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Heavy Equipment Operator I (Solar/Elec Division)

For over twenty years, Cinterra has provided specialized electrical utility and solar construction services to support some of the nation's leading contractors, private industry and public utilities. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is only rivalled by one of the highest safety ratings in the industry. The services we provide help to bring electric power and renewable energy sources to millions. Come join our team today!

Position Summary:

The Heavy Equipment Operator I is responsible for operating construction equipment, such as bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, and other machinery, to assist with Utility Scale solar installation activities. The role emphasizes safety, requiring strict adherence to all safety procedures while operating equipment. The operator ensures that company equipment, materials, and work sites are maintained, kept clean, and stored safely.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Safety First: Uphold safety as a core value, supporting the corporate safety program and ensuring personal safety at all times.
• Basic Equipment Operation: Perform tasks related to grading, excavation, backfilling, and other solar-related operations, including the operation of dozers, backhoes, track hoes, loaders, and other basic equipment under supervision.
• Utility Spotting: Assist in spotting (potholing) existing utilities, cables, culverts, or other installations to avoid damage.
• Safe Maneuvering: Operate equipment around installed solar components, including panels, piles, and pads, while maintaining safe clearances.
• Site Maintenance: Contribute to maintaining and managing spoil piles according to OSHA standards and site-specific requirements.
• Effective Communication: Communicate clearly with spotters and other team members to ensure safe operations.
• Tool Usage: Use basic tools such as shovels, rakes, lutes, brooms, picks, hammers, saws, pneumatic hammers, drills, and tamps as needed.
• Equipment Reporting: Report any equipment that requires repair to the foreman promptly.
• Basic Heavy Equipment Operation: Operate heavy equipment in compliance with company safety policies and procedures under guidance.
• Material Management: Assist in receiving, storing, and protecting project materials and equipment, including owner-furnished items; report any shortages or damage immediately.
• Coordinated Movement: Develop skills to coordinate hand and foot movements to guide machinery in and out of tight locations safely.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with the foreman and other team members to support the successful completion of all installations from start to finish.
• Site Coordination: Learn to coordinate actions with those of other workers on busy solar sites, ensuring smooth operations.
• Daily Reporting: Assist the foreman with maintaining accurate daily reports and documentation.
• Problem-Solving: Work with the foreman to resolve problems that may arise due to inclement weather, emergencies, or other delays.
• Equipment Checks: Ensure equipment check sheets are accurate and properly maintained.
• Cross-Department Support: Provide assistance to other divisions as needed, demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow in the role.
• Professionalism: Exhibit a professional demeanor and encourage professionalism among all project personnel.
• Special Assignments: Handle special assignments and other duties as requested by leadership, with a focus on developing skills and gaining experience.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities):

• Education: High School diploma or GED required.
• Experience: 0-2 years of experience in operating heavy equipment or similar machinery.
• Safety Knowledge: Familiarity with OSHA regulations (preferred); willingness to undergo OSHA training and certifications.
• Licensing: Must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Work Hours: Willingness to work long and/or extended hours, including weekends, as needed; ability to travel to various job sites.
• Basic Equipment Knowledge: A developing working knowledge of equipment being used, with a focus on learning and improving.
• Coordination: Ability to develop the coordinated movement of hands and feet to guide machinery effectively.
• Teamwork: Collaborative work style with a strong commitment to learning and completing assigned tasks.
• Adaptability: Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment, with a focus on learning and skill development.

Cinterra provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or loc