Heavy Equipment / Grader Operator

Company Overview:
Total-Western, Inc., founded in 1972, is a premier provider of industrial construction and maintenance services across industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, petrochemical, food & beverage, and renewable energy. Committed to safety, quality, and operational excellence, we deliver a full range of services, including engineering, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance (EPCOM). Our core competencies include ASME code welding, mechanical and civil construction, and electrical & instrumentation services.

With offices throughout California, the Pacific Northwest, and Arizona, Total-Western provides high-quality, cost-effective solutions across the Western U.S. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of safety and innovation, enabling our clients to meet complex operational challenges while driving sustainable success.

Position Overview:
The Heavy Equipment / Grader Operator is a full-time role essential to our field operations. This position requires expertise in operating motor graders along with a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, backhoes, tractor-trailers, excavators, and water trucks. The ideal candidate will be experienced in HAZWOPER protocols and dedicated to maintaining a safe, efficient, and productive work environment on diverse construction sites.

Key Responsibilities:

• Equipment Operation: Operate motor graders and associated heavy equipment (dozers, loaders, backhoes, tractor-trailers, excavators, and water trucks) safely and efficiently on job sites.
• Site Preparation & Maintenance: Conduct grading, material handling, and debris removal to prepare and maintain optimal work conditions.
• Safety & Compliance: Strictly adhere to all safety protocols and HAZWOPER standards, ensuring a safety-first approach in every task.
• Equipment Inspection & Maintenance: Perform daily inspections, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting on all assigned equipment to guarantee reliable performance.
• Coordination & Communication: Collaborate with site supervisors and team members to coordinate project objectives, schedule adjustments, and safety procedures.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate logs of equipment operation hours, maintenance activities, and any incidents for compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience operating motor graders, with proficiency in handling dozers, loaders, backhoes, tractor-trailers, excavators, and water trucks.
• Current HAZWOPER certification and a valid operator’s license for heavy equipment operation.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience in industrial construction or maintenance settings.
• Familiarity with Total-Western’s core industries including oil and gas, petrochemical, and renewable energy.
• Additional certifications or training in heavy equipment maintenance or advanced operational techniques.

Work Environment:

• Full-time, field-based role requiring regular work at diverse construction sites.
• Exposure to varying outdoor weather conditions with mandatory adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Occasional travel may be required based on project location and needs.

Reporting Structure:
This role reports directly to the Site Supervisor and works closely with project managers and field personnel to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive base hourly rate between $30 and $40 per hour, depending on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and ongoing training to advance skills and career growth.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO):
Total-Western, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where employment decisions are made solely on the basis of business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.