Construction Laborer

Mcaninch Corp.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 28,901 - 41,163; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% paid health/dental/vision insurance

Pension dues covered

$500 sign-on bonus after 90 days

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Job summary

A leading utility contractor in Des Moines is seeking entry-level crew members for installing underground utilities. This hands-on role involves preparing materials, operating tools, and maintaining safety on-site. Ideal candidates will be trained and developed into leaders in the construction industry. The job offers a competitive hourly wage of $25.43 plus overtime, with benefits and a sign-on bonus after 90 days. Reliability and a strong work ethic are essential for success in this outdoor position.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Reliable transportation to job sites is required.
• Valid driver’s license preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the installation of underground utilities.
• Prepare materials for installation.
• Operate hand and power tools.

Skills

Experience using basic hand tools and power tools

Reliable attendance

Strong work ethic

Ability to manage time effectively

Commitment to safety and quality

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Heavy equipment

Job description

Who Are We?

McAninch Corporation is a leader in the grading and underground utility industry. We are an employee‑owned company that has been recognized as an Iowa Top Workplace for the last 8 years. We partner with a wide variety of clients to provide mass grading, underground wet and dry utilities, excavation, and backfill services for residential and industrial construction projects in Iowa and Eastern Nebraska.

Position Description:

We are seeking motivated, hard‑working individuals to join our underground utilities team as entry‑level crew members. This position installs wet utility systems for water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater systems. Laborers prepare materials, cut various types of pipe to length, connect rigging, maintain site cleanliness, and serve as a safety spotter. We are willing to train the right candidate who is dependable, punctual, safety‑focused, and eager to learn a trade! This is a hands‑on, outdoor role offering long‑term growth opportunities for individuals with a strong work ethic and willingness to develop new skills in the construction industry.

Laborers will participate in a training program for the first two weeks where you will be evaluated on your safety practices & knowledge, attendance, work ethic, and ability to think critically. Our goal is to develop laborers into leaders on the job site as a pipelayer.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Follow all company, OSHA, and site‑specific safety policies and procedures.
• Support the installation of underground utilities for water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater systems. Assist Pipelayer and Foreman with installation as directed.
• Prepare materials for installation, such as cutting pipes to length, connecting fittings, sealing joints, and staging materials.
• Operate hand and power tools such as tape measures, quickie‑saws, pipe cutters, pipe wrenches, and shovels.
• Secure rigging for large sections of pipe, ensuring all safety requirements are met.
• Operate heavy equipment including skid loader, roller, and compactor excavator.
• Anticipate operational needs to ensure productive and efficient work.
• Proactively participate in daily PTPs and ensure daily inspections are completed and reported.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard‑free work area.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old. High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience using basic hand tools and power tools preferred.
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and strong work ethic required.
• Availability to work 10-12 hours a day, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend overtime.
• Must be available to travel across Iowa and Eastern Nebraska.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from job sites and the ability to travel as projects are awarded.
• Ability to manage time effectively, follow direction, and work as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety and quality.
• Valid driver’s license preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to independently lift and carry up to 50 lb. frequently.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend/squat, kneel, and twist on a frequent basis. Occasionally crawl.
• Ability to climb ladders in and out of trenches and walk on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors 100% of the time, including in hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• This position may require some sedentary duty.
• $25.43 per hour with overtime paid after 40 hours per week. Laborers in the Utility Division are eligible for a $500 sign on bonus after 90 days of employment.
• 100% paid benefits, including health/dental/vision insurance premiums and pension dues, as provided by the Local 177 Laborers Union.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that awards shares in McAninch Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.