Lead Excavator Operator

Overview

Excavator Operator Job Description

• Department: Field Operations - Civil / Underground Utilities
• Reports To: Foreman / Superintendent
• Location: Columbus & New Albany, OH (data-center and site development projects)
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt / Hourly

The Lead Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to perform deep utility trenching, grading, and underground conduit or duct-bank installation for data-center and large-scale site development projects. This position requires precision, safety awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively with field crews in a fast-paced, high-standard construction environment.

• Equipment Operation
  • Operate hydraulic excavators and related equipment for trenching, back filling, grading, and material handling.
  • Excavate for installation of utilities such as storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water mains, and underground duct banks.
  • Use GPS or laser-grade control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica) to maintain grade tolerances.
  • Load and unload materials safely, maintaining awareness of swing radius and load capacity.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Follow company safety policies and OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) standards.
  • Participate in daily Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and toolbox meetings.
  • Maintain awareness of underground and overhead utilities.
  • Properly set and remove trench boxes, slide-rail systems, or shoring equipment.
  • Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or equipment issues immediately.
• Team Collaboration
  • Work closely with laborers, foremen, and pipe crews to achieve accurate trench depths, slopes, and alignments.
  • Communicate effectively with ground personnel and follow hand signals or radio directions.
  • Assist in layout verification and grade checks.
  • Support other site operations (grading, loading, compacting) as needed.

Required:

• Minimum 5 years (or 10,000 hours) operating heavy excavation equipment.
• Experience with deep utility trenching (10+ ft depth) and trench safety systems.
• Working knowledge of GPS or laser-guided systems.
• Current OSHA 10-hour certification (30-hour preferred).
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and trench layouts.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to comply with drug and background screening per company and site requirements.

Preferred:

• Competent Person certification for trenching and excavation.
• Experience in data-center, mission-critical, or large industrial projects.
• Familiarity with duct-bank installation and vault placement.

• Ability to operate equipment safely for extended periods (8-10 hours per day).
• Frequent climbing on/off equipment and bending to inspect trench or grade conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Outdoor construction sites with exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise.
• May require overtime, weekend work, or night shifts.
• Projects are primarily located in Columbus and New Albany, Ohio.

• Competitive hourly wage.
• Overtime and shift differential opportunities.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid holidays and time off.
• Training and advancement opportunities.