Heavy Equipment Operator I

Custer County • Rapid City, SD

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Custer County is accepting applications for a full-time Equipment Operator I with the Custer County Highway Department. Based in Custer, South Dakota, the position helps maintain more than 400 miles of County roads through equipment operation, road maintenance and repairs, snow and ice removal, roadside clearing, signage maintenance, and routine equipment upkeep. Relocation or commuting is required. The role requires outdoor work in varying and extreme weather conditions and responses to seasonal and emergency road maintenance needs. The position reports to the Highway Superintendent and requires successful completion of a 12-month probationary period.

This is a full-time position with a four-day work week, Monday through Thursday, working 10-hour days. The starting wage is $23.88 per hour. Weekends and holidays are generally off, except when weather events or emergencies require road maintenance. The role includes physical labor and operation of heavy equipment, hand tools, and power equipment.

Requirements

• Valid South Dakota Class A Commercial Driver's License with Tanker Endorsement is required.
• Ability to read, write, and understand basic instructions, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment and perform physical labor.
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors in varying and extreme weather conditions.
• Ability to work independently, follow directions, and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and the public.
• Must successfully complete a 12-month probationary period.
• Ability to regularly lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, kneel, stoop, crawl, climb, balance, and perform overhead work as required.
• Ability to operate equipment using hand and foot controls and perform repetitive motions and other physical tasks associated with road maintenance.
• Ability to work in conditions involving loud noise, dust, fumes, vibrations, and temperature extremes.
• Ability to hear and respond to radio communications and verbal instructions.
• Ability to safely use tools and power equipment, including chainsaws, mowers, and vibratory tools.
• Ability to work at heights, including bridges, slopes, and embankments, when required.
• Physical requirements may range from light to very heavy depending on the task and season.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience operating heavy equipment or driving trucks is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including loaders, graders, dump trucks, snowplows, mowers, pickups, and other County equipment.
• Operate trucks and equipment for snow and ice removal.
• Perform road maintenance, repairs, and other manual labor associated with maintaining County roads.
• Clear brush, trees, and other roadside debris.
• Install and maintain road signs.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Follow County safety procedures and operate equipment safely and responsibly.
• Respond to weather-related, seasonal, and emergency road maintenance needs.
• Work collaboratively with Highway Department staff, supervisors, other County departments, and the public.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Health, dental, and life insurance options.
• Enrollment in the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS) with a 6% employer match.
• Stable, full-time employment with a four-day work week.
• Comprehensive County benefits package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed