Remote opportunity at
Blue River TechnologyField Test Operator- Excavator
Blue River Technology is developing advanced smart construction machinery alongside John Deere, combining computer vision, machine learning, and robotics to solve critical industry challenges. The organization…
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About This Role
Blue River Technology is developing advanced smart construction machinery alongside John Deere, combining computer vision, machine learning, and robotics to solve critical industry challenges. The organization is currently hiring a Field Test Operator for a 12-month contract position, with potential for extension or permanent transition. In this role, the operator will run a John Deere excavator equipped with specialized cameras and sensors at a designated test site, working directly with…
Job Description
Blue River Technology is developing advanced smart construction machinery alongside John Deere, combining computer vision, machine learning, and robotics to solve critical industry challenges. The organization is currently hiring a Field Test Operator for a 12-month contract position, with potential for extension or permanent transition. In this role, the operator will run a John Deere excavator equipped with specialized cameras and sensors at a designated test site, working directly with engineers to evaluate new machine technologies in authentic digging conditions.
Unlike traditional production work focused purely on moving volume, the primary objective here is safe, smooth, and consistent task execution. The selected candidate will provide verbal commentary and written feedback to help engineering teams understand machinery performance, control behavior, and site dynamics. This opportunity suits experienced excavator operators who possess deep knowledge of heavy equipment, prioritize safety, communicate clearly, and want to influence the future of construction robotics. The hourly pay rate ranges from USD 46 to 68 per hour, depending on experience.
Responsibilities
- Operate a John Deere excavator through planned cycles from startup to shutdown, encompassing digging, swinging, dumping, loading, trenching, and grading
- Repeat established tasks smoothly and consistently to ensure clean and reliable data collection
- Describe operations out loud in real time, explaining observations, plans, bucket angles, approach paths, and machine positioning
- Adhere strictly to testing procedures including run naming, data logging, stop criteria, and incident reporting
- Draft brief written logs after each session detailing events, modifications, and subsequent recommendations
- Conduct daily walkarounds, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting, verifying sensors and cameras are clean and functional before every session
- Collaborate with engineers to diagnose whether equipment issues stem from machinery, site conditions, plans, sensors, or setup
Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of hands-on production experience operating excavators on active job sites
- Proven proficiency in trenching, bulk excavation, benching, grading, slope work, spoil placement, and working near utilities and obstacles
- Demonstrated safety record and jobsite judgment regarding machine stability, blind spots, personnel on the ground, and changing ground conditions
- Mechanical aptitude regarding hydraulics and machine limits, with comfort working around onboard sensors, cameras, wiring, and computers
- Proficiency with tablets or laptops for navigating digital work instructions, checklists, and simple data entry
- Ability to communicate clearly through verbal explanations and short written notes
- Hold a valid driver's license and maintain willingness to work outdoors while adjusting schedules when testing demands it
- Ability to pass a hands-on operating evaluation and provide professional references from a superintendent, foreman, safety lead, or project manager
Qualifications
- 5 or more years of production excavator experience across varied job types and site conditions
- Familiarity with multiple excavator brands and sizes such as Deere, Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, or Hitachi
- Experience operating alternative earthmoving equipment including dozers, wheel loaders, rollers, or skid steers
- Familiarity with GPS or GNSS grade control systems like Trimble, Topcon, or Leica
- Previous tenure as a foreman, trainer, union instructor, equipment evaluator, or new-hire mentor
- NCCER Heavy Equipment Operator credentials, IUOE journeyman status, or equivalent documented training
- Background in remote operation, machine automation, prototype equipment, or field research and development testing
- Prior safety credentials such as OSHA-30 or heavy-civil safety programs
Core Skills
Benefits
- Tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment supplied by the employer
- Reimbursement for all job-required travel expenses
- OSHA-10 training provided post-hire if the candidate lacks an existing card
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers are based only on the employer’s listing; where it doesn’t say, neither do we.
What is the compensation for the Field Test Operator role?
The hourly pay rate ranges from USD 46.00 to 68.00 per hour, determined by the candidate's level of experience.
What is the employment type and duration?
This is a 12-month contract position with the possibility of an extension or a transition to full-time employment.
Is visa sponsorship available for this position?
No, visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
What travel or schedule requirements apply?
The posting indicates that the travel requirement is 100 percent, and candidates must be willing to work outdoors and adjust their schedules when testing calls for it.
Sample Interview Questions
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