Heavy Equipment Operator I

Custer County • Custer, SD

13h • Onsite

About The Position

This position is located in Custer, SD. Relocation or commute required. Custer County is currently accepting applications for a full-time Equipment Operator I with the Custer County Highway Department. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating heavy equipment, performing hands-on work, and serving the community by helping maintain more than 400 miles of County roads. The Equipment Operator I plays an important role in maintaining safe and reliable roads throughout Custer County. Responsibilities include operating heavy equipment, performing road maintenance and repairs, snow and ice removal, clearing brush and roadside debris, maintaining signage, and performing routine maintenance on County equipment. The ideal candidate will be dependable, safety-conscious, adaptable, and comfortable working independently as well as part of a team. The position requires the ability to work outdoors in varying and extreme weather conditions and respond to seasonal and emergency road maintenance needs. This is a full-time position with a four-day work week, Monday–Thursday, 10-hour days, starting at $23.88 per hour, with a comprehensive County benefits package. Weekends and holidays are generally off, except when weather events or emergencies require road maintenance. The position reports to the Highway Superintendent.

Requirements

• Previous experience operating heavy equipment or driving trucks is preferred but not required.
• Valid South Dakota Class A Commercial Driver's License with tanker endorsement is preferred; required within six months of hire.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Operating heavy equipment including loaders, graders, dump trucks, snowplows, mowers, pickups, and other County equipment.
• Operating trucks and equipment for snow and ice removal.
• Performing road maintenance, repairs, and other manual labor associated with maintaining County roads.
• Clearing brush, trees, and other roadside debris.
• Installing and maintaining road signs.
• Performing routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.
• Following County safety procedures and operating equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
• Responding to weather-related, seasonal, and emergency road maintenance needs.
• Working collaboratively with Highway Department staff, supervisors, other County departments, and the public.
• Performing 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.

What This Job Offers

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