Backhoe Operator - Pipe Crew

amesconstruction; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Ames Construction seeks an experienced backhoe operator to support underground utility and pipe work. You will excavate trenches, grade, and backfill while reading grade stakes, site plans, and blueprints to ensure accurate installation.

Safety is essential as you coordinate with pipe crews, perform daily equipment inspections, and follow OSHA regulations. The role requires reliable transportation to multiple job sites and a dependable, team‑oriented work style.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating a backhoe (preferably in underground utility or pipe work).
• Experience working on pipe crews (water, sewer, storm) preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, site plans, and blueprints.
• Strong understanding of trench safety and excavation practices.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
• Reliable transportation to job sites.

Responsibilities

• Operate backhoe equipment to excavate trenches for underground utilities (water, sewer, storm drain)
• Safely perform trenching, grading, and backfilling operations
• Maintain proper trench depth, alignment, and grade according to project plans
• Work in coordination with pipe layers and crew members to ensure efficient installation
• Identify and avoid underground utilities and hazards
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and job site requirements
• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Assist crew with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required

Skills

Backhoe operation

Teamwork

Blueprint reading

Trench safety

Job description

Ames Construction has been building America for more than 60 years, and our people are the reason we continue to succeed.

We are a full-service, heavy civil and industrial contractor building critical infrastructure, including highways, bridges, mines, dams, rail, and more. Our teams take on challenging projects that keep communities safe, supply chains moving, and the country connected.

At Ames, we are Fueled by Family . That means we look out for one another, take pride in our work, and build strong relationships rooted in trust and respect.

Guided by our core values of People, Team, Our Bond, Persistence, and Vision , we do what we say we will do, push through challenges, and deliver work we're proud of.

When you join Ames, you're joining a company built for long-term success, where skilled people, strong teams, and disciplined execution come together to build careers and a better future.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate backhoe equipment to excavate trenches for underground utilities (water, sewer, storm drain)
• Safely perform trenching, grading, and backfilling operations
• Maintain proper trench depth, alignment, and grade according to project plans
• Work in coordination with pipe layers and crew members to ensure efficient installation
• Identify and avoid underground utilities and hazards
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and job site requirements
• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Assist crew with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating a backhoe (preferably in underground utility or pipe work)
• Experience working on pipe crews (water, sewer, storm) preferred
• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, site plans, and blueprints
• Strong understanding of trench safety and excavation practices
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment
• Reliable transportation to job sites

Ames Construction is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.