Hire Resolve is recruiting on behalf of a client for a TLB Operator position based in Sandton, Gauteng. This permanent opportunity is ideal for experienced Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) operators who have a valid operator certificate and experience working on construction or infrastructure projects.
The successful candidate will safely operate TLB machinery, assist with excavation, trenching, loading, backfilling, and general construction site activities while maintaining high safety and operational standards.
If you have experience operating heavy construction equipment and are looking for your next career opportunity, this vacancy could be the right fit for you.
Salary: R96,000 – R180,000 per annum (Negotiable based on experience)
About Hire Resolve
Hire Resolve is a South African recruitment agency specialising in engineering, construction, mining, manufacturing, finance, and technical recruitment. The company works with leading employers across South Africa to recruit qualified professionals for permanent career opportunities.
Successful candidates may be considered for future vacancies if they are not selected for the current role.
About the TLB Operator Position
The TLB Operator is responsible for safely operating a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe machine to support construction and infrastructure projects.
Daily responsibilities include trenching, excavation, loading materials, backfilling, site preparation, equipment inspections, and assisting with general site operations while complying with all health and safety regulations.
Main Responsibilities
TLB Operation
The successful candidate will:
Operate the Tractor-Loader-Backhoe safely
Perform trenching operations
Excavate construction areas
Backfill trenches
Level surfaces
Load materials
Equipment Inspections
Responsibilities include:
Conducting daily pre-start inspections
Performing basic maintenance checks
Reporting mechanical faults
Ensuring machinery is safe to operate
Construction Support
The TLB Operator will:
Prepare construction sites
Clear working areas
Assist with excavation work
Support infrastructure projects
Material Handling
Duties include:
Loading materials
Off-loading materials
Assisting with site logistics
Supporting daily operations
Safety Compliance
The successful candidate must:
Follow health and safety procedures
Comply with environmental regulations
Report hazards immediately
Operate equipment responsibly
Documentation
Responsibilities also include:
Recording hours worked
Reporting machinery issues
Recording completed tasks
Maintaining operational records
General Duties
Employees may also:
Support construction teams
Assist supervisors
Perform general site duties
Clean and secure machinery after each shift
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
Proven experience operating TLB machinery
Valid TLB Operator Certificate from a TETA or CETA accredited training provider
Valid operator licence or certification
Knowledge of construction site safety procedures
Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should possess:
Equipment Skills
TLB operation
Excavation
Trenching
Loading
Backfilling
Levelling
Safety Skills
Safe machine operation
Hazard awareness
Equipment inspections
Risk management
Personal Qualities
Reliable
Responsible
Honest
Safety-conscious
Hardworking
Workplace Skills
Communication
Teamwork
Time management
Problem-solving
Ability to work under pressure
Working Environment
Successful candidates will work on:
Construction sites
Infrastructure projects
Property developments
Civil engineering projects
The role involves outdoor work in varying weather conditions and requires physical fitness and attention to safety.
Why TLB Operators Are Important
TLB Operators play a key role in construction by preparing sites and supporting building projects.
Their work helps:
Speed up excavation
Improve construction efficiency
Reduce manual labour
Maintain safe work sites
Support infrastructure development
Without skilled equipment operators, many construction projects would experience delays.
Salary
The advertised salary ranges from:
R96,000 – R180,000 per annum
Final remuneration will depend on qualifications, experience, and the employer’s salary structure.
Career Growth Opportunities
Experience gained in this role may lead to positions such as:
Senior TLB Operator
Plant Operator
Earthmoving Equipment Operator
Site Supervisor
Construction Foreman
Plant Supervisor
Additional machinery licences can further improve career opportunities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through Hire Resolve.
Applications may also be submitted by sending an updated CV to:
Suitable candidates may be contacted within three days. Applicants who are not immediately successful may have their CV retained for future vacancies.
Documents Commonly Required
Applicants should prepare:
Updated CV
Certified South African ID
Valid TLB Operator Certificate
Operator Licence
Contactable References
10 TLB Operator Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell us about yourself.
Answer: I am an experienced TLB Operator with a strong commitment to safety and efficient machine operation.
2. Why is daily equipment inspection important?
Answer: It helps identify faults early, prevents accidents, and keeps machinery operating safely.
3. What would you do if you discovered a mechanical fault?
Answer: I would stop operating the machine and report the fault to my supervisor immediately.
4. Can you work under pressure?
Answer: Yes. I remain calm, focused, and complete tasks safely even under tight deadlines.
5. Why should safety always come first?
Answer: Construction sites contain many hazards, and following safety procedures protects workers, equipment, and the public.
6. What experience do you have with TLB machines?
Answer: Describe your previous operating experience, including excavation, trenching, loading, and site preparation.
7. Why should the company hire you?
Answer: I have the required certification, practical experience, and commitment to safe, productive work.
8. Can you work as part of a team?
Answer: Yes. Good communication with supervisors and other workers is essential on construction sites.
9. What are your strengths?
Answer: Safe equipment operation, reliability, teamwork, attention to detail, and responsibility.
10. What would you do at the end of each shift?
Answer: Clean the machine, complete reports, identify any faults, and safely shut down the equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
Yes. This is a permanent opportunity.
Where is the job located?
Sandton, Gauteng.
What qualification is required?
Applicants need a valid TLB Operator Certificate from a TETA or CETA accredited provider and a valid operator licence.
Is previous experience required?
Yes. Applicants must have proven experience operating TLB machinery.
What salary is offered?
The advertised salary ranges between R96,000 and R180,000 per annum, depending on experience.
Final Thoughts
The TLB Operator Vacancy offers an excellent opportunity for experienced machine operators looking to work on construction and infrastructure projects in Gauteng. With a competitive salary, permanent employment, and opportunities for career growth, this position is well suited to qualified operators with a strong commitment to safety and quality workmanship.
If you meet the requirements, submit your application through Hire Resolve and take the next step in your construction career.
Nonhlanhla Ndlovu is the founder and publisher of EduFeeds, a South Africa–focused platform that shares verified learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job opportunities for young people and job seekers.
With a strong focus on helping South African youth access real career opportunities, Nonhlanhla researches and verifies programmes from official company sources and public announcements before publication. EduFeeds aims to simplify the application process by providing clear guidance, requirements, and practical tips to help applicants apply with confidence.
Nonhlanhla continues to monitor updates from SETAs, companies, and training providers to ensure information on Edu Feeds remains current and useful. She focuses on publishing timely and accurate opportunity updates for the South African youth employment market.
