Heavy Equipment Operator in Forest Park, Georgia at Cleveland Carter Enterprises, Inc

Position Summary:
Cleveland Carter Enterprises, Inc. (CCE)—a leading underground utilities construction company specializing in 24/7 emergency sewer and water repair—is seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in Forest Park, GA.
The ideal candidate will have experience operating a variety of heavy construction equipment in underground utility installations and excavations ranging from 8 to 24 feet deep. This position requires a strong commitment to safety, precision, productivity, and teamwork while working in challenging construction environments.

Essential Responsibilities:

* Safely operate heavy construction equipment including excavators, bulldozers, compactors, articulated trucks, front-end loaders, skid steers (Bobcats), and motor graders.

* Perform excavation work for underground sewer, water, and storm utility installations while maintaining proper trench safety procedures.

* Set and work around trench boxes, shoring systems, and other excavation protection equipment.

* Read grade stakes, follow grading plans, and perform medium to fine grading operations.

* Complete daily pre-operation equipment inspections and report any mechanical deficiencies immediately.

* Ensure all equipment is properly fueled, lubricated, and maintained before and during operation.

* Grease equipment fittings before leaving the yard and throughout the workday as necessary.

* Keep equipment clean, including windshields, mirrors, and operator compartments, to maintain safe visibility.

* Operate equipment safely around underground utilities, structures, traffic, pedestrians, and fellow employees.

* Follow all OSHA, company, and project-specific safety regulations.

* Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

* Assist with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required.

* Work efficiently to meet project schedules while maintaining quality workmanship.

* Perform other duties as assigned to support operational goals.

Behavioral/Performance Expectations:
*Safety-Focused: Consistently follows all OSHA, excavation safety, and company safety standards.

* Reliable & Punctual: Reports to work on time and prepared for each shift.

* Team-Oriented: Works collaboratively with supervisors, pipelayers, laborers, and other crew members.

* Professional: Demonstrates respect for coworkers, customers, and the public.

* Accountable: Takes ownership of assigned equipment, job responsibilities, and workmanship.

* Adaptable: Willingly adjusts to changing job site conditions, schedules, and project needs.

Qualifications:

* Minimum age of 21 years.

* High school diploma or GED.

* Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

* Minimum of three (3) years of heavy equipment operating experience in underground utility or civil construction.

* Demonstrated experience operating excavators, loaders, dozers, compactors, and related heavy equipment.

* Knowledge of trench safety systems, excavation practices, and utility construction methods.

* Ability to read grade stakes and understand site plans preferred.

Skills:

* Basic math, reading, and written communication skills.

* Ability to safely operate heavy equipment for extended periods, including shifts up to 12 hours.

* Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, wind, and cold.

* Ability to work safely around dust, vibration, loud noise, confined work areas, and moving equipment.

* Ability to lift up to 75 pounds (team lift required for heavier materials).

* Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

* Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

* Must possess a smartphone and be comfortable using company technology and communication platforms.

* Must be available to work nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays as project needs require.