Heavy Equipment Operator - Excavation
Thornapple Excavating
Grand RapidsOn-site5+ yrs
The job in short
Dozer operator for commercial excavation and grading.
Details
- Found
- 20 d ago · posted 2026-08-18
- Location as listed
- Grand Rapids, MI
- Role
- Construction / Carpenter / Labor
- Source
- The company’s own careers site
Full description
Position: Dozer Operator
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
FT / PT Status: Full-Time
Who is Thornapple Excavating?
Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become one of the most well-known names in commercial excavating in West Michigan. The organization strives to be a leader in earthwork, utility installation, and other commercial excavating services. With a strong work ethic and attention to detail, customers can count on Thornapple Excavating, Inc. to deliver a high-quality product the first time, every time.
Job Responsibilities:
• Operate a dozer, excavator, or other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
• Ability to operate proficiently and at a “finish grade” level.
• Read and understand blueprints to understand the site plan.
• Set up rotary lasers and use for site grading.
• Communicate with site supervisor or foreman about the site-specific specifications or requirements or general plans.
• Communicate with laborers, truck drivers, and other employees to help keep the site running safely and efficiently.
• Perform general maintenance on equipment including inspecting, fueling, greasing, and cleaning tracks daily.
• Clean and maintain equipment inside and out.
• Adjust to seasonal weather conditions and work for up to 12 hours per day.
• Willingness and ability to do what it takes to help get the job done, including operating a different piece of equipment or helping laborers when a situation demands it.
• Knowledge and understanding of commercial excavating and grades.
• Consistently show up on time and ready to work.
• Desire to keep safety in the front of your mind at all times.
Job Qualifications:
• Applicants should have a minimum of 5 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Must have a firm understanding grades and commercial earthwork.
• Prior experience with operating with GPS is encouraged, but not required.
• Ability to perform your work with limited direction / supervision and have the knowledge of how to prepare, install, and maintain the work and equipment.
• Comfortable working in a high-stress environment.
• Be willing and able to work with crew members and open to alternative ways of getting things done.
• Must be safety-minded and have a strong work ethic.
Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
• 1-5 years excavation (preferred) or construction experience operating heavy equipment
Involves the operation of small equipment and tools, including:
• Pavement breakers and jackhammers
• Cement, plaster, and mortar mixers
• Saws
Benefits Our Employees Enjoy:
• 401(k) with company match
• 100% paid company paid Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Year-end bonuses
• Company events and outings
• Referral bonus
Schedule:
• Day shift with OT opportunity
• Monday - Friday, no weekends
• Work Location - 50 mile radius of Grand Rapids, MI
Education:
• High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Construction / Carpenter / Labor jobs in Grand Rapids, Michigan · Construction / Carpenter / Labor jobs in the United States · All Thornapple Excavating jobs