Job Details

Heavy Equipment Operator (Topeka, KS)

Open to traveling operators. Will pay $120/day per diem. Pay: $50/hour for first 3 weeks of training. After that pay goes to $38.72/hour for duration of the job (approximately 3-4 months).

Will be working an I70 Bridge Project in Topeka, KS. You will operate heavy equipment such as excavators, track hoes, dozers, forklifts, skid steers, loaders, and front-end loaders in varying weather conditions. This role operates a variety of heavy equipment to support excavation, drilling, demolition, and site preparation activities on large civil and commercial projects. You will handle complex earthwork and structure removal tasks, working safely and efficiently in demanding outdoor environments while coordinating closely with field crews and supervisors.

Responsibilities

• Operate track hoes, excavators, and related heavy machinery to perform demolition, drilling, rock breaking, and dirt work.
• Support controlled demolition activities for bridges, commercial buildings, residential structures, and concrete or rock materials.
• Operate drilling equipment for foundation piers, drilled shafts, earth retention systems, and pre-bore work.
• Handle materials by loading, moving, and hauling rock, dirt, and construction debris as part of excavation and demolition workflows.
• Prepare job sites by clearing, grading, and setting up areas for drilling, demolition, or excavation operations.
• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections of equipment, perform basic maintenance tasks, and promptly report mechanical issues.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in operating excavators and track hoes, including in tight or high-risk environments.
• Demonstrated experience with heavy construction equipment such as dozers, forklifts, skid steers, loaders, and front-end loaders.
• Strong understanding of controlled demolition processes, methods, and associated hazards.
• Ability to work effectively in rock excavation, bridge demolition, and large-scale commercial project environments.
• Physical ability to perform demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions, on uneven ground, and in muddy or dusty areas.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate tasks and safety considerations with supervisors and crew members.
• Commitment to following OSHA and company safety standards and maintaining a safe work area.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience on civil construction projects, including bridge and roadway work.
• Experienced working on prevailing wage projects or similar large infrastructure jobs.
• Comfort operating equipment during both day and night shifts as project needs require.

Why Work Here?

You join a team that offers competitive pay structures, generous per diem for travel, and significant opportunities for overtime. The work provides exposure to large, complex civil and commercial projects, supporting professional growth and skills development in heavy equipment operations. Travel opportunities allow you to work on diverse job sites while being compensated for time away from home.

Work Environment

This position works primarily outdoors on active construction and demolition sites. The environment is physical and fast-paced, with exposure to loud noise, mud, dust, and uneven ground. Shifts may include days from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and nights from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., depending on project requirements. Proper safety gear is required at all times, and you will work within clearly defined safety protocols around active demolition and excavation zones.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Topeka, KS.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $38.72 - $50.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Topeka, KS.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 26, 2026.