Meridian Engineering Company is hiring: Heavy Equipment Operator (Tucson & Santa

Experienced in Earthwork and Civil Construction Projects
Locations: Tucson, AZ and Santa Fe, NM
Pay: $21.00–$31.00/hour | Based on Experience
Type: Full-time | Hourly | Field-Based
Benefits: 401(k) match, health/dental/vision, life insurance, HSA, PTO, referral program, EAP, paid holidays

About the Opportunity:

Meridian Contracting is a trusted contractor delivering critical infrastructure across Arizona and New Mexico. With expertise in earthwork, flood control, road building, and mining-related civil work, we’re expanding our team of skilled operators to support growing project needs in Tucson and Santa Fe. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you’ll be a key player on site—safely and efficiently running equipment that drives project progress.

Successful Team Members in This Role Will…

• Safely operate a range of heavy equipment including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, and backhoes
• Prepare construction sites by clearing, grading, trenching, and backfilling to spec
• Perform daily pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on assigned machines
• Monitor equipment performance and promptly report any mechanical issues
• Load, unload, and transport materials using appropriate attachments and techniques
• Follow project plans and layout markings accurately
• Work in coordination with foremen, laborers, and engineers to meet job site goals
• Maintain a clean and organized work area that aligns with site safety standards

️ A Day in the Life of a Heavy Equipment Operator:

• Begin with a safety meeting and pre-shift inspection of assigned equipment
• Review project plans or layout instructions from the site supervisor
• Execute trenching, grading, or excavation activities for roadwork or infrastructure
• Coordinate with ground crews to safely load or place materials
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues or coordinate service needs with the maintenance team
• Wrap up with documentation of equipment use and daily progress reporting

Measurements of Success:

• Consistent safe operation with no incidents or jobsite safety violations
• Daily production goals met or exceeded through efficient equipment use
• Accurate execution of site grading, trenching, or hauling tasks
• Equipment well-maintained and downtime minimized
• Strong collaboration with crew and foreman on site
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proficiency operating at least 2–3 types of heavy civil equipment (e.g., dozer, loader, excavator, grader)
• Strong knowledge of safe work practices and construction site protocols
• Ability to perform minor maintenance and safety inspections
• Experience reading and interpreting construction drawings or grade stakes
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Physically able to work outdoors in changing weather and terrain conditions
• Preferred: Heavy Equipment Operator certification or NCCCO

Monday – Friday: 7 AM – 5 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Arizona

• 3855 North Business Ctr Dr
  Tucson, AZ 85705
• 1615 1/2 University Blvd. NE Suite A
  Albuquerque, NM 87102