Equipment Operator

Join the Connexus Energy team as an Equipment Operator. In this role you will operate various vehicles and equipment, safely, reliably and in a timely manner, to ensure successful installation of underground and overhead electrical utilities to provide members with safe, reliable service.

Based in Ramsey, Connexus Energy is Minnesota's largest electric cooperative, providing electricity, renewable energy alternatives and related services to 145,000+ residential and commercial members just north of the Twin Cities. We offer a collaborative work environment with challenging and rewarding work, which provides for professional development and work-life balance in a highly technical, stable and innovative industry. We give back to the communities we have served for more than 80 years by embracing opportunities to volunteer, donate and support economic development. Our talented and friendly staff focuses on achieving our mission of powering our members and communities toward a smarter energy future with a passionate focus on affordability, innovation, safety, and grid reliability. Fast Company named Connexus to its prestigious list of 2024's Most Innovative Companies.

Key Responsibilities and Results:

• Operate equipment in an effective, efficient and safe manner, observing all laws, rules and operational requirements.

• Operate cable plows and trenchers, safely and effectively, for the installation of underground services.

• Determine the best and safest route from the house to the transformer.

• Operate hydraulic backhoe or excavator, safely and effectively, in order to provide a safe, smooth trench.

• Dig safely around other utility lines and cables so no damage occurs.

• Operate skid steer or loader, safely and effectively, for backfilling trenches and restoring the area in a proper manner.

• Fill-in and compact the trench without hitting any cables.

• Operate machinery successfully around transformers, PEOs, and water stops.

• Operate digger derrick safely and effectively for the installation of overhead facilities.

• Determine best and safest placement of truck to effectively dig and place poles and other equipment.

• Read and understand staking sheets for the job, asking for and receiving clarification, if needed.

• Transport, load and unload, construction equipment on and off the job sites in a safe and timely manner.

• Perform manual excavation by hand when necessary.

• Safely pothole for visual sighting of buried facilities.

• Hand dig, as needed, to safely install Connexus facilities around and near sensitive equipment and property.

• Restoration of ground and property back to as close to original condition as possible.

• Safely maintain equipment to ensure that all equipment is operational.

• Conduct all preventative maintenance in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.

• Perform needed temporary repairs in field to maintain productivity.

• Perform snow removal operations on company grounds and job sites.

Required Education and Expertise

• High school or General Equivalency Diploma

• Current and valid Class A Driver's License

• Valid health card

• Minimum five years' experience operating earth moving equipment

• Basic knowledge of diesel engines and hydraulic equipment.

• Ability to operate heavy equipment such as trencher, backhoe, dozer, skid steer, loader excavator.

• Ability to communicate clearly, timely and effectively via e-mail, text, or other job-related applications.

• Ability to drive and operate heavy equipment in traffic congestion.

• Ability to pull deck-over equipment trailer in excess of 30' safely and effectively through traffic or congested areas.

Pre-Employment Requirement: Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

Compensation: Connexus Energy offers employees a competitive base wage, an annual incentive, and an attractive benefits package including medical, dental, life, company provided disability insurance, generous company contribution and match to 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. The union wage scale along with the candidate's experience will determine starting wage.

An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities, Women, Veterans, Disabilities

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or veteran status.