Excavator Operator

Job Description Position summary

We are hiring experienced Excavator Operators to safely operate excavators and support installation/repair of underground water lines, sanitary sewer piping, manholes, and storm drainage systems on commercial and municipal sites. This is a hands‑on role on active job sites across the Triad area; operators also participate in crew tasks and site safety.

• Safely operate a 10-ton class track excavator for trenching, pipe laying, bedding, backfill, grading, and site restoration.
• Expose and excavate around existing utilities with care, and assist with installations, tie‑ins and repairs.
• Place and position pipe, manholes, inlets, and other components using attachments and rigging procedures.
• Assemble, install, and handle shoring systems and other excavation safety controls.
• Monitor equipment: check/maintain fluids, filters, gauges; perform daily greasing and basic preventative maintenance.
• Support and coordinate with ground crew (spotting, guiding loads, materials handling).
• Participate in manual labor tasks, as required and maintain site housekeeping and traffic control measures.
• Follow project plans, directions from crew leaders, and all safety/OSHA/regulatory requirements; complete required documentation.

• Experience with 10-ton track excavator or equivalent - REQUIRED.
• Verifiable experience operating excavators (minimum 3 years preferred).
• Verifiable trench excavation and backfill experience.
• Experience assembling and installing shoring systems.
• Verifiable safety training (OSHA 10 preferred).
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to job sites.
• Able to lift 50+ lbs, stand/bend/kneel for long periods in outdoor conditions.
• English required;
  Spanish a plus.
• Applicants must complete requested Zip Recruiter skill tests/assessments to be considered.

• Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check.
• Completion of Zip Recruiter assessments required for consideration.

• OSHA 10, Trenching & Shoring, Confined Space, CPR/First Aid (or willingness to obtain).
• Equipment/operator certifications a plus.

• 401(k) with matching
• Health, dental, vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Paid time off
• Safety equipment provided
• Opportunities for training and career advancement (entry → experienced operator → lead → foreman/superintendent or specialist)

Baker Underground, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply.

We run small, five‑person crews — there’s no place to hide. We’re looking for people who want to work hard, learn, and grow as part of a tight‑knit team. Your performance shows quickly; within a couple weeks the crew will know if you’re a good fit. If you’re dependable, safety‑minded, and ready to build a career, we want to hear from you.

Forklift Operators are not qualified for this position.

No applicant will be considered without this experience.

We are a regional utility contractor specializing in the installation and maintenance of water, sewer, and storm drainage systems for municipal and commercial clients throughout the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina. Operating multiple crews with a steady backlog of contracted projects, we provide stable work, on-the-job training, and clear advancement opportunities. We value safety, reliability, and teamwork and are looking for experienced and motivated professionals to grow