Heavy Equipment Operator

Join the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County as a Heavy Equipment Operator in the Facilities Management Department and help care for the preserve infrastructure that supports over 26,000 acres of protected land.

Work with a supportive team where every day you assist with a wide range of tasks including excavation for trenching, masonry projects, demolitions, installation and repair of gates and fencing, utility installation and repair, snow plowing, truck mounted crane operation, material and equipment hauling, and support to various trades to ensure the preserves remain beautiful, functional and accessible to the public.

What You'll Do

• Operate and maintain a wide range of heavy construction equipment, including excavators, backhoes, loaders, trucks, and asphalt machinery, to support a variety of infrastructure and facilities.
• Perform lifting, stabilization, repairs, maintenance, removal, and placement of materials.
• Lead or support field supervision of colleagues and seasonal staff in the completion of excavation projects.
• Manage asphalt repairs and installation, including patching, milling, striping, sealing, and maintaining wheel stops.
• Conduct minor maintenance on heavy, mechanical, and/or hand equipment used.
• Perform material and equipment hauling and transportation on preserve and public roadways.
• Assist a team of other skilled laborers with the execution and completion of maintenance and facilities-related tasks.

What You'll Need

• Must be 18 years of age or older at time of hire.
• Three (3) years of experience operating specialized medium and heavy construction equipment-or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Valid Class A CDL license (with air brakes, combination vehicle, and tanker endorsements) in good standing.
• Certifications (required or to be earned):
  • OSHA 10 and other applicable OSHA safety training (general industry and construction standards).
  • Confined Space certification.
  • Respirator Certification.
  • First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Strong working knowledge of:
  • Road, trail, and drainage construction methods.
  • Excavation, trenching, and utility safety.
  • Equipment mechanics and daily inspections.
  • Water flow and land grading.
• Skills and experience in :
  • Operation of heavy machinery and equipment, as well as under all types of weather conditions.
  • Understanding of load limits and the safe transport of equipment and materials.
  • Maintenance procedures on machinery and equipment.
  • Performing manual labor related to maintenance and trade activities.
  • Teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • An understanding and use of personal protection equipment.

Schedule, Pay & Benefits

• Monday-Friday, 6:30 am - 2:30 pm.
• Starting Pay: $29.58 - $32.90 per hour.
• Infrequent overtime opportunities during winter snow/ice operations or emergency call-outs.
• We offer an outstanding and affordable benefit package including medical, pension program, and more. To find out more, visit our website.
• Tool and safety equipment provided.

Work Setting

• Based out of the District's Facilities Maintenance office in West Chicago, IL.
• Field-based work across various forest preserve sites throughout DuPage County.
• Tool and safety equipment provided.
• This position is represented by a collective bargaining unit. Candidates hired into this role will be subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the applicable union contract. To review the agreement, please visit the " Work for Us " page on the Forest Preserve District's website.

Apply Today

Follow the link to apply directly and be considered for the position.

Additional information about the position and job duties can be found in the attached job description or on our website.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.