Loader Operator​/Hillman

At Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc., we don't just build infrastructure — we build life-changing infrastructure. We are a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contracting firm based in Jacksonville, FL.

We specialize in public works, water resources (including water and wastewater treatment plants), and site development, with expertise in underground utilities, roadway construction, and related civil infrastructure.

We are seeking a dependable Loader Operator / Hillman to support our underground utility pipe crews. This combined role includes operating a front end loader, staging and delivering materials, and performing hands-on ground support that keeps pipe installation moving safely and efficiently.

You'll work with the Foreman, Pipelayer, and equipment operators to ensure pipe, bedding, tools, and other materials are ready when the crew needs them. This is an opportunity for someone with loader and pipe crew experience who is willing to work both in the equipment and on the ground while building a long-term career in heavy civil construction.

• Safely operate a front end loader to transport, load, and distribute pipe, bedding, backfill, and other materials for underground utility installation.
• Load, unload, and stage pipe, fittings, tools, and materials in coordination with the Foreman.
• Support back filling, trench preparation, and material handling while maintaining awareness of crew positioning and active work areas.
• Follow hand signals and maintain clear communication with ground personnel and other equipment operators.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and pre-operation checks, and report maintenance needs.

• Supply materials, tools, and equipment to the trench to support the pipe installation crew.
• Measure and cut pipe to required lengths and assist with pre-assembly on the hill.
• Mix mortar for brick-up of manholes and assist with joint preparation.
• Use cutoff saws, wrenches, tampers, pumps, lasers, levels, and other tools as needed.
• Assist with layout, accurate measurements, and grade and slope checks.
• Perform hands-on crew support and labor tasks as needed in addition to operating the loader.

• Assist with installing and maintaining dewatering systems, including sumps, Kelly wells, well points, and sock drains.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of work zones.
• Keep materials, tools, equipment, and work areas clean, organized, and ready for use.
• Support safe access, trench operations, and crew movement in active work areas.

• Work closely with the Foreman, Pipelayer, and equipment operators to support safe, efficient production.
• Maintain awareness of trench safety, rigging and hoisting practices, crew positioning, and equipment movement.
• Follow crew direction and communicate promptly when materials, equipment, or work conditions need attention.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support field operations.

• Minimum 6 months of experience operating a front end loader on an underground utility pipe crew required.
• Hands-on pipe crew experience supporting water, sewer, or storm utility installation.
• Experience loading and staging pipe, bedding, and backfill in tight work zones.
• Basic understanding of safe trenching, rigging, hoisting, and underground utility construction practices.
• Ability to read grade stakes, perform basic construction math, take accurate measurements, and assist with grade and slope checks.
• Ability to follow hand signals, crew direction, and safe equipment operating practices.
• Willingness to perform both loader operation and hands-on Hillman duties as the work requires.
• Dependable, team-oriented, and willing to learn and develop additional construction skills.

• Competent Person, Confined Space, and Equipment Inspection training required, or the ability to obtain the required training.
• Fire extinguisher training preferred.

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and squat for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 70 pounds.
• Ability to work in and around trenches and safely around heavy construction equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions across active construction jobsites.

We live our values (A.C.T.):

Accountability – Safety first. Plan the work. Execute with ownership.

Character – Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility.

Team – Shared goals, servant leadership,…