Chris Burton
West Columbia
Summary
Experienced Heavy Equipment Operator and Lead Man with 10+ years in construction, specializing in grading, excavation, and underground utilities. Proven ability to lead crews, operate GPS-guided equipment, and deliver projects efficiently while maintaining safety and quality standards. Strong background in transitioning into foreman-level responsibilities with excellent communication and leadership skills.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Heavy Equipment Operator / Lead Man
Fred Smith Company
Raleigh-Durham
01.2022 - Current
- Operate GPS dozers, excavators, and grading equipment for large-scale sitework projects
- Promoted into Lead Man role, supervising crew members and coordinating daily operations
- Selected for Foreman-in-Training program based on performance and leadership
- Ensure safety compliance and maintain strong communication across crews
- Troubleshoot equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain productivity
Heavy Equipment Operator
Sullivan Eastern, Inc.
Morrisville
11.2020 - 01.2022
- Operated heavy machinery for grading and site development
- Assisted with project layout and execution using GPS systems
- Maintained equipment and ensured jobsite efficiency
Pipe Layer / Operator / Grading
Ace Avant
Cary
12.2016 - 04.2020
- Installed underground utilities including sewer, storm drain, and water lines
- Performed trench grading, pipe placement, and joint sealing
- Operated heavy equipment to support excavation and grading tasks
Pipe Layer / Equipment Operator
Carolina Civil Works
Durham
08.2015 - 05.2016
- Installed RCP, ductile iron, and PVC piping systems
- Assisted in grading, excavation, and backfilling operations
- Read and followed blueprints to meet project specifications
Laborer / Operator
MWH Constructors / Wade Meadows
Apex
01.2014 - 08.2015
- Supported construction operations across multiple roles
- Assisted with utility installation, grading, and equipment operation
Farm Work
Quail Roost Farm
01.2008 - 01.2014
Education
G.E.D. -
Durham Technical Community College
Durham, NCSkills
- Heavy Equipment Operation (Dozer, Excavator, Loader, Backhoe)
- GPS Systems: Topcon & Trimble
- Grading (Rough & Fine)
- Underground Utilities (Storm, Sewer, Water)
- Pipe Installation (RCP, Ductile Iron, PVC)
- Blueprint Reading
- Construction Management Support
- Crew Leadership & Coordination
- Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Concrete Forming & Finishing
- OSHA & Safety Compliance
Certification
- OSHA 30
- First Aid Certified
- CPR Certified
- Confined Space Certified
- Valid Driver's License
Personal Information
- Willing To Relocate: 1
- Authorized To Work In The US: 1
Timeline
Heavy Equipment Operator / Lead Man
Fred Smith Company
01.2022 - Current
Heavy Equipment Operator
Sullivan Eastern, Inc.
11.2020 - 01.2022
Pipe Layer / Operator / Grading
Ace Avant
12.2016 - 04.2020
Pipe Layer / Equipment Operator
Carolina Civil Works
08.2015 - 05.2016
Laborer / Operator
MWH Constructors / Wade Meadows
01.2014 - 08.2015
Farm Work
Quail Roost Farm
01.2008 - 01.2014
G.E.D. -
Durham Technical Community College