Service Trenching Operator​/Groundman

About Us

Welcome to United Utility Services, a dynamic player in the electric utility industry. As a trailblazer, we provide comprehensive and innovative offerings that bolster power infrastructure investments across the U.S. We proudly serve as the parent company to industry-leading utility service contractors specializing in transmission, substation, distribution, and grid hardening projects. Our Core Values are clear and simple:
Safety, Quality, Integrity, and Professionalism. At United Utility Services, we craft power delivery solutions – built safe, engineered smart, and driven by what customers demand – fueling communities with reliable energy. We are the best-in-class, trusted partner delivering customer-centric Power Delivery Construction and Engineering solutions.

Date Posted: 8/28/2026 Minimum Date Posted: 9/04/2026

Location:

Northern Mississippi

The salary range for this position is $18-$29 hourly. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and overall fit for the role.

• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance;
  Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options where applicable; 401(k) with company match; paid time off; company-paid holidays; and short and long-term disability.

The Service Trenching Operator/Groundman is responsible for operating trenching and excavation equipment while assisting crews in the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground electric utility infrastructure. This position supports daily construction activities by safely operating equipment, performing manual labor, handling materials, maintaining tools and equipment, and assisting with utility service installations. The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, quality workmanship, and customer service.

• Operate trenchers, mini excavators, backhoes, skid steers, and other construction equipment.
• Excavate trenches for underground electric, communication, and utility service installations.
• Perform potholing and expose existing utilities using approved methods.
• Assist with back filling, compaction, grading, and site restoration activities.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete required maintenance checks.
• Report equipment defects, maintenance needs, and safety concerns immediately.

• Assist crews with the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground utility systems.
• Load, unload, transport, and stage materials, tools, and equipment.
• Assist with pulling cable, setting vaults, conduit installation, and service connections.
• Hand-dig around existing utilities and sensitive areas as required.
• Perform traffic control and jobsite setup activities.
• Maintain tools, equipment, vehicles, and work areas in a clean and safe condition.
• Follow direction from Foremen, Equipment Operators, and Crew Leaders.

• Follow all OSHA, company, and customer safety requirements.
• Participate in daily job briefings, tailboards, and safety meetings.
• Identify and avoid underground utility conflicts before excavation begins.
• Utilize proper personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Maintain awareness of excavation, trenching, grounding, and shoring requirements.
• Support emergency outage response and storm restoration efforts when required.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to safely operate trenching or excavation equipment.
• Ability to perform physically demanding construction work.
• Basic understanding of underground utility construction practices.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• CDL Class A or Class B license.
• Previous electric utility, telecommunications, pipeline, or underground construction experience.
• Experience operating trenchers, backhoes, mini excavators, and skid steers.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Utility locating experience.

• Knowledge of excavation and trench safety requirements.
• Ability to read construction prints, staking sheets,…