Equipment Operator I (Site Work & Utility Support)
Locations: Charleston, North Charleston, nexton and clements ferry
Employment Type: Full-time | Schedule: Monday-Friday + Overtime as needed
Compensation: $20-$25/hr depending on experience and operating skill level
Start Date: Immediate openings
About the Role
We're looking for Operator I-level Heavy Equipment Operators to support earthwork, rough grading, and utility (storm/sewer/water) installation on new construction projects across the Charleston region. This role operates medium-sized equipment such as front-end loaders, haul trucks, rollers/compactors, and skid steers , while also assisting crews with general labor tasks as needed.
If you have strong operating skills, a safety-first mindset, and are willing to jump in wherever the crew needs support, you'll fit well with our team.
Equipment You'll Operate
Front-end loader
Skid steer
Haul truck (articulated or rigid frame depending on site)
Roller / Compactor
Additional small equipment/tools: plates, rammers, saws, pumps, trench compaction equipment.
General Field & Labor Tasks
Perform ground labor when needed: shovel, grade, install pipe/service connections, cut/measure materials, operate small tools.
Set up and maintain traffic control : cones, signage, and flagging when required.
Participate in daily JHA/Toolbox Talks , safety meetings, and site briefings.
Maintain general jobsite cleanliness, organization, and safe working conditions.
Work Environment
Full-time outdoor work on active construction sites with heavy equipment, traffic, and varying terrain.
Monday-Friday with potential overtime and occasional Saturdays depending on workload.
PPE required: hard hat, high-vis vest, steel-toe boots, gloves, eye/ear protection.
Benefits & Growth
Competitive pay ($20-$25/hr) depending on operating skill level.
Opportunities to advance into Operator II , Lead Operator , or Foreman roles.
Potential benefits: health insurance, dental/vision, 401(k), PTO/paid holidays, bonuses (if applicable).
Qualifications
Required
1+ years of operating experience with at least two of the following: loader, skid steer, roller, haul truck.
Ability to perform equipment walk-arounds , basic maintenance checks, and report issues.
Willingness to perform labor tasks when equipment operation is not required.
Can work outdoors in extreme weather, lift 50-75 lbs, climb in/out of equipment, and work on uneven ground.
Reliable transportation to sites in Charleston/North Charleston/St. George.
Commitment to safety and following instructions from Foremen/Superintendents.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Summerville, SC.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $28.00/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:
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Summerville,SC.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Mar 23, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.