Heavy Equipment Operator - Dirt

Martin Marietta • Fort Collins, CO

15d • $25 - $35 • Onsite

About The Position

The Dirt Equipment Operator is a skilled role responsible for the operation of medium-to-heavy earthmoving and soil-conditioning equipment specifically for the preparation of roadbeds, parking lots, and other surfaces prior to asphalt or concrete application.
The Dirt Operator is expected to operate equipment with a high degree of precision, particularly in finish grading and sub-grade preparation. This individual ensures that the 'dirt' phase of the paving project meets exact specifications for slope, elevation, and compaction, directly impacting the quality and longevity of the final paved surface.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience
• 3–5 years of heavy equipment operation specifically in a dirt/grading or paving environment.
• OSHA compliance and regulations
• Mechanical aptitude
• Technical aptitude
• Detail oriented
• Time management
• Effective communication (written and spoken)
• Leadership
• You must be able to lift up to 50–75 lbs consistently. This is often required when changing equipment attachments, handling heavy tools, or moving materials by hand.
• You must be able to climb on and off heavy machinery (graders, rollers, loaders) multiple times a day. Some sites may require climbing stairs/ladders up to 100 feet at plant locations.
• Expect to sit and operate equipment for long hours.
• Constant bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching around equipment to perform pre-shift inspections and grease moving parts.

Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of heavy equipment including, but not limited to, Motor Graders (finish grade), Dozers (with GPS/LPS integration), Backhoes, Skid Steers, and Pad-foot/Smooth Drum Rollers.
• Execute fine grading of sub-grade and base materials to within strict tolerances (typically within 0.1 foot) to prepare for asphalt or concrete paving.
• Efficiently spread, level, and smooth dirt, gravel, or stone to the required depth and slope.
• Operate tamping and rolling equipment to ensure soil density meets engineering requirements, preventing future settling or pavement failure.
• Read and interpret construction stakes, grade markers, and blueprints to determine cut-and-fill requirements without constant supervision.
• Utilize and troubleshoot onboard grade-control technologies to maintain automated precision during the grading process.
• Identify and avoid underground and overhead utilities (water, gas, electric) through the study of 'One-Call' markings and site maps.
• Conduct thorough 'Walk-Around' inspections daily. Document and report any mechanical deficiencies, fluid leaks, or safety hazards to the maintenance department immediately.
• Perform basic field maintenance, including greasing joints, cleaning tracks/undercarriages, checking oil/coolant levels, and ensuring cabs are kept in a professional, clean condition.
• Assist in the loading and unloading of equipment onto lowboy trailers and secure loads according to DOT and company standards.
• Adhere strictly to Martin Marietta’s 'Guardian Angel' safety culture. Ensure all tasks are performed in compliance with OSHA regulations.
• Actively participate in daily safety meetings. Identify potential hazards such as unstable slopes, blind spots, or ground crew proximity.
• Assist in the setting up of work zone traffic control (cones, signs, flagging) to ensure a safe buffer between heavy machinery and public or site traffic.
• Assist in the training of Operators and Laborers on safe machine operation and basic grading techniques.
• Communicate effectively with dump truck drivers, laborers, and paving crews via hand signals or two-way radio to maintain a continuous, efficient workflow.

Benefits

• In addition to our base compensation, we also offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan.
• Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.
• Part time employees are eligible to participate in the 401k plan and receive a company match. In addition, they are eligible to start accruing service for the pension plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees