Heavy Equipment Operator Job at Institute for Building Technology and Safety in

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: St. George, LA. Under the direction of the Public Works Director (or designee), the Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of various heavy equipment used in the construction, maintenance, and repair of public infrastructure. Work may include grading, ditching, trenching, excavation, point repairs, roadside and off‑road digging, debris removal, and material transport to support streets, storm drainage systems, utilities, and other municipal projects. The operator may also assist and lead crews in field activities, ensuring that work is performed safely, effectively, and in compliance with city, state, and federal standards. This position may require overtime, weekend work, and emergency response during severe weather or infrastructure failures. Responsibilities Responsibilities/Duties of this position: Operate heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, skid steers, bulldozers, front‑end loaders, graders, rollers, and dump trucks for construction, maintenance, and repair activities. Perform ditch excavation (off‑road and roadside), point repairs, grading, trenching, backfilling, hauling, and related tasks. Load, transport, and place materials including soil, rock, gravel, asphalt, and debris. Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, and work orders to ensure proper project execution. Assist with manual labor tasks when not operating equipment, including pipe installation, drainage work, concrete/asphalt repair, and job site cleanup. Lead or assist with crew assignments, providing direction, oversight, and training as needed. Inspect, maintain, and make minor repairs to assigned equipment to ensure safe operation. Monitor and enforce compliance with safety procedures, traffic control requirements, and environmental regulations. Complete daily reports, equipment logs, and project documentation. Coordinate with other Public Works units, contractors, and departments to complete work efficiently. Respond to public inquiries in a professional manner, helping resolve complaints or concerns. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or GED is required. Post‑secondary coursework or vocational training in construction, equipment operation, or mechanics is preferred but not required. 2 years of experience in the operation of heavy construction equipment (e.g., backhoes, loaders, bulldozers, excavators, graders) is required. Valid driver's license required; CDL Class B preferred. Key Skills & Competencies Operation, safety practices, and maintenance of heavy equipment used in construction and repair. Street, storm drain, and utility repair methods, including ditching, grading, and excavation. Job site safety, traffic control procedures, and OSHA standards. Basic project planning, scheduling, and cost estimating. Applicable laws, codes, and regulations related to public works. Abilities Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment in varied field conditions. Perform both skilled equipment operation and physical labor tasks. Estimate time, equipment, and materials needed for assigned projects. Troubleshoot problems and recommend effective solutions. Work independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision. Maintain accurate records and communicate clearly, both orally and in writing. Provide leadership, training, and oversight to field crews. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and the public. Skills Efficient and safe operation of excavators, backhoes, loaders, skid steers, bulldozers, and other construction equipment. Routine equipment inspection, servicing, and minor maintenance. Reading and interpreting plans, maps, and work instructions. Using computers and basic software applications for reporting. Personal Qualities Strong Work Ethic Teachable/Continuous Learner Reliable/Dependable Collaborative/Team Contributor Physical Demands Must be available for standby assignments and emergency response. Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions with exposure to traffic, noise, dust, uneven terrain, and potentially hazardous conditions. Requires the ability to lift heavy objects, perform manual labor, and operate equipment for extended periods. Company Overview Bring your passion, expertise, and experience to IBTS, where we appreciate and are committed to our employees. We offer outstanding benefits, growth opportunities, and work hard to maintain a culture that values our employees. The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a 501(c)(3) non‑profit organization established to provide unbiased professional building code compliance services, while enhancing the communities in which we work. At IBTS, our mission is to deliver quality services to meet the challenges of governance at all levels while enhancing public safety, economic development, and the general welfare of the community. Our services include Building and Community Development, Energy and Sustainability Services, Disaster Planning and Recovery, Quality Assurance, as well as Compliance and Risk Monitoring. IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, VA, with additional offices in Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC. We are committed to building a community of experts with diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives who are passionate about our mission. IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer that is committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr