Heavy Equipment Operator

Overview

The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). Under minimal supervision, will be required to operate multiple types of excavation equipment: backhoes, front end loaders, dump trucks, excavators, sewer and vacuum unit, skid steer, trencher, telehandler, dozer, and snow removal equipment. Will work as lead person in excavation or utility crew.

Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Will work as lead person in crew working independently and will instruct or guide utility operation worker when required. Will be required to operate multiple types of heavy excavation equipment as it relates to underground utilities. Must be proficient and highly skilled in excavating for utilities to protect university assets from damage and not impact university operations. Will take direction from supervision on daily work assignments.
  
  Working environment will be internal and external trades personnel, and may also include outside contractors.
• Responsible for maintaining equipment and reporting all issues to supervisor when equipment needs repair. Will report hours on machines weekly for preventative maintenance to equipment. Housekeeping to equipment in regards to daily cleaning of unit is all the responsibility of the operator. Must be able to perform general mechanical maintenance to equipment:
  Grease unit, change lights, cleaning, hydraulic, oil and fluid checks. Maintaining inventory of basic parts and fluids for each unit.

Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
• Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
• Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options
• Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
• Life insurance coverage
• Employee discount programs

• Minimum
  
  Education and Experience:
  
  High school/vocational school education or equivalent. A certification or documented minimum 4 years' experience in the operation of heavy equipment in utility excavation experience.
• Certifications/Licenses: Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A is required. Must successfully complete Rutgers Defensive Driving Course. Drug and alcohol testing required.
• Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Good communication skills; ability to follow detailed instructions from other trades; ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds; ability to follow and understand utility markout designations; extensive experience and knowledge in excavation and proper installation of utility piping and distribution systems; proper excavation procedures under OSHA guidelines; utility mark‑out procedures as required by B.P.U.;
  
  experience operating snow plow equipment during adverse weather conditions; ability to guide and instruct lower level reports; ability to operate high pressure sewer jetting and vacuum equipment; must have CDL‑A endorsement for truck and trailer operation.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Special
  
  Conditions:
  
  Shift hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  7:00 am- 3:30pm; clean driving record.

Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ.

Posting Open Date: 12/18/2025.
NOTE: AFSCME Local 888 union members must submit an internal bid no later than 9:00 a.m. on Monday, 12/29/2025. Outside applications are also accepted.

All offers of employment are…