Heavy Equipment Operator

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day.

Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P Mid Cap 400 index

Knife River is actively seeking a skilled and versatile Equipment Operator to join our team! The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience operating a variety of heavy machinery and a strong commitment to safety and efficiency.

• Operate multiple types of equipment including:
  • Excavator
  • Rock Breaker
  • Dozer
  • Loader
  • Maintainer
  • Other support equipment as needed
• Safely and properly operate and perform maintenance on equipment.
• Keep plant fed for maximum production.
• Maintain contaminate free aggregate piles.
• Inspect material; check gradation quality, oversize rocks, contaminants.
• Check for spillage on plant floor and clean up daily (assist with shoveling spillage).
• Check for worn out flashing on plant that could lead to spillage.
• Always work safely, following all safety protocol, and take action to prevent any and all unsafe actions, processes, and behaviors.
• May maintain the left‑over concrete that is dumped out at the plant.
• Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations.
• Self‑motivated, team‑player with good interpersonal skills; ability to maintain positive customer relations and act courteous/respectful of others.
• Troubleshoot and problem solve situations/problems (material quality, equipment operation/repair, etc.).
• Monitor and discuss production problems with co‑workers and managers/supervisors.
• Ensure OSHA, MSHA, EPA, DNR, lock out/tag out, safety and environmental regulation compliance.
• Timely and regular attendance is essential.
• Perform other duties, including labor intensive tasks, as assigned.

• A valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
• Previous experience operating heavy equipment and equipment maintenance knowledge.
• Must be able to work overtime and be flexible with hours (day time/night time).
• Ability to work outside in all seasons.
• Must have a "safety first" attitude. Strict adherence to safety requirements and procedures is required.

• Extensive walking on uneven surfaces.
• Lift and carry heavy objects if needed.
• Exposure to dust, fumes, odors.
• Hand eye coordination.
• Operating equipment at night under artificial lighting.
• Working in all weather conditions for extended period of time.

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Operator position:

• Airforce:
  Pavement and Construction Equipment
• Army:
  Heavy Construction Equipment Operator, Quarrying Specialist
• Marines:
  Engineer Equipment Operator

Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.

Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

You may apply online at

Contact us today for more information regarding this position at .

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.