Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description

Job Title:

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator - Underground Utilities)

Job Description

This position focuses on operating excavators for trenching and supporting the installation of storm, sewer, and water pipe systems as part of an underground utility crew. You will work closely with pipelayers and site leadership to ensure safe, precise, and efficient trench excavation, pipe placement, and backfill operations while maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality standards.

• Operate excavators to dig trenches to the specified depth, slope, and alignment for storm, sewer, and water pipe installations.
• Safely drag, position, and set trench boxes in accordance with site safety requirements and regulatory standards.
• Assist in pipe installation by accurately positioning and lowering pipe and related materials into the trench.
• Coordinate closely with pipelayers, runners, and site leadership to ensure proper pipe placement, alignment, and grade.
• Read and interpret grade stakes and site plans to guide trenching and excavation work.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance to keep excavators and related equipment in safe working condition.
• Maintain constant awareness of underground utilities and adhere to trench safety protocols at all times.
• Support backfill operations, compaction, and site cleanup as needed to restore work areas and maintain an organized jobsite.
• Contribute to meeting project deadlines by working efficiently and supporting the crew in achieving production and quality goals.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines while working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating excavators in underground utility work.
• Proven experience working with storm, sewer, or water main systems.
• Strong understanding of trenching techniques and pipe installation requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes and site plans.
• Familiarity with trench box setup and safe operation around trench protection systems.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety standards related to trenching and excavation.
• Demonstrated ability to operate excavators safely and efficiently in close proximity to crew members and existing utilities.
• Capability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including cold and extreme heat.

• Experience coordinating with pipelayers and runners on underground utility projects.
• Hands‑on experience supporting backfill operations and trench restoration.
• Exposure to operating additional heavy equipment such as dozers for trench digging and site work.
• Ability to assist in leading or supporting a crew toward project deadlines and completion dates.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a field crew.

You will join a team that is expanding into a new office serving a growing regional market, offering significant opportunities for advancement and long‑term career development. The organization promotes a culture of growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement, giving you the chance to help shape a developing operation while building your skills and responsibilities over time.

This role is field‑based and involves working outdoors in all weather conditions, including cold and extreme heat. You will primarily operate excavators and may work around other heavy equipment such as dozers on active construction sites. The work centers on trench excavation, trench box use, and underground utility installation, requiring consistent adherence to safety procedures and OSHA standards. You will collaborate closely with pipelayers, runners, and site leadership in a fast‑paced, production‑focused environment where proper use of personal protective equipment and appropriate work attire suitable for outdoor construction work is expected.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint George, SC.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $32.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & A