Underground Equipment Operator

Job Description

Summary / Objective

As an Under Ground Equipment Operator, you play a critical role in supporting excavation and underground utility operations by safely operating heavy equipment to complete grading, excavation, and material handling tasks. This position requires a strong commitment to safety, precision, and teamwork to ensure projects are completed efficiently and on schedule.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Safely operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, and other machinery
• Perform excavation, grading, and material handling tasks with accuracy and efficiency
• Assist with snow removal operations, including plowing and salting as needed
• Conduct daily pre-operational equipment inspections and report any malfunctions or safety concerns
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of equipment, work areas, and work trucks
• Follow all company safety policies and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Comply with OSHA, MSHA, and environmental regulations
• Participate in safety meetings and ongoing training
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with crew members, foremen, and supervisors to ensure efficient project completion

Qualifications:

• Previous experience operating heavy equipment in construction or similar environments

• Proven experience operating large earthmoving equipment (excavators, dozers, rollers, scrapers, etc.) specifically in underground utility excavation environments

• Ability to operate equipment such as excavators, dozers, and loaders

• Strong understanding of safety practices and regulations

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Physical ability to perform job duties, including lifting and climbing

• Valid Driver’s License (CDL preferred or ability to obtain)

• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Completion of a recognized heavy equipment operator training program or relevant certifications/licenses is a plus

• Willingness to complete on-the-job training as required

Work Environment:

• Work is performed primarily outdoors with exposure to weather, dust, noise, and heavy equipment
• Local travel between job sites required; occasional out-of-town work may be necessary
• This position is classified as safety-sensitive

Physical Demands:

This position requires regular use of hands and arms to operate tools and equipment, frequent standing, and occasional walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Must be able to frequently lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 100 pounds.

Other Duties:

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties or responsibilities. Tasks and responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.

Dependent upon the achievement of certain employment status and eligibility requirements the company offers the following benefits:

• Hiring Bonus
• Career Pathway Mentorship
• 401(k) with Employer Match
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Health Insurance 100% Employer Paid for Qualified Employees
• Dental/Vision
• Paid Accommodations for Overnight Travel
• Subsistence Pay for Overnight Travel
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Owned-ESOP

This position is classified as safety-sensitive. First Rate Excavate provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, First Rate Excavate complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.