Laborer to Operator - Construction Equipment

Job Description

Job Description

Join Our Growing Construction Team!

Are you a hardworking laborer looking to grow your skills and advance into heavy equipment operation? We’re looking for motivated individuals ready to work hard, learn fast, and take the next step in their construction career. As a Laborer to Operator, you’ll start with hands-on labor and receive training to operate construction equipment safely and effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Perform general labor on construction sites (site prep, digging, material handling, etc.)

• Assist experienced equipment operators and follow safety protocols

• Learn to operate machinery such as skid steers, backhoes, excavators, loaders, and other construction equipment

• Perform basic maintenance checks and report issues

• Maintain a clean and organized worksite

• Follow instructions from site supervisors and foremen

• Progressively assume more responsibility as skills and certifications grow

Qualifications:

• Previous construction or outdoor labor experience preferred but not required

• Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn

• Ability to work in physically demanding environments (lifting, bending, exposure to weather)

• Basic understanding of construction safety practices

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required

• CDL or heavy equipment experience a plus (but we will train the right person)

What We Offer:

• Competitive hourly wage with opportunity for increases as skills progress

• On-the-job training and mentorship from experienced operators

• Health benefits and paid time off (for eligible employees)

• A safe and respectful team environment

Technical Skills - Great to have but we can teach

1. Equipment Operation – Proficient in operating construction equipment such as:

   • Excavators

   • Loaders

   • Bulldozers

   • Skid steers

   • Backhoes

   • Graders

2. Basic Mechanical Knowledge – Understanding of equipment components and routine maintenance.

3. Site Preparation & Grading – Ability to follow site plans, perform cuts and fills, and grade surfaces.

4. Machine Inspection & Maintenance – Daily inspections, lubrication, and minor repairs.

5. Blueprint Reading – Ability to interpret construction drawings and site layouts.

6. Material Handling – Experience with loading/unloading, stockpiling, and material transport.

7. GPS & Laser Systems – Familiarity with machine control systems and grade checking tools (if applicable).

8. Traffic Control – Knowledge of flagging and work zone setup procedures.

9. Tool Usage – Skilled with hand and power tools used in construction.

Physical & Environmental Skills

1. Stamina & Endurance – Ability to perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.

2. Hand-Eye Coordination – Essential for precise operation of machinery.

3. Spatial Awareness – Maneuvering equipment safely in tight or crowded workspaces.

4. Balance & Agility – For climbing onto equipment and navigating uneven terrain.

Soft Skills

1. Communication – Clear interaction with supervisors, coworkers, and ground crew.

2. Teamwork – Cooperative mindset in fast-paced and coordinated job sites.

3. Work Ethic – Punctual, reliable, and able to take initiative.

4. Adaptability – Willingness to switch between labor and operator roles as needed.

5. Problem Solving – Quickly identifying and addressing on-site issues.

6. Attention to Detail – Following plans and specs accurately to prevent costly errors.

7. Time Management – Efficient in completing tasks within project deadlines.

8. Accountability – Responsible for the safe and proper use of equipment.

Ready to build your future from the ground up?
Apply now and start your career path toward becoming a skilled Construction Equipment Operator!

Company DescriptionSarkinen Ground Works, Inc. has been in business since 2006. We are located in the La Center, Washington area. We perform earth work all over OR and WA and are licensed in both. Sarkinen Ground Works, Inc. is known for the ability to perform more complicated work, efficiently.

Company Description

Sarkinen Ground Works, Inc. has been in business since 2006. We are located in the La Center, Washington area. We perform earth work all over OR and WA and are licensed in both. Sarkinen Ground Works, Inc. is known for the ability to perform more complicated work, efficiently.