Lead Operator

Heavy Equipment Foreman / Lead OperatorCompany: F&P Forestry Services LLC Location: Wasilla, Alaska (Mat-Su Valley and surrounding areas) Reports To: Owners Type: Full-time (seasonal demands typical of Alaska)Position SummaryF&P Forestry Services LLC is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Foreman / Lead Operator to lead field operations for land clearing, site preparation, forestry mulching, and excavation projects across the Mat-Su Valley and beyond.This is a hands-on leadership role. You will be responsible for running equipment, leading crews, and taking ownership of projects from start to finish.We are a growing, family-owned, veteran-owned Alaskan company looking for someone who can step in, take control of a job, and get it done right — without constant direction.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and Supervise CrewsDirect a small team of operators and laborers on job sitesAssign tasks, monitor performance, and maintain productivityTrain and mentor crew members while enforcing accountability and safetyHeavy Equipment OperationOperate excavators for digging, trenching, grading, foundation prep, and material handlingRun forestry mulchers for land clearing and underbrush managementOperate skid steers for grading, material movement, and tight-access workOperate bulldozers for clearing, road building, and site levelingUtilize attachments such as grapple saws for tree removalProject ExecutionExecute full-cycle site development, including clearing, grading, drainage, and build-ready pad prepPerform runway clearing, right-of-way work, and general excavationEnsure jobs are completed efficiently, on schedule, and to specSafety & ComplianceEnforce all safety standards and jobsite protocolsConduct daily equipment inspections and job hazard awarenessMaintain clean, organized, and professional job sitesFollow environmental best practices for Alaskan terrainMaintenance & Equipment CarePerform routine maintenance and minor repairsIdentify and troubleshoot issues to minimize downtimeQuality & Client CommunicationDeliver high-quality work that meets or exceeds expectationsCommunicate progress, challenges, and scope changes with ownership and clientsTechnical ExpectationsRead and fully understand civil site plans, elevations, and grading detailsAssist ownership with commercial bidding and project planningExecute proper site balancing (cut/fill) to reduce material import/exportUnderstand permeable vs. non-permeable soils and how they affect drainage and stabilityBuild and maintain proper grade, slope, and drainage (percentages, swales, water flow)Carry grade without GPS — must know how to build it right without relying on technologyUse a transit and grade rod to establish and verify elevationsUnderstand the difference between tenths and inches and apply it correctly in the fieldEnsure proper compaction methods and lift requirementsUnderstand and assist with septic system installs, including layout, excavation, and frost considerationsRequired Qualifications & Experience10+ years of heavy equipment operating experience5+ years in a leadership or foreman role (or equivalent)Strong background in land clearing, forestry mulching, excavation, or site developmentAbility to read plans and execute work accordinglyStrong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving abilityAbility to work in Alaskan conditions (mud, cold, remote sites)Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions (required)Reliable transportation and strong work ethicPreferred SkillsForestry mulching experienceOSHA, NCCER, or manufacturer certifications (CAT, Deere, FAE, etc.)Experience working in remote or off-grid environmentsMechanical repair experienceWhat We’re Looking ForWe are not looking for someone who just runs equipment.We’re looking for someone who:Takes ownership of jobsUnderstands how to build a site the right wayLeads from the frontSolves problems without waiting for directionIf you don’t understand everything listed above, this position is not a fit.Pay & Benefits$40 – $65 per hour depending on experience30-day probationary periodSalary options available for the right candidateFamily-owned company that understands the importance of familyVeteran-owned and operatedBrand new, top-of-the-line equipmentOpportunity to run jobs and have real responsibilitySteady pipeline of work across the Mat-Su ValleyHow to ApplyCall or text: (907) 671-9330 Or message us directly to start the conversation.