Heavy Equipment Operator – Public Works / Utilities

Operate with Precision - Join CEM Construction as a Heavy Equipment Operator - Public Works / Utilities!

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator - Public Works / Utilities Company Name: CEM Construction Corp Salary Range: $40/hour (private work) - $60-$65+/hour (public works, plus fringe benefits) Location: Los Angeles County and Surrounding Areas Employment Type: Full-Time | Monday - Friday Industry: Civil Construction / Underground Utilities / Public Works

Job Overview:

CEM Construction Corp is seeking an experienced and safety-driven Heavy Equipment Operator - Public Works / Utilities to join our field operations team. This role is critical to the installation and maintenance of underground wet utilities, including potable water, sanitary sewer, and storm drain systems on public works projects. You will operate heavy equipment, read civil drawings, and work closely with crew members to ensure all utility installations meet public agency specifications and comply with prevailing wage laws and safety regulations.

Who We Are:

CEM Construction Corp is a trusted leader in civil construction, utilities, and infrastructure for government and federal clients. With a foundation built on integrity, safety, and technical excellence, our projects improve communities and deliver lasting value. We provide prevailing wage opportunities, a strong support system, and a high-performance culture where you're treated like family and rewarded for your contributions.

Key Responsibilities:

- Operate heavy equipment (excavators, backhoes, trenchers, loaders, etc.) for wet utility construction.

- Excavate and backfill trenches in line with engineered drawings and municipal specs.

- Read and interpret grade sheets, utility layouts, and civil plans.

- Collaborate with foremen, pipe layers, and laborers to ensure site coordination and safety.

- Avoid utility conflicts by verifying locates and observing markings.

- Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance.

- Complete equipment logs, timesheets, and project documentation accurately.

- Set up job sites including traffic control and erosion control per agency requirements.

- Follow all trench safety, confined space, and OSHA compliance protocols.

Qualifications:

- Education & Experience:

- 3+ years of experience in wet utility excavation and pipe installation.

- Experience with Caltrans, city, or county public works standards.

- Licenses & Certifications:

- Valid Class C driver's license required (Class A/B preferred).

- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Construction Certification preferred.

- Heavy Equipment Operator certification preferred (as required by jurisdiction).

- CPR/First Aid Certification a plus.

- Skills & Knowledge:

- Strong understanding of trench safety, public works inspection processes, and prevailing wage compliance.

- Proficiency reading civil drawings and working from grades.

- Team-oriented with a strong commitment to safety and efficiency.

- Experience working under union labor regulations is a plus.

Benefits:

- Weekly Pay Cycle

- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, and Holidays)

- Retirement Plan (401k)

- Paid Training and Certifications

- Tool/Equipment Allowances

- Company Events & Team Culture

- Career Development & Advancement Opportunities

Schedule:

- Full-Time, Monday-Friday

- 8-10 hour shifts, with occasional overtime or weekend work based on project needs

Work Location:

- Project sites across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas

- Must be open to regional travel to active sites

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.Compliance Statement:A background check will be completed as part of the onboarding process, in compliance with applicable laws.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40.00 - $65.00 per hour

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Paid time off

- Professional development assistance

- Retirement plan

Experience:

- wet utility excavation and pipe installation: 3 years (Required)

- Caltrans, city, or county public works standards: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

- CDL C (Required)

- OSHA 10 (Preferred)

- OSHA 30 (Preferred)

- Heavy Equipment Operator certification (Required)

- CPR Certification (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

- Los Angeles, CA 90012 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

- Los Angeles, CA 90012: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person