Civil & NDD Excavation Operator — Underground Power Projects

Watters Electrical; Greater Shepparton; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Pay

Income Protection

Skill Development

Varied Projects

Supportive Environment

Employee Discounts

Social Club

Well-Being Support

Job summary

Watters Electrical in Shepparton is seeking experienced Excavator and NDD Operators to support underground power and infrastructure projects across Regional Victoria. You will operate excavators, hydro excavation units, and vacuum trucks, exposing services safely while supporting construction teams.

The role requires a safety focus, ability to read plans, and a valid white card with a current license. Competitive pay and ongoing training are offered within a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 1+ year experience operating heavy machinery in construction (preferred).
• Proficiency with excavators, Hydrovac, and horizontal boring (highly desirable).
• Current construction white card (mandatory).
• Valid driver's license (mandatory); MR/HR license preferred.
• Service locating experience (highly regarded).
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specs.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, hydro excavation units, and vacuum trucks safely and efficiently.
• Excavate and expose underground electrical, telecommunications, gas, water, and sewer assets.
• Complete trenching, backfilling, service crossings, and final trim work.
• Support installation of conduits, pits, poles, kiosks, transformers, and electrical infrastructure.
• Read and interpret underground service plans, drawings, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with electrical crews, supervisors, and subcontractors to deliver outcomes.
• Perform daily pre-start inspections and basic maintenance of plant/equipment.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant worksite.
• Adhere to company, client, and regulatory safety requirements.

Skills

Excavator operation

Hydrovac

Horizontal boring

White card

Driver's license

MR/HR license

Service locating

Reading plans

Safety conscious

Team player

Tools

Vacuum trucks

Hydrovac equipment

Trenching gear

Job description

Civil and NDD Operators - Take Your Career to the Next Level with Watters Electrical!

Looking for your next big opportunity? Join the Watters Electrical team in Shepparton and make your mark in the dynamic electrical and civil industry. With the continuation of our contract with Powercor as the primary civil contractor, we're looking to grow our team of talented civil operators.

About Watters Electrical: With over 65 years of proven excellence, Watters Electrical is the leading electrical contracting company in Regional Victoria and Southern New South Wales. With branches in Shepparton, Wangaratta, and Albury, we proudly employ over 250 skilled professionals. As Powercor’s preferred contractor, our reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation is unmatched.

The Role: We are seeking experienced and motivated Excavator and Non-Destructive Digging (NDD) Operators to join the Civil and Electrical Construction team delivering underground power, utility, and infrastructure projects throughout Regional Victoria.

Working across a diverse range of projects, you will be involved in the construction and maintenance of underground power networks, supporting our internal electrical crews, and undertaking subcontract works for major network providers including Powercor.

This role is ideally suited to operators who take pride in precision excavation, have a strong safety focus, and understand the importance of working around live services and critical infrastructure. Operators will utilise both excavators and hydro excavation equipment to safely expose services, support construction activities, and ensure works are completed to a high standard.

Key Responsibilities:

Operate excavators, hydro excavation units, and vacuum trucks safely and efficiently

Excavate and expose underground electrical, telecommunications, gas, water, and sewer assets

Complete trenching, backfilling, service crossings, and final trim work

Support the installation of conduits, pits, poles, kiosks, transformers, and associated electrical infrastructure

Read and interpret underground service plans, construction drawings, and project documentation

Work closely with electrical crews, supervisors, and subcontractors to deliver project outcomes

Conduct daily pre-start inspections and basic maintenance of plant and equipment

Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant worksite

Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements

What We're Looking For:

At least 1 year of experience operating heavy machinery in a construction setting (preferred)

Proficiency with horizontal boring, Hydrovac, and excavators (highly desirable)

Current construction white card (mandatory)

Must have a valid driver's license (mandatory)

Current MR/HR truck license (preferred)

Service locating experience (highly regarded)

Ability to interpret construction plans and specifications (desirable)

Physical fitness and the ability to perform manual labour in all weather conditions

A strong work ethic, positive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a team environment

A commitment to workplace safety and quality standards

Why Choose Us?

At Watters Electrical, our people are at the core of everything we do. Here’s what you’ll enjoy:

Competitive Pay: Aligned with our Watters Electrical Pty. Ltd. 2024–2028 Enterprise Bargaining Agreement

Income Protection: Through the PROTECT employee income protection program

Skill Development: Paid training and opportunities to grow your career

Varied Projects: Get hands-on experience across a diverse range of exciting projects

Supportive Environment: Join a workplace where teamwork, inclusion, and camaraderie are celebrated

Employee Benefits & Discounts: Company Hub for recognition, rewards and employee discounts

Social Connections: Engage with our active Social Club enjoying regular activities including BBQs and social events

Well-Being Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program and a host of other employee benefits

How to Apply:

Are you ready to bring your expertise to a company that values your skills and ambition? Apply now via SEEK including a Cover Letter and Resume. Tell us why you’re the perfect fit and take the next step in your civil construction career with Watters Electrical!

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