Laborer (Underground Utilities / Data Center Construction)

Laborer - Underground Utilities / Data Center Construction

Department:

Field Operations - Civil / Underground Utilities

Reports To:

Foreman / Superintendent

Location:

Columbus & New Albany, OH

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt / Hourly

Position Summary

The Laborer supports underground utility, trenching, and duct-bank installation crews by performing a variety of physical and semi-skilled tasks on active construction sites. This position works closely with equipment operators and foremen to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality installation of underground infrastructure for data-center and large-scale site development projects. The Laborer must demonstrate strong safety awareness, teamwork, and reliability in fast-paced construction environments.

Key Responsibilities

Site & Utility Support

- Assist in trenching, pipe laying, duct-bank, and vault installation.
- Prepare, clean, and maintain work areas, trenches, and equipment.
- Hand-grade, backfill, and compact soil using shovels, tampers, or compactors.
- Help set trench boxes, slide-rail systems, and shoring equipment.
- Install conduit spacers, tracer wire, and encasement for electrical and communication duct banks.
- Support concrete encasement and formwork placement under supervision.
- Spot and communicate with heavy equipment operators during excavation and backfilling.

Safety & Compliance

- Follow all company safety policies and OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) standards.
- Attend daily safety briefings and Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) meetings.
- Use required PPE and maintain awareness of equipment and excavation zones.
- Immediately report unsafe conditions or potential hazards to supervision.
- Assist with traffic control, barricading, and trench protection setup.

Equipment & Material Handling

- Load, unload, and organize materials, tools, and equipment.
- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of tools and small equipment.
- Operate hand and small power tools safely (e.g., cutoff saws, compactors, pumps).
- Assist in verifying measurements, grades, and alignment.

Teamwork & Productivity

- Work cooperatively under direction of foremen and operators.
- Maintain productivity standards while ensuring quality workmanship.
- Support multiple phases of work and adapt to changing site conditions.
- Uphold company values for safety, respect, and professionalism on every job site.

Qualifications

Required:

- 1+ years of experience in underground utilities, site development, or general construction.
- Knowledge of trenching, shoring, and safe excavation practices.
- Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions in English.
- Reliable transportation to job sites within the Columbus / New Albany region.
- Willingness to comply with drug testing and safety requirements.
- Strong work ethic, punctuality, and commitment to teamwork.

Preferred:

- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification.
- Experience supporting data-center or mission-critical infrastructure projects.
- Familiarity with duct-bank installation, conduit alignment, or vault work.
- Competent Person or trench safety training (a plus).

Physical Requirements

- Ability to perform physical labor for extended periods (8-10 hours/day).
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
- Must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment

- Outdoor construction sites with exposure to dirt, dust, noise, and heavy equipment.
- May require overtime, weekends, or night work depending on project schedule.
- Projects primarily located in Columbus and New Albany, Ohio.

Compensation & Benefits

- Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
- Overtime opportunities.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid holidays and time off.
- Career advancement and training opportunities.