Traveling Excavator Operator

Traveling Excavator Operator

This traveling Excavator Operator role focuses on underground utilities, with a strong emphasis on gravity sewer and mainline installation. The position requires an experienced heavy equipment operator who can safely excavate deep trenches, install a wide range of pipe types and sanitary sewer structures, and restore job sites to specification. This is a travel-based opportunity that offers consistent overtime potential, with hotel accommodations and per diem covered while working away from home.

• Operate excavators and other heavy equipment to support underground utility construction, with a primary focus on gravity sewer and mainline installation.
• Safely excavate trenches ranging from 5 to over 30 feet deep, maintaining precise grades and slopes to ensure proper gravity flow.
• Interpret and follow grade stakes, laser or GPS guidance, and site plans to achieve accurate trench depths, slopes, and alignments.
• Handle, position, and set various pipe types, including VCP, RCP, PVC, and ductile iron, ranging from 2 inches to 144 inches in diameter.
• Assist with or perform pipe laying activities for sewer and wastewater systems, ensuring correct alignment, joint integrity, and bedding.
• Install manholes and related sanitary sewer structures according to project specifications and industry standards.
• Backfill, compact, and restore surfaces after pipe and structure installation, ensuring stability and proper site restoration.
• Apply trenching and shoring techniques to maintain safe excavations and protect workers and equipment in and around trenches.
• Follow and enforce OSHA trenching, shoring, and excavation safety standards at all times.
• Act as or support the designated competent person for excavation activities, continuously monitoring trench conditions and safety.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced construction environment, coordinating with crew members, foremen, and project leadership to meet schedule and quality expectations.
• Travel regularly to different project sites in and around Knoxville and adapt to varying site conditions, schedules, and project requirements.

• At least 8 years of experience operating excavators and heavy equipment in underground utilities.
• Demonstrated experience with gravity sewer and mainline installation.
• Proven ability to safely excavate trenches from 5 to over 30 feet deep while maintaining precise grades and slopes for gravity flow.
• Hands-on experience handling and setting VCP, RCP, PVC, and ductile iron pipes ranging from 2 inches to 144 inches in diameter.
• Experience installing manholes and related sanitary sewer structures.
• Experience in trenching, shoring, and underground utility construction.
• Working knowledge of sewer systems and wastewater infrastructure.
• Proficiency with GPS-guided equipment or GPS systems used in construction and excavation.
• Strict adherence to OSHA trenching, shoring, and excavation safety standards.
• Training or experience as an excavation competent person or in a similar safety-focused capacity.
• Ability to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly to different project sites in the Knoxville area.

• Experience with a variety of heavy equipment beyond excavators is beneficial.
• Experience in construction and general equipment operation.
• Familiarity with underground utility installation best practices and local standards.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills to coordinate effectively with field crews and supervisors.
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and construction documentation.
• Flexibility to work overtime as needed to meet project deadlines.

This organization offers a long-term, career-focused environment where strong performance leads to advancement and recognition. Many contractors convert to permanent employees, and internal promotions are common, demonstrating a commitment to developing and rewarding talent. Team members enjoy company-wide celebrations, including an annual holiday event for both field and office staff that features meaningful recognition and high-value prizes. The company values hard work and is willing to reward it with pay increases and expanded opportunities.

Employees can access benefits early through the contracting firm, and after the contract-to-hire period, they become eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement savings options such as a 401(k). The organization has been established since 1989 and is recognized as a respected and reliable leader in its industry, offering stability, continuity, and pride in the projects completed.

The role operates in a fast-paced, safety-conscious construction environment focused on underground utilities and sewer infrastructure. Work takes place primarily outdoors on active job sites, involving heavy equipment, excavation, trenching, and installation of sewer and wastewater systems. The…