Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator – Purdue University Airport

Purdue University Airport Operations maintains the second busiest airport in Indiana and the “largest classroom on campus.” This commercial service airport is open 24/7/365, served by United Airlines, and supports the aviation education & research missions of Purdue. Join a team that takes pride in ensuring airport safety and delivering exceptional service to our tenants and passengers.

• Operate and maintain heavy equipment for snow removal and turf/grounds care
• Perform airfield inspections and corrective maintenance to meet FAA standards
• Implement wildlife hazard control measures
• Assist with emergency operations and on‑call responses
• Keep accurate maintenance and inspection records

• Experience operating heavy equipment in regulated environments; prior airfield experience preferred
• Ability to learn FAA standards and airport practices
• Comfortable with on‑call shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Strong communication and leadership skills; relevant certifications/licenses as required
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical/commercial driver’s license and equipment certs preferred

• 24/7/365 airport operation with varying shifts and on‑call requirements
• Work outdoors in all weather; emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance

• Competitive pay and benefits; professional development opportunities
• Collaborative culture with opportunities for career advancement within a university setting

• High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE)
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience required; two in heavy equipment operation and two (2) in general maintenance
• Must have and maintain a valid Indiana driver’s license

• Commercial Driver’s License

• Capability to: work independently on the airfield and communicate with Air Traffic Control; complete required training
• Ability to pass a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) as warranted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Strong work ethic, personal integrity, and disposition toward teamwork

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• Background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA:
  Non‑Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:
  Non‑exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Benefit Statement:
  Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

• Administrative and Operational Support 3

Purdue University is an EOE employer.