Equipment Operator

Harrison Western was founded in 1968 and has provided superior design and construction services to the mining and tunneling industries for over 50 years, as well as providing geotechnical and other unique services to civil projects. Additionally, Underground Infrastructure Technologies, LLC (UIT), a division of Harrison Western, is a full-service utility contractor specializing in trenchless technologies. UIT performs wet and dry utility installations utilizing both trenchless technologies and open cut excavation to complete projects, large or small in multiple geographic markets. Headquarters in Lakewood, Colorado, we have completed over $2 billion in mining and construction development projects that range geographically from the Artic to the Andes.

Position Summary:

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment used in construction and mining operations, including excavators, dozers, loaders, haul trucks, graders, backhoes, and other specialized equipment. This role plays a critical part in site preparation, excavation, materials handling, and support for production and infrastructure work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate a variety of heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner according to project specifications and company procedures.


• Perform pre-operational inspections and routine maintenance (greasing, fluid checks, etc.) on equipment daily.


• Follow site safety protocols, traffic patterns, and supervisor directions at all times.


• Load, move, and grade earth, rock, gravel, sand, and other materials.


• Assist in the construction of roads, pads, foundations, and other infrastructure on mining and construction sites.


• Communicate with ground personnel and other equipment operators using hand signals, two-way radios, or other means.


• Identify and report mechanical issues or safety hazards to supervisors immediately.


• Follow environmental compliance and minimize material waste and spillage.


• Ensure tools and equipment are properly secured and stored at the end of each shift.


• Support general labor tasks as needed.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience operating heavy equipment in construction or mining environments.


• Ability to operate equipment such as (but not limited to):
  
  
  
  • Bulldozers
  
  
  • Excavators
  
  
  • Wheel loaders
  
  
  • Skid steers
  
  
  • Articulated and rigid frame haul trucks
  
  
  • Motor graders
  
  
  • Backhoes
  
  
  
  


• Knowledge of grades, slope reading, and site layout plans is a plus.


• Ability to work in physically demanding conditions, including extreme temperatures, dust, noise, and uneven terrain.


• Strong attention to safety and situational awareness.


• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions in English.


• Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.


• Willingness to work extended hours, night shifts, weekends, and travel to remote job sites as needed.

Licenses & Certifications:

• Valid Driver’s License (required; CDL preferred but not mandatory unless operating trucks)


• Equipment Operator Certification or NCCCO certification (preferred)


• MSHA Part 46 or 48 Certification (required for mining operations – company may provide training if not current)


• OSHA 10 or 30 (preferred for construction-related work)


• First Aid/CPR Certification (preferred)

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend, twist, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs regularly.


• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in remote areas.

Work Environment:

• Frequent exposure to moving machinery, loud noise, dust, and potentially hazardous conditions.


• Work may involve long hours and varying shifts depending on the project schedule.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Compensation $23.00 - $32.00 per hour DOE


• 3 Medical plans to choose from


• Vision and Dental Plans


• 8 paid holidays


• 401k with Company match that is immediately vested

It is the policy of Harrison Western not to discriminate against any employee or any applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, physical condition, developmental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, genetic information or national origin.  This policy shall include, but not be limited to, the following: recruitment and employment, promotion, demotion, transfer, compensation, selection for training including apprenticeship, layoff and termination.  We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We especially encourage veterans and individuals with disabilities to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact the HR department at [email protected].