Heavy Equipment Operator – UST Construction Location: Dutchess County, NY Employment Type: Full-Time Pay: $30-$35 per hour, based on experience Travel: Local and regional job sites Company Overview
Chestnut is a family-owned convenience retail and fuels business serving the tri-state area. At Chestnut, our construction team handles environmental construction and underground storage tank (UST) projects for fuel stations, and this role is part of that crew. Across the group, we build people-first operations grounded in care, consistency, and convenience. About the Position Chestnut is seeking a dependable, experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Environmental Construction and Underground Storage Tank (UST) crew. This position involves operating heavy equipment on commercial fuel station construction projects, including underground storage tank removals, replacements, installations, excavation, fuel piping, and site restoration. We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work, understands construction site safety, and can work alongside a crew to complete projects efficiently and professionally.
Responsibilities
- Operate excavators, backhoes, skid steers, loaders, and other construction equipment.
- Perform excavation and trenching for underground storage tank installations and removals.
- Assist with the removal, installation, and replacement of underground fuel storage tanks.
- Excavate for underground fuel piping, utilities, and associated infrastructure.
- Assist with soil removal, grading, backfilling, compaction, and site restoration.
- Work around underground utilities, existing fuel systems, and active construction sites.
- Assist with concrete demolition, canopy demolition, and site preparation as needed.
- Perform daily equipment inspections and identify maintenance or safety issues.
- Follow project plans, site instructions, and company safety procedures.
- Work directly with project managers, foremen, laborers, and subcontractors.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site.
- Assist with general construction labor when equipment operation is not required.
Qualifications
- Previous experience operating heavy equipment on construction sites.
- Excavator experience required.
- Experience with excavation, trenching, grading, and underground utilities preferred.
- Underground storage tank, petroleum construction, or environmental construction experience is a major plus.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to follow instructions, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Ability to travel to job sites throughout Westchester County, Dutchess County, and surrounding areas.
- Must be dependable, punctual, safety-conscious, and willing to work.
Preferred Experience
- Underground fuel tank removal and installation.
- Gas station construction or renovation.
- Fuel piping and underground utility excavation.
- Commercial excavation and site work.
- Working around shoring systems and confined excavation areas.
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
- Experience working with project managers and construction crews.
What We Offer
- Competitive pay based on experience.
- Full-time employment.
- Opportunity to work on specialized environmental construction projects.
- Consistent work with an established petroleum construction company.
- Opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility.
- A team-oriented work environment.
Physical Requirements and Schedule This role requires working outdoors, lifting, and standing for extended periods on active job sites. Please confirm typical hours and overtime expectations with your recruiter. Compensation & Benefits
- Comprehensive health coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Professional development and growth opportunities