Excavator Operator; Underground Wet Utilities

Excavator Operator (Underground Wet Utilities)

Excavator Operator (Underground Wet Utilities)

Date Posted: 05/29/2026

Location: El Paso, TX

Salary Interval: Hourly

Pay Range: N/A

Application Instructions

Are you an experienced Excavator Operator who thrives in underground utility construction?

Texas Sterling Construction is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator that specializes in Underground Wet Utilities to play a key role in water, sewer, and storm drain projects throughout the El Paso area.

As an Excavator Operator, you ll be hands-on in the field performing precision excavation, trenching, utility installation support, and grading activities. You ll work closely with pipe crews and foremen to safely install critical underground infrastructure while maintaining production goals and quality standards. If you take pride in your ability to excavate to grade, work safely around existing utilities, and contribute to successful utility projects, we want you on our team.

We build more than infrastructure—we build careers.

Apply today and help us build Texas with a company that values your skill, dedication, and craftsmanship.

Position Description

Here are the responsibilities of the Excavator Operator for Underground Wet Utilities position:

• Operate hydraulic excavators safely and efficiently in support of underground wet utility construction projects.
• Excavate trenches for the installation of water mains, sewer mains, storm drain systems, manholes, and utility service lines.
• Perform precision excavation around existing underground utilities while minimizing risk of damage to surrounding infrastructure.
• Work closely with pipe crews to prepare trenches, place bedding material, install utility systems, and complete backfill operations.
• Read and interpret grade stakes, blue tops, utility markings, site plans, and project specifications to achieve proper line and grade.
• Use excavator attachments and hydraulic controls to dig, lift, place, and backfill materials safely and accurately.
• Load trucks, move materials, and assist with site preparation and utility installation activities as needed.
• Follow all excavation, trenching, and shoring safety requirements, including working around trench boxes and protective systems.
• Monitor excavation conditions and communicate effectively with foremen, spotters, and crew members to ensure safe operations.
• Perform utility tie-ins, utility relocations, and excavation for structures such as manholes, valve boxes, catch basins, and junction boxes.
• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance including fueling, greasing, cleaning, and lubrication.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and production expectations.
• Support project goals by maintaining productivity, quality workmanship, and teamwork throughout all phases of construction.

Position Requirements

Qualifications for the Excavator Operator for Underground Wet Utilities position:

• Valid driver s license and ability to maintain an acceptable driving record.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience operating hydraulic excavators in heavy civil, utility, roadway, or site development construction environments.
• Experience excavating for underground wet utility systems, including water, sewer, storm drain, and utility service installations, is highly preferred.
• Ability to safely excavate around existing underground utilities and follow utility locate markings.
• Experience working from grade stakes, blue tops, site plans, and project specifications.
• Knowledge of trenching, excavation, and utility construction safety practices.
• Ability to perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
• Experience operating CAT, Komatsu, John Deere, or similar excavators preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding work when required.
• Strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality workmanship.
• OSHA 10 certification preferred but not required.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills are a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer:
We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #LI-SC1