Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator

About the role

Casella Construction is seeking a safety-oriented and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. This position performs highly complex and difficult construction and maintenance activities by operating a variety of heavy equipment. You will have the opportunity to work on unique construction projects from start to finish, contributing to hands-on learning and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Maintains a safe work environment.
• Directs and leads work of other laborers and equipment operators as necessary.
• Executes all job duties of Operator 1 without supervision.
• Safely operates construction, excavation, hauling, and maintenance equipment including loaders, bulldozers, and excavators to complete job tasks.
• Uses GPS for tasks as trained.
• Practices safety by estimating weights and distances and maintaining full awareness of surroundings.
• Conducts daily pre- and post-equipment inspections.
• Monitors gauges and other indicators to ensure safe operation of equipment.
• Maintains records of time worked and materials used.
• Completes daily paperwork.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Participates in training requirements, both in-person and online, as needed or required.

Winter Maintenance Responsibilities

• Plows snow during winter months across various locations in Vermont and New Hampshire.
• Operates snow removal equipment such as snowplows, salt spreaders, and snow blowers.
• Handles both light and heavy-duty vehicles equipped for snow removal, ensuring safe and clear passage on roads and pathways.
• Works in cold weather conditions and performs physical labor as needed.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older.
• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• Vocational training preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• 3+ years of experience as a heavy equipment operator (Bulldozer, Loader, Excavator).
• Understanding of safety rules and regulations.
• Experience with construction jobsite layouts and grading.
• Experience in reading and understanding project plans.
• Must be able to work some weekends and/or nights when needed.
• Must be able to travel out of town for a day or a week.
• Ability to participate in regulatory trainings (First Aid/CPR, OSHA 10, Flagging, Spotter).

Skills & Attributes

• Ability to listen, understand, and follow directions.
• Flexibility to adapt as assignments change.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and supervisors.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Positive attitude and desire to learn.
• Sound knowledge of construction and practical experience with tools and equipment.
• Organized with a systematic approach to achieve accuracy and efficiency.
• Strong hand, eye, and foot coordination.
• Attention to detail.
• Familiarity with safety protocols.
• Proficiency in math and reading.

Physical Requirements

• Must have physical strength, balance, hand-eye coordination, and stamina necessary to complete jobs in various areas.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and climb inclines for the duration of the shift.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds occasionally with assistance.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Pay

Hourly hiring range: $24.00/hr. - $30.00/hr. This range reflects the base pay we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting, considering current market conditions and industry benchmarks. Final and individual compensation packages are based on various factors unique to each candidate, including skill set, experience, qualifications, and other job-related reasons.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurances.
• Voluntary Short- & Long-Term Disability.
• Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness Insurance.
• Company Paid Life Insurance.
• Company Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off.
• EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Program with up to 4% company match and immediate vesting.

About Us

Joseph Casella and John Casella II are the second generation of the Casella family, carrying on a legacy built on hard work, grit, determination, and innovation. Casella Construction has evolved into an industry-leading company specializing in heavy highway construction, demolition, utility installation, environmental contracting, commercial site development, land management, aggregate, transportation, and fleet maintenance. Our success is driven by our employees’ passion for the industry, our leadership’s commitment to technology and environmental stewardship, and our collective ability to thrive in dynamic situations.