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Looking for an exciting, dependable career in the trades? Consider becoming a heavy equipment operator.

In our growing communities of Bozeman, Billings, and Big Sky, heavy equipment operators are in high demand. So continue reading to learn about the long and short of this awesome career. From the key responsibilities to the myriad job opportunities, there is a lot about heavy equipment operation to be excited about.

The short answer: A heavy equipment operator operates heavy equipment. (Duh.)

The long answer: The obvious description of a heavy equipment operator’s responsibilities captures only part of this multi-faceted career. Heavy equipment operation is a skill that takes time to build and may require specialized training (and, in some cases, certification) to operate powerful earthmoving machines and vehicles. This job serves a critical role in engineering and construction projects. From road construction to sitework to underground utilities, heavy equipment operators are essential to our industry.

The short answer: Anything that digs, dumps, dozes, loads, lifts, or lays.

The long answer: The kind of equipment a heavy equipment operator might operate depends on the job. However, many common types of heavy equipment include the following:

Each of these machines require specialized training and detailed knowledge of safety measures. Our Learning and Development programs, Safety Department and experience leadership are prepared for the task.

The short answer: A lot.

The long answer: Heavy equipment operators are needed across the construction industry. Williams Civil Construction is actively recruiting heavy equipment operators for 2020, with several large commercial and residential developments in Big Sky, Bozeman, and across Montana on the horizon.

Heavy machine operators played a major part in our recent flagship projects. These include the new Gallatin High School, the new Bozeman Health ICU, and the Ulery’s Lake Lodge in Big Sky.

The short answer: Very, very good.

The long answer: While the career outlook for heavy equipment operators across the construction industry is positive, we can speak best from our own experience. Our entire Williams Civil Construction team can lay claim to stable roles for the foreseeable future. With over 80% of our work dedicated to repeat clients and over 50% of our projects locked in multi-year contracts, the job security for our construction team — including heavy equipment operators — is nothing short of fantastic.

Visit our careers page to find current job opportunities at Williams for heavy equipment operators. We look forward to hearing from you!