Underground Utility Operator

• Location:
  
  309 S. Water St., Cambridge, IA 50046, United States
• Base Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per year
• Employee Type:
  Full-Time
• Manage Others:
  No

Position Title: Operator

Reports To: Foreman

Department: Field

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay range: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour. Precision Underground also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other benefits.

Join a team that gets the job done right—safely, efficiently, and with pride. As an Underground Utility Operator, you’ll take the lead in operating specialized equipment to install, repair, and maintain underground utility lines including water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunications. You’ll bring hands‑on skills, focus, and a strong work ethic to every job site while upholding high standards for safety and quality.

Employees must maintain compliance with all company policies, federal and state labor laws, U.S. Department of Transportation (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the affirmative action program requirements.

• Operate excavators, trenchers, backhoes, directional drills, and other specialized equipment to complete trenching and boring tasks.
• Install and connect underground utility lines with precision, following all blueprints, specifications, and regulations.
• Read and accurately interpret utility maps, job site plans, and construction drawings.
• Mark underground utilities and ensure safe digging practices using standard locating equipment.
• Demonstrate physical readiness for hard, consistent work—lift heavy materials (50+ lbs) and perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, climbing, stooping, and a full range of motion.
• Maintain all equipment in safe, working conditions through regular checks and preventative care.
• Create and maintain a safe work zone that meets OSHA and company standards.
• Communicate clearly with your crew, foreman and supervisors to keep operations running smoothly.
• Leave every job site better than you found it—clean, restored, and up to code.
• Follow company safety policies and procedures every time, no exceptions.
• Commit to seasonal work demands: 50–60 hours per week in the summer, 30–40 hours in the winter.
• Uphold confidentiality, sign and adhere to a company NDA.
• Operate construction equipment/vehicles safely in compliance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 391 and related rules).
• Perform construction-related duties such as underground utility installation, excavation, and fiber installation.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and reports (DOT driver logs, daily equipment inspections, OSHA safety reports, etc.).
• Adhere to all site safety protocols and report hazards immediately.
• Attend and complete mandatory OSHA, safety, and compliance training.
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned.

• Hold certifications in OSHA, trench safety, confined space entry, or utility locating.
• Bring experience with GPS, GIS, or field data systems.
• Understand and work with a variety of utility systems including water, electric, gas, and fiber optic.
• Knowledge of construction safety standards and OSHA requirements.
• Familiarity with DOT and CDL driver qualification requirements.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow company compliance policies.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years of experience in underground utility installation or a similar trade.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL required for applicable positions.
• Be prepared to obtain a Class A with Air Brakes endorsement within 90 days of hire—we’ll help you get there. Earn an automatic raise once acquired.
• Understand OSHA safety requirements and excavation regulations.
• Operate excavation and boring equipment with confidence and precision.
• Thrive in working outdoors in all weather conditions and handling physically demanding tasks.
• Show strong attention to detail, clear problem‑solving skills, and the drive to get the job done.
• Be flexible and…