Loader Operator / Hillman

Job Description

Job Description

Loader Operator / Hillman

Jacksonville, FL | Full-Time | Hourly

At Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc., we don't just build infrastructure — we build life-changing infrastructure. We are a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contracting firm based in Jacksonville, FL.

We specialize in public works, water resources (including water and wastewater treatment plants), and site development, with expertise in underground utilities, roadway construction, and related civil infrastructure.

We are seeking a dependable Loader Operator / Hillman to support our underground utility pipe crews. This combined role includes operating a front end loader, staging and delivering materials, and performing hands-on ground support that keeps pipe installation moving safely and efficiently.

You'll work with the Foreman, Pipelayer, and equipment operators to ensure pipe, bedding, tools, and other materials are ready when the crew needs them. This is an opportunity for someone with loader and pipe crew experience who is willing to work both in the equipment and on the ground while building a long-term career in heavy civil construction.

What You'll Do Loader Operation & Material Handling

• Safely operate a front end loader to transport, load, and distribute pipe, bedding, backfill, and other materials for underground utility installation.
• Load, unload, and stage pipe, fittings, tools, and materials in coordination with the Foreman.
• Support backfilling, trench preparation, and material handling while maintaining awareness of crew positioning and active work areas.
• Follow hand signals and maintain clear communication with ground personnel and other equipment operators.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and pre-operation checks, and report maintenance needs.

Hillman & Pipe Crew Support

• Supply materials, tools, and equipment to the trench to support the pipe installation crew.
• Measure and cut pipe to required lengths and assist with pre-assembly on the hill.
• Mix mortar for brick-up of manholes and assist with joint preparation.
• Use cutoff saws, wrenches, tampers, pumps, lasers, levels, and other tools as needed.
• Assist with layout, accurate measurements, and grade and slope checks.
• Perform hands-on crew support and labor tasks as needed in addition to operating the loader.

Dewatering & Jobsite Setup

• Assist with installing and maintaining dewatering systems, including sumps, Kelly wells, well points, and sock drains.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of work zones.
• Keep materials, tools, equipment, and work areas clean, organized, and ready for use.
• Support safe access, trench operations, and crew movement in active work areas.

Safety, Teamwork & Communication

• Work closely with the Foreman, Pipelayer, and equipment operators to support safe, efficient production.
• Maintain awareness of trench safety, rigging and hoisting practices, crew positioning, and equipment movement.
• Follow crew direction and communicate promptly when materials, equipment, or work conditions need attention.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support field operations.

What We're Looking For Experience & Skills

• Minimum 6 months of experience operating a front end loader on an underground utility pipe crew required.
• Hands-on pipe crew experience supporting water, sewer, or storm utility installation.
• Experience loading and staging pipe, bedding, and backfill in tight work zones.
• Basic understanding of safe trenching, rigging, hoisting, and underground utility construction practices.
• Ability to read grade stakes, perform basic construction math, take accurate measurements, and assist with grade and slope checks.
• Ability to follow hand signals, crew direction, and safe equipment operating practices.
• Willingness to perform both loader operation and hands-on Hillman duties as the work requires.
• Dependable, team-oriented, and willing to learn and develop additional construction skills.

Training & Certifications

• Competent Person, Confined Space, and Equipment Inspection training required, or the ability to obtain the required training.
• Fire extinguisher training preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, and squat for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to 70 pounds.
• Ability to work in and around trenches and safely around heavy construction equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions across active construction jobsites.

Why Petticoat-Schmitt?

We live our values (A.C.T.):

Accountability – Safety first. Plan the work. Execute with ownership.

Character – Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility.

Team – Shared goals, servant leadership, determination, and results.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
• Earned Paid Time Off (PTO).
• 6 Paid Holidays.
• Annual Profit Sharing – participate in company-wide profit sharing once annual goals are achieved.
• Monthly Safety Bonus – earned when the company goes recordable-incident free.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage Options, including a 100% company-paid High Deductible Health Plan (employee-only coverage).
• Dental, vision, short/long-term disability, and accident coverage.
• Up to $50,000 employer-paid life insurance.
• 401(k) with 100% company match on the first 4%.
• Ongoing training, development, and advancement opportunities.

Work Schedule

• Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
• Full-time, hourly position.
• Hours may extend based on production and project needs; overtime is possible but not guaranteed.
• Occasional Saturdays as needed; Sundays off.

Location

• Based in Jacksonville, FL, with work at active construction jobsites.
• Reliable transportation to and from jobsites required.
• Willingness to travel within a 70-mile radius of Jacksonville, including Duval, Nassau, Clay, St. Johns, and surrounding counties.

What We Expect

• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Consistent, reliable, and predictable attendance.
• Professional appearance and conduct.
• Wear required PPE, including a hard hat, steel-toed boots, safety vest, and orange shirt.
• Follow jobsite safety requirements and communicate clearly with the crew.
• Take ownership of equipment checks, material readiness, and assigned responsibilities.
• Commitment to living Petticoat-Schmitt’s values of Accountability, Character, and Teamwork.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

About Petticoat-Schmitt

Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL since 2007, Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contracting firm. We specialize in public works, water resources (including water and wastewater treatment plants), and site development, with expertise in underground utilities, roadway construction, and related civil infrastructure.

Agency Disclaimer

Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or third-party recruiters. Any unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Petticoat-Schmitt, and no fees will be paid for such submissions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.