Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer
Location: Various Job Sites – in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura Countys.
Employment Type:
About Us
CGS Engineering Corporation is a leading heavy civil engineering construction firm specializing in infrastructure improvements, storm drain systems, channel repairs, and road construction. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality projects in challenging environments while maintaining the highest standards of safety, integrity, and professionalism.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer to join our team. This role demands a skilled operator with at least 3–5 years of experience in heavy civil construction, capable of working in remote locations and handling a variety of tasks in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong leadership qualities, a proven work ethic, and the initiative to go above and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
· Operate a wide range of heavy equipment, including excavators, dozers, loaders, and backhoes.
- Perform excavation, shoring, trenching, grading, and site prep with precision and efficiency.
- Read and interpret construction plans and specifications accurately.
- Perform daily equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and minor repairs.
· Lead or assist small crews when required, providing guidance and maintaining productivity.
· Follow all safety procedures and project protocols to maintain a safe, clean, and organized job site
- Work closely with the site superintendent and crew to complete work to specifications
· Support an environment that promotes the well-being of company tools, equipment, and vehicles
- Communicate and collaborate effectively with the crew and take direction from supervisors, foremen, and members of other trades
- Uphold strict adherence to OSHA and Cal/OSHA safety standards.
- Work effectively under changing site conditions, schedules, and priorities.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience operating heavy civil equipment.
- Skilled in excavation, shoring, and both rough and finish grading.
- Proficient with construction equipment and safety protocols.
- Strong communication, work ethic, and attention to detail.
- Able to work independently or as part of a crew.
- Must have own basic tools.
- Clean DMV record and valid driver’s license required.
- Class A driver’s license is a Plus.
- Reliable transportation to and from remote job sites.
- Must pass a background check and drug screening prior to employment.
- Physically able to:
- Climb stairs, ladders, and temporary structures.
- Navigate construction work areas safely.
- Perform tasks requiring lifting, bending, carrying, and climbing.
- Vision requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, around moving equipment, elevated work areas, electrical hazards, and Confined Spaces.
- Confined Space and Competent Person Certifications are a Plus.
Important Application Instructions
To be considered, you must follow these steps exactly:
- Emailing your application to Office@CGSEngineeringCorp.com
- Subject Line: Use “Operating Engineer – [Your Name]”.
- Attachments: Include an updated resume and at least two professional references.
- Cover Letter Requirement: In your cover letter, briefly describe:
- The most challenging project you’ve worked on.
- The types of equipment you are most experienced with.
- Complete the following Prescreening Questionnaire.
- Bonus Consideration: Candidates who include the phrase “Safety First” in the first line of their cover letter will be prioritized.
Applications that do not follow these instructions will not be reviewed.
Compensation & Benefits
- We pay prevailing wage on applicable public works jobs - Public works follow California prevailing wage (DIR), federal work jobs follow Davis-Bacon, and private work is competitively compensated.
- Prevailing wage includes fringes for,
- Health & Welfare,
- Pension
- Vacation/Haliday Pay
- Earned sick time.
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
- Opportunities for career growth
Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer
Pre-Screening Questionnaire
**Applicant Name: ___________________________ **Date: _______________
**Phone Number: __________________________ **Email Address: _________________________
Section 1 – Minimum Qualifications
(Check “Yes” or “No.” You must meet all minimum requirements to be considered.)
Do you have at least 3 years of experience operating heavy civil equipment?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Are you proficient with excavation, shoring, and both rough and finish grading?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Do you have experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment (e.g., excavators, dozers, loaders, backhoes)?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Do you have a valid driver’s license and a clean DMV record?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Do you have reliable transportation to remote job sites?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Are you able and willing to work in remote locations for extended periods?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Are you physically able to climb stairs/ladders, lift up to 50 lbs, and work outdoors in all weather conditions?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Are you willing to undergo a background check and drug screening before employment?
☐ Yes ☐ No
**If you answer “No” to any question above, you may not meet the minimum qualifications for this role.**
Section 2 – Experience & Skills
1. Types of Equipment Operated (list all relevant equipment you’re proficient with, including sizes/models where applicable):
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
2. Biggest Project Challenge (describe the most challenging project you’ve worked on and your role):
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
3. Safety Practices (briefly explain how you maintain safety on a job site):
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
4. Do you have any leadership or crew supervision experience?
☐ Yes ☐ No
If yes, please describe:
______________________________________________________________________
If yes, please describe:
______________________________________________________________________
Section 3 – Availability & Preferences
1. Are you available for full-time employment?
☐ Yes ☐ No
2. Are you open to overtime and occasional weekend work if required?
☐ Yes ☐ No
3. When would you be available to start?
______________________________________________________________________
Section 4 – Certifications & Licenses
(Check all that apply):
☐ OSHA 10
☐ OSHA 30
☐ First Aid / CPR
☐ Confined Space Training
☐ Class A CDL
☐ Other (please specify): ____________________________
Section 5 – Applicant Certification
I certify that the information provided above is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that falsification or omission of information may result in disqualification or termination if hired.
**Signature:** ___________________________ **Date:** __________________
How to Submit Your Application
1. Complete this pre-screening questionnaire.
2. Attach your updated resume and at least two professional references.
3. Include a cover letter describing:
- The most challenging project you’ve worked on.
- The types of equipment you are most experienced with.
4. Email everything to: [ Office@CGSEngineeringCorp.com ]
5. Use the subject line: Operating Engineer – [Your Name]
Applications that do not follow these instructions will not be reviewed.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $60,346.88 - $72,675.80 per year
Work Location: In person
