Job Description
Equipment Operator Intern Knife River is a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and go home safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams, that in turn, build strong communities. Join our growing team today! At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index. Role Overview: Equipment Operator Intern supports heavy highway construction operations by assisting experienced operators and crews on roadway, bridge, and civil infrastructure projects. This internship provides hands-on exposure to heavy construction equipment, DOT safety standards, and large-scale job site operations while developing foundational skills for a career in heavy highway construction. Typical hours are Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on weather and customer demand. The internship runs from June August 2026. Minimum Requirements: (minimum educational, experience, or other relevant job requirements) Currently enrolled in or recently completed a construction, or technical program Ability to follow detailed instructions and safety requirements Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and irregular schedules Basic mechanical aptitude preferred Ability to hold and maintain proper licensure and acceptable driving record. Duties and/or Responsibilities: (summary of components that make up the job) Assist certified equipment operators with daily heavy highway construction activities Learn safe operation fundamentals of heavy highway equipment, including excavators, loaders, rollers, skid steers, graders, and haul equipment under direct supervision Support roadway construction tasks such as grading, earthwork, paving preparation, drainage installation, and material placement Perform pre-operation and post-operation inspections of equipment Assist with fueling, greasing, cleaning, and basic preventative maintenance Follow all DOT, MSHA, OSHA, EPA, DNR, and company safety policies, including traffic control and roadway work zone requirements Participate in job briefings, toolbox talks, and safety meetings Work closely with foremen, operators, laborers, and survey crews Perform general labor duties as required, including site cleanup, traffic control support, and material handling Always work safely and take action to prevent any and all unsafe actions, processes, and behaviors. Perform other duties as assigned. Additional Information: Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal laws. Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks. All applications are submitted online. If you are having issues completing the application, please come to the office for assistance.