribal One Construction
Project Location: Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB), South Dakota
Pay Range: $25–$35 per hour (based on experience)
Job Type: Full-Time (Project-Based)
Position Summary
Tribal One Construction is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team for a construction project at Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB). This role requires operating a variety of heavy machinery to support site preparation, excavation, grading, and construction activities.
This position may require night shift work depending on project needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, compactors, and front-end loaders
- Perform site grading, trenching, backfilling, and material handling
- Follow project plans, blueprints, and verbal instructions from supervisors
- Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
- Ensure safe work practices and compliance with OSHA and project safety requirements
- Work collaboratively with site crews, supervisors, and other trades
- Maintain awareness of surroundings and ensure protection of personnel, structures, and utilities
- Adapt to changing project schedules, including possible night shifts
Minimum Qualifications
- Proven experience operating heavy equipment in a construction environment
- Ability to read and understand construction plans and grade stakes
- Strong understanding of job site safety requirements
- Ability to work in a team-oriented environment
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
- Willingness to work flexible schedules, including night shifts
Requirements (Mandatory)
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test
- Must pass a background check (required for access to Ellsworth AFB)
- Valid driver's license (CDL preferred but not required)
- Ability to comply with all base access and security requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience operating a front-end loader
- Experience working on federal or military construction projects
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification
- Equipment-specific certifications or training
- Experience with GPS or grade control systems
Work Environment
- Outdoor construction site with exposure to varying weather conditions
- Work may involve physical labor, extended periods of sitting or standing, and operation of heavy machinery
- Noise levels may be high; appropriate PPE will be required
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