Concrete Equipment Operator – Excavator / Dozer / CDL

About Merritt Contracting At Merritt Contracting, we build more than just projects — we build careers. Since 1995, our crews have helped us become a trusted name in civil and concrete construction across Indiana. As a proudly employee-owned company (ESOP), we believe in doing the job right, working safely, and taking care of the people who make it happen.

We're looking for hardworking, skilled individuals who take pride in their work, value teamwork, and want to build a long-term career with a company that invests in its employees.

Position Summary

Merritt Contracting is seeking an experienced Concrete Equipment Operator to join our Concrete Division. This position is ideal for a versatile operator with experience operating excavators and dozers, grading stone, and supporting concrete construction operations. The ideal candidate will be comfortable operating equipment ranging from mini excavators to Caterpillar 315-class machines, performing excavations generally 5 feet deep or less, and using dozers to spread, level, and grade stone for concrete construction projects.

Our dozers utilize robotic UTS (Universal Total Station) grade-control technology. Previous experience with this system is a plus, but we are willing to provide training to operators who have a strong foundation in operating equipment and grading stone. This is a hands-on position. We're looking for someone who takes pride in operating equipment but is equally willing to step off the machine and help the crew get the job done.

What You'll Be Doing Operate mini excavators and larger excavators up to the Caterpillar 315 class or equivalent. Perform excavation work for concrete construction, including footings and other site preparation activities. Perform excavations generally 5 feet deep or less while following excavation safety requirements.

Operate dozers to spread, level, and grade stone for concrete construction projects. Work with robotic UTS grade-control systems, with training provided as needed. Understand basic grades, elevations, and construction layout requirements. Assist with backfilling, site preparation, and other equipment-related tasks. Transport construction equipment and materials as assigned, when appropriately licensed and qualified.

Perform general labor duties and assist concrete crews when equipment operation is not required. Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs. Coordinate with foremen and crew members to maintain safe, efficient jobsite operations. Follow company safety policies and applicable OSHA requirements.

What We're Looking For

Previous experience operating excavators and dozers in construction environments. Ability to operate mini excavators through mid-size excavators, including 315-class machines or equivalent. Experience spreading, leveling, and grading stone using a dozer. Understanding of basic construction grades and elevations. Commercial concrete, civil construction, or sitework experience preferred.

Class A CDL preferred. Class B CDL with tag-trailer experience may be considered , depending on equipment transportation requirements and applicable licensing restrictions. Ability to operate manual-transmission commercial trucks is required. Experience transporting construction equipment preferred. Familiarity with robotic UTS or other grade-control systems is a plus, but not required.

Ability and willingness to perform general construction labor when needed. Dependable, safety-conscious, and comfortable working as part of a team. Willingness to learn new equipment and operating technologies. We value operators who are versatile, dependable, and willing to contribute wherever the crew needs them. Why Work With Merritt?

At Merritt, we believe good people deserve good opportunities, reliable work, and a company that recognizes their contributions. Our benefits include: Competitive hourly compensation Weekly pay Steady, year-round work opportunities Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance Employer-Paid Life Insurance Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay 401(k) with Company Match Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) eligibility after one year, subject to plan requirements Weather Time Off / Weather Bank Program Opportunities for continued training and professional growth Merritt Contracting is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We value individuals who demonstrate strong work ethic, commitment to safety, and pride in their craftsmanship.