Heavy Equipment Operator

About This Role

Join a tunnel project in Manchester, NH as a Heavy Equipment Operator. Start pay $41.00/hr DOE. This is an hourly, nonexempt role working underground and above ground to operate and maintain heavy and tunnel-specific equipment while keeping the jobsite safe and productive. You will run cranes, loaders, backhoes, skid steers, drill rigs, locomotives and TBM/slurry systems, perform daily inspections and basic maintenance, monitor tunnel systems, and respond to emergencies. Expect shift work, possible nights/weekends, and close teamwork with supervisors and engineers to meet project goals.

What You'll Do

• • Operate heavy and specialized underground equipment daily: cranes (CCO), loaders, backhoes, excavators, skid steers, forklifts, drill rigs, locomotive, TBM and slurry/water treatment systems.
• • Perform pre-op and post-op equipment inspections, routine maintenance, minor repairs, and keep accurate service and operation logs.
• • Monitor tunnel systems from control room and in-field (ventilation, lighting, traffic control) and respond to alarms or emergency situations per procedure.
• • Follow grade/stake plans and assist with setting and checking grades for excavation and installation tasks when required.
• • Attend and participate in daily activity plans and safety meetings; enforce PPE and site-specific safety standards and rigging procedures.
• • Communicate clearly with supervisors, engineers, and crew; assist with rigging, signaling, and safe material handling as directed.

What We're Looking For

• • Minimum 3+ years operating heavy equipment; tunnel/underground experience strongly preferred.
• • Proven ability to operate cranes, excavators, loaders, backhoes, skid steers, forklifts and drill rigs safely and efficiently.
• • Knowledge of rigging, hand signals, grade reading and the ability to follow engineering plans.
• • Strong commitment to safety: follow procedures, wear PPE, and actively participate in safety meetings.
• • Physically fit and able to work in confined/underground spaces, lift/carry up to 40 lbs, and work extended shifts including nights/weekends.
• • Mechanical aptitude for daily equipment checks and basic troubleshooting; reliable attendance and clear communication skills.

Qualifications

• • High school diploma or equivalent.
• • Minimum 3 years heavy equipment operation; tunnel/underground experience preferred.
• • NCCCO Crane and NCCCO Rigger certifications preferred.
• • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 (preferred).
• • Forklift, hoist and scissor lift operator certifications (preferred).
• • CPR and First Aid certification recommended.
• • Valid driver’s license and ability to pass drug/alcohol screening.
• • English proficiency for safety communication; additional languages a plus.

What We Offer

• • Starting pay $41.00/hr DOE with overtime opportunities and shift premiums.
• • Paid time off and holiday pay (subject to employer policy).
• • Training and certification support / reimbursement for required credentials.
• • Health, dental and vision plans available (employer-provided options).
• • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match and on-the-job safety training.

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