Heavy Equipment Operator

Tessera•Colorado Springs, CO

12d•$36•Onsite

About The Position

Tessera is seeking a dependable Heavy Equipment Operator to support operations at the United States Air Force Academy. This role operates a variety of heavy equipment, including loaders, graders, bulldozers, skid steers, backhoes, sweepers, and snow removal equipment to support roadway, construction, and maintenance activities. Responsibilities may include interpreting basic plans, performing routine equipment checks, and making minor repairs. Based on operational needs, this position may be stationed at the USAFA to support airfield maintenance and snow removal operations.

Requirements

3–5 years operating heavy equipment in construction, maintenance, or military support environments
Proficient in operating heavy equipment (e.g., sweepers, plows, loaders, compactors)
Ability to read grade stakes, slope indicators, and basic construction plans
Strong understanding of safety protocols and proper PPE usage
Basic mechanical skills for equipment maintenance and emergency repairs
Familiarity with preventive maintenance tracking and reporting
Effective communication and teamwork in a military or structured environment
A valid state driver’s license is required with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance.
CDL Class B required.
Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act.
Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access.
A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

Nice To Haves

Heavy Equipment Operator Certification preferred

Responsibilities

Operates various heavy and light equipment in the maintenance and new construction of projects such as preparing/paving/patching streets and parking lots, maintain gravel and other earth surfaced roads and access roads, blading road and ditches, removing and/or installing culverts, crack sealing, clearing weeds etc.
Read and interpret grade and slope stakes and simple plans.
Communicate with customers in a courteous and respectful manner.
Perform snow and ice removal operations across USAFA grounds, ensuring safe and efficient access to mission-critical facilities during inclement weather.
Support paving operations by hauling materials, staging equipment, and assisting with site prep to ensure smooth and timely project execution across USAFA.
Perform daily safety and maintenance checks.
Clean heavy equipment as scheduled and/or required.
Participate in routine maintenance.
May grease, adjust and make emergency repairs to equipment.
Apply all code requirements during installations, repairs and maintenance.
Ensure all requirements are met as specified by the manufacturer of systems and fixtures.
Ensure all installations, repairs and maintenance are properly sized, aligned, supported and graded.
Ensure all installations, repairs and maintenance meet environmental protection requirements.
Maintain preventive maintenance and repair records.
Read and understand drawings, work plans and maps.
Maintain professionalism in both appearance and demeanor.
Must be able to respond within one hour when on standby.