MV​/Telecom Laborer

McAninch Corporation is a leader in the grading and underground utility industry. We are an employee‑owned company that has been recognized as an Iowa Top Workplace for the last 8 years. We partner with a wide variety of clients to provide mass grading, underground wet and dry utilities, excavation, and backfill services for residential and industrial construction projects in Iowa and Eastern Nebraska.

We are seeking motivated, hard‑working individuals to join our MV/telecom team as entry‑level crew members. This position installs underground dry utility structures for medium‑voltage and telecom systems. Laborers prepare materials, shovel/rake dirt and rock, perform stay‑form concrete work, and serve as a safety spotter for equipment operators. We are willing to train the right candidate who is dependable, punctual, safety‑focused, and eager to learn a trade!

This is a hands‑on, outdoor role offering long‑term growth opportunities for individuals with a strong work ethic and willingness to develop new skills in the construction industry.

This position requires extended overnight travel to job sites, typically in Omaha NE or Cedar Rapids IA. Additional locations may be assigned as projects are awarded, typically within a 2 hour drive of Des Moines. Per diem is provided for overnight travel expenses.

• Follow all company, OSHA, and site‑specific safety policies and procedures.
• Support the installation of underground dry utilities for medium‑voltage and telecom projects.
• Spot for equipment operators by being a second set of eyes in areas of limited visibility, focusing on guiding movements, watching for hazards, and communicating clearly to the operator to prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage.
• Direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic using hand signals and traffic control devices to ensure safety and smooth traffic patterns.
• Perform general labor duties, including but not limited to shoveling, setting up fences, moving gates, raking, and cleaning equipment.
• Perform concrete‑related work including forming, finishing, and curing concrete for duct banks and related structures. Set up, align, and secure stay‑forms and other concrete forming systems to ensure proper dimensions and grade.
• Operate hand and power tools such as Hilti guns, bandsaws, quickie saws, and sheers.
• Set out, monitor, and pick up ground thaw units for cold weather operations.
• Anticipate operational needs to ensure productive and efficient work.
• Proactively participate in daily PTPs and ensure daily inspections are completed and reported.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard‑free work area. Assist operators with cleaning exterior of equipment, including shoveling dirt from tracks.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience using basic hand tools and power tools preferred.
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and strong work ethic required.
• Availability to work 10-12 hours a day.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from job sites and the ability to travel as projects are awarded. Travel may be up to 100%.
• Ability to manage time effectively, follow direction, and work as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety and quality.
• Valid driver’s license preferred.

• Ability to independently lift and carry up to 50 lb. frequently.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend/squat, kneel, and twist on a frequent basis. Occasionally crawl.
• Ability to climb ladders in and out of trenches and walk on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors 100% of the time, including in hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• This position may require some sedentary duty.

• $25.43 per hour with overtime paid after 40 hours per week.
• 100% paid benefits, including health/dental/vision insurance premiums and pension dues, as provided by the Local 177 Laborers Union.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that awards shares in McAninch Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.