Heavy Equipment Operator

Build What Matters - Join Carrigan Excavating as a Heavy Equipment Operator!

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator
Company Name: Carrigan Excavating
Pay Range: $22-$27 per hour (based on experience) + Performance Bonus
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Location: Lamar, CO
Type of Construction/Work we perform: Heavy Equipment / Rigging (Residential, Commercial, Government or Federal)

Job Overview

Carrigan Excavating is seeking two experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our Field Operations team. This full-time role is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy machinery across residential, commercial, municipal, agricultural, and aggregate projects throughout Southeastern Colorado.

Our operators take pride in their craft-running equipment with precision, maintaining productivity, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. If you are a skilled professional who thrives in outdoor environments and values teamwork, safety, and quality workmanship, we want to hear from you.

Who We Are

Carrigan Excavating is a family-owned excavation company serving Southeastern Colorado for over 30 years. We support local communities, farmers, ranchers, and businesses with reliable excavation services across residential, commercial, and government sectors.

Our mission centers around service-to our team, our customers, and our community. We are committed to safety, efficiency, innovation, and creating opportunities for growth and advancement. At Carrigan Excavating, you are more than an employee-you are part of a team that values integrity, craftsmanship, and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including skid steers, backhoes, excavators, dozers, loaders, and related machinery
• Perform excavation tasks including digging, grading, trenching, lifting, and moving materials
• Dig, locate, and repair underground utilities
• Load, secure, and transport materials and equipment
• Read and interpret blueprints, job scopes, layouts, and diagrams
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment
• Identify and report mechanical or safety concerns immediately
• Ensure OSHA compliance and maintain a safe job site
• Coordinate daily tasks and equipment needs with the Foreman
• Monitor job progress to maintain schedule and cost control
• Secure equipment and materials at the end of each workday
• Complete required documentation including timecards, quality control forms, and job tracking reports
• Train and support new operators and crew members as needed
• Maintain professional communication with customers, crew members, and leadership

Qualifications

• 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment preferred
• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Valid driver's license without restrictions
• CDL-A license preferred
• Equipment operation certifications preferred
• Experience in municipal, agricultural, and aggregate applications preferred
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and job scopes
• Strong understanding of excavation safety and OSHA regulations
• Ability to work outdoors in varying seasonal weather conditions
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure
• Physical ability to stand, sit, bend, lift, and perform demanding tasks for extended periods
• Effective communication skills and ability to work in a team environment

Benefits

• Compensation & Financial Benefits
  • Weekly pay cycle
  • Performance bonus opportunities
  • Retirement savings program
  • Employee stock or profit share opportunities
  • Referral bonus program
  • Prevailing wage project opportunities
• Health & Wellness
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Safety equipment provided
• Work-Life Balance
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid sick leave
  • Paid parental leave
• Career Growth & Development
  • Paid training and certifications
  • Apprenticeship and mentorship programs
  • Personal tool replacement program
  • Tech package (smartphone or tablet)
  • Opportunities for advancement within Field Operations
• Additional Perks
  • Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (as applicable)
  • Annual trips and company outings
  • Team events
  • Employee rewards programs
  • Community and charity involvement

Work Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday - Friday
• Overtime may be available depending on project needs

Work Location

• Based in Southeastern Colorado
• Remote job sites throughout the region
• Primarily outdoor work in seasonal conditions
• Local travel required between job sites

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.