Equipment Operator

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Mini Excavator Operator to join our plumbing repair team. In this hands-on role, you will operate a mini excavator (and occasionally other small equipment) to safely excavate trenches, expose underground utilities, and support plumbers in the repair, replacement, and installation of residential water service lines, sewer laterals, and related plumbing systems. This position combines heavy equipment operation with fieldwork in a fast-paced service environment, where precision, utility awareness, and crew coordination are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate a mini excavator (and related equipment such as skid steers or backhoes when needed) to dig precise trenches, expose existing water and sewer lines, remove soil, and backfill after repairs.
• Locate and pothole underground utilities (using locate marks, hand digging) to prevent damage during excavation.
• Work closely with licensed plumbers and crew members to support water line repairs, sewer line replacements, leak fixes, cleanouts, and new service installations.
• Maintain proper grade, alignment, and depth according to project specifications and plumber instructions.
• Perform daily pre- and post-operation inspections of the mini excavator, including checking fluids, tracks, hydraulics, attachments, and reporting any maintenance needs.
• Load/unload equipment onto trailers, secure loads for transport, and drive company vehicles/trailers to and from job sites (when qualified).
• Assist with hand labor tasks as needed, including shoveling, material handling, site cleanup, and minor site restoration.
• Follow all OSHA, company, and utility safety protocols, including trench safety, PPE usage, and traffic control when working in roadways or rights-of-way.
• Maintain accurate daily logs of work performed, equipment usage, and any incidents.
• Keep job sites clean, organized, and professional to represent the company positively to customers.

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience (minimum 2–3 years preferred) safely operating mini excavators (preferably 3–8 ton class machines) in tight residential settings.
• Experience excavating around underground utilities (water, sewer, gas, electric) with a strong understanding of safe digging practices and damage prevention.
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record; CDL (Class B or better) is a plus.
• Ability to read basic blueprints, locate tickets, and understand grade stakes/simple measurements.
• Physical ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, lift up to 50–75 lbs, and perform manual labor tasks.
• Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and ability to work effectively in a small crew.
• Commitment to safety and customer service excellence.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in plumbing, sewer/water line repair, or underground utility construction.
• OSHA 10-hour Construction certification or trench safety training.
• Familiarity with hydro/vacuum excavation equipment or hand tools commonly used in plumbing repairs.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment troubleshooting and minor field maintenance.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience ($25-$35/hour) plus overtime opportunities.
• Health insurance, retirement plan options, paid time off, and tool allowance (after probation).
• Company-provided uniforms, PPE, and state-of-the-art mini excavator and support equipment.
• Ongoing training and potential advancement to lead operator, crew supervisor, or plumbing technician roles.
• Year-round work with a stable, growing plumbing service company.

If you are a reliable, detail-oriented equipment operator who takes pride in precise work and safe job sites, we want to hear from you!