Heavy Equipment Operator

About This Role

We’re hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for road and right-of-way maintenance in Pacific Junction, IA. This per diem position runs on-site operating dozers, excavators, loaders and other large equipment to load, haul, grade, trench and assist with pipe and culvert installation. Expect outdoor work on rough terrain and straightforward, hands-on tasks. This role suits seasoned operators who know machine inspection and basic field maintenance, can follow site safety rules, and can train less-experienced crew members. Per diem pay is offered — provide your availability and equipment experience when applying.

What You'll Do

• • Operate dozers, excavators, loaders and other heavy equipment for grading, loading, hauling and site prep
• • Perform road maintenance: spread rock/gravel, smooth and grade surfaces, and clear shoulders
• • Trench and construct ditches for culverts and install water and sewer pipe; remove silt and debris
• • Load, haul and dump materials on varied terrain, including rough and uneven surfaces
• • Inspect equipment daily: check fluid levels, lubrication points and basic systems; perform routine preventative maintenance
• • Train and mentor other operators and crew on safe equipment operation and effective job techniques

What We're Looking For

• • Minimum 3+ years operating dozers, excavators and loaders on road or right-of-way projects
• • Proven ability to grade roads, backfill trenches and handle material loading/hauling
• • Comfort working on uneven terrain and in all weather conditions
• • Knowledge of routine equipment inspection and basic field maintenance (fluids, filters, greasing)
• • Ability to read basic site instructions, use hand tools and follow safety procedures
• • Reliable transportation to site and willingness to work variable hours; per diem position

Qualifications

• • Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred if available
• • Equipment operator certifications a plus (e.g., NCCER, operator school certificates)
• • OSHA 10-hour or equivalent safety training preferred
• • Ability to pass drug/alcohol screening and background check
• • English required; Spanish helpful

What We Offer

• • Per diem pay (paid daily) — confirm rate at application
• • Hands-on work with clear daily duties and steady project-based shifts
• • Opportunities to train and lead less-experienced crew members
• • Work outdoors on regional projects; travel and lodging support where applicable
• • Simple assignment reporting and direct communication on site

Not Another Job Board

Skillit connects craft workers directly with contractors hiring for your trade. No resumes, no chasing listings. Build your profile once and let jobs find you.

• Get discovered automatically: Contractors search for talent like you every day.
• No more chasing listings: Skillit surfaces your profile when a job matches your skills and certs.
• Sam does the legwork: Your craft hiring assistant works 24/7 to connect you with active hiring contractors.