Excavator Operator with Barge Experience

Job Description: Excavator Operator with Barge Experience

Job Title: Excavator Operator (Barge Operations)

Job Location: Western North Carolina

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator with a strong background in operating heavy machinery on barges in marine environments. The ideal candidate will be responsible for performing excavation tasks on water-based projects, including dredging, demolition, material handling, and site preparation. The operator will be working in a dynamic and challenging environment and must be familiar with safety regulations and procedures for barge-based work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate excavators and other heavy machinery on barges for a variety of construction, dredging, and demolition projects.
• Perform precise excavation, digging, grading, and material handling tasks in waterborne environments.
• Maintain the safety of operations on the barge, ensuring compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations.
• Inspect equipment before and after operation, performing routine maintenance and identifying any mechanical issues or required repairs.
• Work in collaboration with other crew members, including deckhands and supervisors, to coordinate activities and ensure the timely completion of projects.
• Secure and move materials such as soil, rocks, and debris safely and efficiently.
• Assist with the setup and breakdown of equipment on the barge as required.
• Follow specific project plans and blueprints to ensure accurate and efficient execution of work.
• Communicate effectively with the shore-based team and barge crew to relay progress, issues, and potential delays.
• Adhere to all environmental protection guidelines while operating machinery, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding waterway.
• Maintain detailed records of operations, including daily logs and equipment usage reports.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Excavator Operator, with a minimum of 10 years working on barges or in marine environments.
• Experience operating various types of excavators, including amphibious and long-reach models.
• Strong understanding of barge operations, including safe loading/unloading procedures and the importance of stability and weight distribution.
• Ability to work in challenging and dynamic marine conditions, including potential adverse weather or sea conditions.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in barge-based operations.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, maps, and project specifications.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work long hours, including night shifts or weekends, as required.
• Physically fit and able to perform manual labor when necessary.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with GPS and machine control systems.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and dredging operations.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Experience with multiple types of barges (e.g., crane barges, flat-top barges, shallow-water barges).

Working Conditions:

• This position requires working on a barge, which can involve exposure to water, weather elements, and confined spaces.
• Travel may be required to different job sites.
• Extended hours, overtime, and shift work may be necessary to meet project deadlines.

Compensation:

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
• Benefits package (health, dental, etc.) and other company perks, if applicable.