Job Description

Heavy Equipment Operator – Underground Utilities  

Location: Grand Junction, CO  

Job Type: Full-time, Hourly, On-site  

Starting Pay Range: $30+ per hour, depending on skills and experience  

Native Sun is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to run excavators, loaders, and related equipment on underground utility and heavy civil construction projects in the Grand Junction area. This role is ideal for an experienced, safety‑conscious operator who takes pride in quality trenching, backfill, and site work on water, sewer, and storm utilities.  

Key Responsibilities  

• Safely operate heavy equipment (excavators, backhoes/track hoes, loaders, etc.) for trenching, grading, and installation of underground utilities.
• Work with utility crews to dig trenches to line and grade, set bedding, and backfill around pipes without damaging existing utilities.
• Read and follow site plans, stakes, grades, and instructions from foremen and supervisors to complete work efficiently.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance; report mechanical or safety issues promptly.
• Follow all company and OSHA safety protocols; maintain awareness of people, utilities, and equipment on the job site.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area and support the crew as needed to get the job done.

Requirements  

• 2+ years of heavy equipment operating experience in underground utilities, earthwork, or heavy civil construction.
• Strong knowledge of construction safety practices and safe digging around existing utilities
• Experience operating multiple types of heavy machinery such as excavators, loaders, and backhoes.
• CDL and OSHA certifications preferred. 
• Reliable transportation to Grand Junction–area job sites and willingness to work overtime as needed.

If you are a safe, reliable heavy equipment operator who takes pride in clean trench work, careful digging around utilities, and helping your crew deliver quality work every day, we want to hear from you.  

Native Sun is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We welcome applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.  

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