Excavator Operator | Underground

Duininck is a fourth-generation, 100-year family-led company focused on building strong communities through our relationships with customers, employees, subcontractors and vendors. We have a diverse portfolio of businesses managing projects at any scale.

From highways and municipal projects to commercial developments, excavation, underground utilities, and paving, we take pride in shaping the infrastructure that helps the communities we work in thrive. Our work is about more than construction; it's about supporting the communities where we live and work, creating opportunities for growth on our crews, and building lasting value for generations to come.

This seasonal, full-time position comes with a strong benefits package including:

• Competitive pay range of $30 to $45 per hour, based on experience

• Paid Time Off

• Per Diem (when applicable)

• Strong Health Plans to choose from

• Dental & Vision Plans, Company Paid Life insurance & Short-Term Disability

• Position specific personal protective equipment provided

• 401K with company match, and more!

This position with the Duininck Construction Underground team offers the opportunity to operate heavy equipment in trenching and utility installation environments, supporting safe operations, material movement, and quality compaction on a variety of projects.

The Role:

• Perform daily inspections and fluid checks; ensure equipment is in proper and safe operating condition.
• Excavate trenches while following all trench safety regulations, often working around personnel in the trench.
• Operate excavation equipment with precision around utility lines to prevent damage and ensure crew safety.
• Change tools/buckets as needed for trench dimensions and soil conditions.
• Place and remove trench boxes safely and efficiently.
• Maneuver, connect, and align pipe sections by sliding or pulling pipes together.
• Safely place, move, and set manholes in trenches.
• Coordinate work using hand signals and clear communication with crew members.
• Maintain clean, organized equipment and prepare machines for transport when required.
• Maintain an orderly, clean, and safe jobsite.
• Follow supervisor instructions and complete tasks accurately and efficiently.

Work Environment:

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Walk, bend, kneel, lift, stretch, and sit for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Regularly work extended or overtime hours depending on project needs.
• Travel throughout Central & Western Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and the Eastern Dakotas.

What we Look For:

• Knowledge of trench safety procedures and OSHA requirements.
• Understanding of PPE standards and safe equipment operation.
• Awareness of MSHA/OSHA safety regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and safety, especially around buried utilities and trench work.
• Ability to communicate effectively and coordinate with crews.
• Willingness to travel and work extended hours during the construction season.
• Unwavering focus on safety.

Not sure you meet all the requirements? Apply to learn more!

Duininck is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetics, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or citizenship status. If you would like more information on your EEO rights under the law, click here.