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Heavy Construction Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Buried Operator

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Job Summary As the Underground Construction Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for ... Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support underground utility ...

Buried Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Job Summary As the Underground Construction Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for ... Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support underground utility ...

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Heavy Construction Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do heavy construction operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy construction operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy construction operator?

Heavy construction operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and equipment used in construction projects, such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders. Their work is essential for tasks like earthmoving, road building, and the installation of infrastructure. These operators must be trained to handle complex machinery safely and efficiently, often working on site preparation, demolition, or material transport. They play a crucial role in ensuring construction projects are completed on time and to specification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy construction operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Construction Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, understanding construction blueprints, and adherence to safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized equipment certifications. Familiarity with machines such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as knowledge of GPS and grading systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality completion of construction projects while minimizing risks and delays.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy construction operators on large job sites?

Heavy Construction Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight deadlines, and coordinating with multiple teams on-site. Operating heavy machinery safely while maintaining productivity can be demanding, especially when unexpected obstacles like equipment malfunctions or ground instability arise. Successful operators rely on strong communication skills and adaptability to collaborate efficiently with site supervisors, engineers, and fellow crew members. Proactive problem-solving and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for managing these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Heavy Construction Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Construction OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor heavy projectsConstruction sites, outdoor heavy projects
Job RoleOperate heavy machinery for large-scale constructionOperate various construction equipment, may include smaller machinery

Heavy Construction Operators and Equipment Operators often share similar certifications and work environments. However, Heavy Construction Operators typically focus on large-scale, heavy machinery used in major construction projects, while Equipment Operators may work with a broader range of equipment, including smaller machines. Both roles are essential in construction, but Heavy Construction Operators usually handle more specialized, large equipment for infrastructure projects.

What cities are hiring for Heavy Construction Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Heavy Construction Operator job openings:

What states have the most Heavy Construction Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Heavy Construction Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Construction Operator jobs?

For Heavy Construction Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Heavy Construction Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Buried Operator

Columbus, OH • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support underground utility installation and excavation activities.

  • Review blueprints, specifications, and work orders to determine project requirements.

  • Excavate, place, and remove soil and debris while safely working around existing underground utilities.


Job description

Reports To: Construction Manager
Travel Potential: 25–50%
Compensation: $22.00 - $25.00 Hourly

Company Profile

Congruex provides digital infrastructure solutions through engineering and construction services that connect communities nationwide. This includes wireline, wireless, data centers, and utility services from initial concept to market go-live.

With employees across the United States and India, the work we do enables essential infrastructure for the future of communications.

Build a Career. Build What Matters.

Job Summary

As the Underground Construction Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for operating heavy construction equipment to support underground telecommunications and utility construction projects. You will safely excavate around existing utilities, install underground infrastructure, and support field crews while ensuring work is completed efficiently and in compliance with safety standards. As the Underground Construction Operator, your customers are Congruex project teams, utility providers, and broadband operators, and you will make meaningful contributions to the company's success through safe equipment operation, quality workmanship, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities (Including, but not limited to)

  • Operate heavy construction equipment safely and efficiently to support underground utility installation and excavation activities.
  • Review blueprints, specifications, and work orders to determine project requirements.
  • Excavate, place, and remove soil and debris while safely working around existing underground utilities.
  • Operate equipment to guide and install underground cable and conduit.
  • Inspect, clean, and perform routine maintenance on assigned vehicles and equipment.
  • Represent Congruex professionally while interacting with customers, contractors, and the public.
  • Perform work in both standard and high-risk construction environments while following company safety procedures.
  • Perform physically demanding construction activities year-round in varying weather conditions.
  • Travel overnight to project sites as required.
  • Additional responsibilities within functional scope based on business needs.

Required Qualifications

Education, Licensing, and Certifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Valid, unrestricted driver's license required.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review.

Experience

  • Minimum 1 year of recent experience operating heavy construction equipment.
  • Experience safely excavating around existing underground utilities.
  • General knowledge of underground utility construction practices and equipment.

Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to safely operate heavy construction equipment in varying jobsite conditions.
  • Knowledge of underground utility depth, placement, and safe excavation practices.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with crew members, leadership, customers, and clients.
  • Ability to function effectively as part of a team.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry between 50 and 150 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL), or willingness to obtain one.
  • OSHA Certification.

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able and willing to work outdoors, subject to varying weather conditions.
  • Must be able to safely work around heavy equipment and active construction sites.
  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, squat, push, pull, and perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 150 pounds.
  • Must be able to travel overnight to project sites as required.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review.

Congruex Culture & Benefits

Congruex's culture of safety and performance is built on the 4X Factor core values of Be Safe, Be Accountable, Be Respectful, and Earn Trust. These values guide how we work with one another and how we interact with our customers.

We are committed to building a workplace where employees feel supported and recognized. We invest in employees through a comprehensive approach, including the benefits below with eligibility on Day 1 of employment:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision benefits with 70% paid by the company
  • 401(k) with company match up to 4% and immediate vesting
  • Flexible PTO for exempt roles & competitive PTO accrual for non-exempt roles
  • 10 company paid holidays (9 standard and 1 floating)
  • Company Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage
  • Company Paid Maternity & Parental Leave options
  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance (with employee paid voluntary options)
  • Annual Safety Boot Program of up to $150 per eligible field employee per year
  • Safety Points Program for eligible field employees redeemable in the company store
  • Free wellness benefits like counseling, financial planning, and more

Additional Employment Information

We will determine salary based on skills and experience in relation to the function of the role, as well as equity to employees in similar roles. Some benefits have eligibility criteria. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will" employment relationship. Conditions to hiring may include but are not necessarily limited to background checks, drug testing, and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) reviews.