Backhoe Operator / Underground Utilities

branco; Warrensburg (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company

ESOP retirement plan

Paid holidays

Paid vacation

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Branco Enterprises, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Underground Utilities / Plumbing Technician to operate a backhoe, install water mains and service lines, and locate buried utilities in the Warrensburg area.

The role emphasizes safety, trench protection, and timely maintenance of piping systems. The position is field-based near Warrensburg, MO, with duties spanning digging, pipe installation, and on-site repairs.

Qualifications

• Able to perform backhoe excavation with underground utilities present.
• Dependable attendance and ability to work independently per schedules.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform strenuous labor.
• Carry basic personal tools and follow written/verbal instructions.

Responsibilities

• Operate Caterpillar 420 backhoe to excavate or move dirt.
• Install and maintain water mains and service lines.
• Ensure trench safety per OSHA standards.
• Locate utilities prior to digging using DigRite markings.
• Participate in on-call response with incentive pay.

Skills

Backhoe operation

Safety-focused

Lift up to 50 lbs

Carrying basic personal tools

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CDL-A preferred

Dig Rite markings knowledge

Job description

UNDERGROUND UTILITIES / PLUMBING TECHNICIAN

Company Overview

Branco Enterprises, Inc. is a leading construction company in the Midwest with offices in Neosho and Springfield, Missouri. Founded in 1933, Branco delivers high-quality commercial, civil, and industrial construction projects with a strong commitment to safety, craftsmanship, and long-term value. Branco Enterprises Inc. is 100% employee owned.

Work Location

Vicinity of Warrensburg, Missouri

Position Summary

Backhoe excavation, installation, and repair of underground water and sewer mains, service lines, and drain piping.

Key Responsibilities

• Operates Caterpillar 420 backhoe to excavate or move dirt, rock, sand, gravel and other materials
• Install, and maintain water mains and service lines
• Backhoe operator is responsible for the safe operation of all assigned equipment.
• May drive machine on roadways to workplace, lift and move materials and objects, and operate according to signals from others.
• Locate utilities and other buried lines prior to digging utilizing DigRite identification markings
• Locate and identify all underground utilities by means of hand-digging, shovel or vac-system.
• The operator will ensure that all trench safety is applied according to OSHA standards.
• Each operator is responsible for general maintenance of assigned equipment such as greasing and maintaining all fluid levels.
• Performs a variety of non-machine tasks such as removing forms, placing the pipe in the trench, jack-hammering and tapping.
• Responsible for safe slopes on excavations and proper barricading
• Performs other duties which may be assigned by a Branco superintendent or supervisor
• Locate and repair underground water leaks and drain pipes
• Install underground piping including PVC, cast iron, and ductile iron
• Participate in on-call response as needed (incentive pay available)

Required Qualifications

• Must be capable of excavation with underground utilities present, such as Water, Electric, Gas, Fiber Optic or Telephone.
• Dependable attendance and ability to work independently per schedules
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and heavier loads with assistance; ability to perform strenuous labor
• Carry basic personal tools
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of backhoe experience
• Experience excavating around live utilities
• Knowledge of Missouri One Call (Dig Rite) markings
• Valid driver’s license, CDL-A preferred
• OSHA 10-hour Construction Card (training available)
• Plumbing experience/license beneficial (not required)

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

Field-based role in the vicinity of Warrensburg. Work may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, loud noises, and heavy equipment. The role requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and perform manual tasks. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier loads with assistance.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is based on experience. Branco offers a competitive benefits package that may include health insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, ESOP retirement plan, paid holidays, paid vacation, and opportunities for career advancement.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Branco Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.