R. Hurst Excavation Inc. is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator. This position is responsible for safely operating excavators, dozers, loaders, skid steers, graders, and other heavy equipment on excavation, grading, utility, roadwork, and site development projects.

We are looking for someone who takes pride in clean, accurate work, communicates well with the crew, understands production, and treats equipment with respect. The ideal candidate has strong seat time, understands grade, works safely, and is willing to help the team wherever needed.

Responsibilities

Safely operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, backhoes, graders, skid steers, and related machinery.
Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfill, loading, lifting, material handling, and site preparation.
Read and understand plans, grade stakes, cut/fill information, and site layout.
Use grade lasers, grade rods, and other layout tools to help meet project elevations and specifications.
Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
Report mechanical issues, defects, safety concerns, or maintenance needs.
Grease, clean, and care for assigned equipment.
Keep equipment cabs clean and organized.
Communicate clearly with foremen, laborers, spotters, truck drivers, and other operators.
Follow OSHA standards, company safety policies, PPE requirements, and site-specific safety plans.
Maintain awareness of underground utilities, overhead hazards, trenches, slopes, soft ground, traffic, pedestrians, and changing site conditions.
Work efficiently to meet production goals while maintaining safety and quality.
Assist with general labor, traffic control, cleanup, or other field duties when equipment operation is not required.
Work outdoors in varying weather and jobsite conditions.
Be available for overtime, weekends, or adjusted schedules when required by the project.

Qualifications

Minimum 2–5 years of verifiable heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
Experience operating excavators, dozers, loaders, graders, backhoes, skid steers, or similar equipment.
Experience with excavation, grading, trenching, backfill, utility work, roadwork, or site development preferred.
Ability to read grade stakes, plans, and civil site layouts.
Basic understanding of grade, slope, elevations, and jobsite layout.
Mechanical awareness and ability to perform daily inspections and basic maintenance.
Valid driver’s license required.
CDL Class A or B preferred, but not required.
OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 preferred.
First Aid/CPR certification is a plus.
GPS or machine-control experience, including Trimble, Topcon, or Leica, is a plus.

Desired Skills and Traits

Safety-first mindset.
Strong communication skills.
Reliable and punctual.
Good teamwork with ground crew and spotters.
Strong attention to detail.
Takes pride in clean, accurate work.
Production-focused without cutting corners.
Calm under pressure.
Respectful toward coworkers, supervisors, flaggers, inspectors, and clients.
Willing to help with labor or field duties when needed.
Takes ownership of equipment condition and job quality.
Open to feedback and continued training.

Work Environment

This is a field-based position. Work may include uneven terrain, slopes, mud, dust, rain, heat, confined areas, trenches, roadways, and active construction sites. The operator must be able to climb in and out of equipment, work long days when needed, and remain alert in a high-risk construction environment.

Benefits

Competitive pay based on experience and ability.
Medical benefits.
401(k).
Paid time off.
Steady local work.
Opportunity to grow with an established Kauai excavation company.
Team environment focused on safety, production, and quality.

Pay

Starting pay depends on experience, equipment skill level, CDL status, and ability to perform quality work safely and efficiently.

Schedule

Full-time
Monday to Friday
Overtime as needed
Weekend work as needed depending on project schedule

How to Apply

Please submit your resume or work history through Indeed.

Applicants should include:

Equipment operated.
Years of experience.
CDL status, if applicable.
OSHA certifications, if applicable.
Brief description of previous excavation, grading, utility, roadwork, or sitework experience.

Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance

Experience:

Heavy Equipment: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

R Hurst Excavation

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