Utility Equipment Operator

Job Summary The Utilities Operator is a non‑exempt position responsible for digging trenches for pipe laying crews to set sewer and/or water supply lines. The Utilities Operator is knowledgeable with underground excavating procedures and ground grading. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Drive, operate and maneuver heavy equipment. Maintain knowledge of the operating equipment used in the construction, maintenance and repair of wet utilities, sewer and treatment or water supply and distribution read and interpret utilities blueprints to dig soil according to defined specifications. Maintain active awareness of surroundings near the equipment to maintain safe operation and distances from potential hazards such as underground utility lines, other equipment, and other workers. Coordinate machine functions with crew members in response to hand and audio signals. Maintain familiarity with and understanding of utilities workflow of duties and team coordination with other trades. Monitor operations to ensure that health and safety standards are met. Responsible for pre and post checks of equipment, daily maintenance and keeping the equipment clean and ready for daily operation. Keep records for material and equipment usage and any problems encountered. Must have the initiative, ability, and willingness to perform and assist with other job positions for job completion as requested. Maintain attendance at work, including presence at work during regular work hours or other schedules as may be assigned. Acceptance of overtime assignments will also be required based on operational needs. Experience & Requirements The ideal candidate will have 2 or more years of experience in the safe and efficient use of operating heavy equipment. General knowledge and understanding of excavating practices and locate requirements. Must demonstrate excellent safety awareness, and a willingness to comply with company policies and safety standards. Must be able to work with others to achieve company results; have the ability to think critically to analyze information and make sound decisions. Effective communication with other operators, truck drivers and general laborers is critical, both verbally and nonverbally; this includes the ability to listen to the ideas of others. Must have reliable transportation to be at work when scheduled and have the ability to travel. Periodic weekends and overtime hours are expected. Must be able to adapt and adjust to changing situations and priorities with a positive attitude. Must wear proper attire at all times including safety vests, hard hat, safety glasses when appropriate, long pants, hard sole/close‑toed shoes, and reflect a clean and presentable image. Continuous mental and visual attention is necessary to safely and effectively complete work tasks. Working Conditions This job requires the ability to lift, pull, and push up to 50 lbs; bend, stoop, kneel, reach, squat, twist, and climb heavy equipment several times throughout the day, and balance at heights up to 6 feet from ground level. In addition, you must have the ability to be on your feet regularly and use hands, arms, and legs repeatedly on the job. This includes frequently walking on sloped ground and slippery and uneven surfaces, as well as working in confined areas. Operators are subject to continuous bouncing, shaking and equipment vibration throughout the course of their shift. This job requires the ability to sit, stand and ride in vehicles for long periods of time, as well as the physical ability and mobility to access equipment, modify attachments and control cabin. This job requires the ability to perform essential tasks in less than favorable conditions. These may include but are not limited to: Performing strenuous work in varying temperatures, humidity, sand, wind, or other extreme inclement weather conditions for extended periods of time. Work may be performed in an environment with exposure to extremely hot materials, fuel fumes, vapors, dust, grease, and oils, as well as loud and/or constant noise and exposure to moving equipment. The normal work hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 5:30pm, with some required overtime on Saturday. We provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan. In addition to financial security, we prioritize the well‑being of our team members by offering paid time off, paid holidays, a safe work environment, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). We believe that by investing in our employees’ health, wellness, and safety, we can cultivate a motivated and dedicated workforce, leading to the overall success and growth of our company. Employees are expected to follow all OSHA and company policies to minimize accidents and injuries to personnel and property. Pay range is based on experience. Job sites are located within a 70 mile radius of the greater Savannah area. By applying for this job opening, you acknowledge our operation radius and understand your commute could reach up to one (1) hour. Teammates are asked to move job sites as project needs change. All applicants who a conditional offer of employment is made shall undergo and pass pre‑employment screening, including a drug test prior to beginning work. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr