Bore Operator - Utilities

LJA Engineering, Inc.; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous PTO

Paid holidays

Health and dental coverage

Parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Referral bonuses

Volunteer days

Professional development

Internal mobility

Job summary

LJA Engineering, Inc. is seeking a Bore Operator to support field operations across our utility projects. You will operate directional drills and Hydro-Vac/Vac-Tron equipment, comply with safety protocols, and assist daily field tasks.

A valid driver's license and at least 1 year of equipment experience are required, with travel to project sites and outdoor work as part of the role. The position offers growth, an employee-owned culture, competitive benefits, and opportunities to work with a

Qualifications

• Valid drivers license required; CDL preferred.
• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 1 year experience operating directional drills, Vac-Tron or Hydro-Vac.
• Knowledge of safety precautions for heavy equipment operation.
• Ability to lift up to 80 pounds.
• Must be 21+ and able to travel.
• Ability to read and decode job scope; locate facilities.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment (directional drills, Vac-Tron/Hydro-Vac).
• Load/unload equipment from transport vehicles.
• Follow safety procedures and use safety gear.
• Read job scope and locate neighboring facilities.

Skills

Machinery operation

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Willingness to travel

Reading job scope

Education

High school diploma or GED

Commercial Driver's License preferred

Tools

Vac-Tron

Hydro-Vac

Directional drills

Job description

LJA is offering an exciting opportunity that will allow you to reach your full career potential. The structure of our organization is designed to amplify your capabilities while gaining the benefits of being an employee-owner. What truly sets this opportunity apart is the chance to collaborate every day with dedicated, skilled, and supportive leaders. Whether you are in the office, in the field, or behind the scenes, working at LJA gives you the chance to grow through hands-on experience and exposure to a broad range of clients and services.

WHAT MAKES LJA DIFFERENT

At LJA, our employee-owners take pride in their work and their workplace. We’re guided by leaders who foster a culture of respect, collaboration and a shared vision of success. Our difference is evident in the experiences and opportunities we provide:

• Employee-owned. Client-focused
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Consistently ranked as a Top Workplace
• Internal recruitment team, in-house training, and a marketing department specific to our industry
• We celebrate flexibility, allowing every team and office to lead with their proven approach
• Our culture champions continuous learning and personal growth
• We believe success comes through constant evolution and communication
• We are passionate about having fun and making money, all while creating impact

POSITION OVERVIEW: As a Bore Operator at LJA Utilities, you will be responsible for operating heavy equipment such as directional drills and Hydro-Vacs, supporting daily field operations, and adhering strictly to safety procedures. Candidates must have at least one year of equipment experience, a valid driver’s license, and the physical ability to perform demanding outdoor work. Strong communication skills, the ability to build positive working relationships, and a willingness to travel are essential for success in this position.

A TYPICAL DAY MIGHT INCLUDE:

• Operating a variety of equipment to included but not limited to directional drills, Vac-Tron or Hyrdo-Vac
• Loading and unloading equipment from vehicles used for transport
• Following all safety requirements and using appropriate safety equipment and safety procedures in performing duties
• Ability to read and execute job scope accurately; correctly decode standard utility markings. Knowledge and ability to locate neighboring facilities

REQUIRED EDUCATION/LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid driver’s license required. Preferably a Commercial Driver’s License
• High school or GED

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum 1 year experience safely operating machinery to included but not limited to directional drills, Vac-Tron or Hyrdo-Vac
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and applicable safety precautions for heavy equipment operation; and traffic laws and regulations relating to the operation of assigned equipment.
• Must be able to bend, climb, and squat to perform job duties in the field.
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry materials and equipment weighing up to 80 pounds.
• Must have sufficient hand and finger dexterity to safely operate tools and equipment.
• Must be able to detect odors and fumes as necessary for safe work performance
• Must be able to walk, stand, and work outdoors for extended periods in various conditions.
• Must have adequate hearing and vision to perform duties safely and effectively.
• Must be 21 years or older to be considered for this position
• Must be willing and able to travel for project sites and team coordination

IDEALLY, YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE:

• Ability to build strong relationships.

LEVEL UP WITH LJA

At LJA, we’re 100% employee-owned. This drives results, rewards ambition and supports long-term success for every team member. With almost 100 locations and 3,000+ employee-owners (and growing) , we’re building something big! We want you to be part of it. Your future grows here.

• Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year’s.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets. Along with mental health support.
• Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave to help you focus on what matters most.
• Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses provided by our Learning and Development team .
• Referral Bonuses: Know great talent? Get rewarded for helping us grow.
• Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
• Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations to keep you connected and growing.
• Career Growth: Great internal mobility opportunities to advance your career.
• Fun Culture: LJA social events, employee sports teams, bring your kid to work day, etc.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.