Distribution Underground Equipment Operator - Sumter, SC

ISA Certified Arborist; Sumter, Northern (SC, KY); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Job summary

XKIG is seeking an Underground Equipment Operator in Sumter, SC to join our Operations team. You will assist in building, repairing, and maintaining underground electrical distribution systems as part of a safety‑driven crew.

Responsibilities include operating a mini excavator, inspecting PPE, and collaborating with line-workers to meet project objectives in all weather conditions. The role requires physical labor, willingness to travel, and overtime when needed.

Qualifications

• Must have a CDL Permit and the ability to obtain a CDL license within 90 days of hire.
• Minimum of 6 months experience operating a mini excavator.
• Able to read/write and communicate effectively.
• Able to travel long distances on short notice.
• Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
• Willing to work overtime when required.

Responsibilities

• Secure safety of yourself and others.
• Assist line-workers to meet project objectives.
• Join storm restoration efforts when needed.
• Operate vehicles and equipment in a professional manner.
• Continue training to improve technical and leadership skills.

Skills

CDL Permit

Mini Excavator

Communication

Travel Flexibility

Overtime Willingness

Tools

PPE inspection

Job description

Job Category: Operations

Requisition Number: DISTR019965

• Posted : September 30, 2026
• Full-Time
• On-site

Locations

Showing 1 location

Sumter, SC | Sumter, SC
Sumter, SC, USA

• Travel Required : Yes

Description

Department: Operations

Reports To: Foreman

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Purpose:

The Underground Equipment Operator position is your first step to a rewarding career in the construction and maintenance of our nation’s Power Grid. You will assist your team in building, repairing, and maintaining underground electrical distribution systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Securing the safety of yourself and others
• Assisting fellow line-workers in meeting project objectives
• Readily joining storm restoration efforts in times of need
• Operating vehicles and equipment in a professional manner
• Continuing training to improve technical and leadership skills

Tasks:

• Works safely while performing new construction, maintenance, or repair work of energized and de-energized underground work
• Efficiently operate a mini excavator
• Properly inspects rubber goods and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Understands when to wear personal protective equipment
• Maintains company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order
• Able to perform rigorous physical labor
• Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools
• Understands the basic concepts of equipment set up and grounding
• Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces
• Understands excavation and shoring requirements
• Capable of receiving and following directions
• Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather
• Does all other related work as required to complete the job

Physical Aspects:

• The physical demands described here are typical of those that must be met by a team-member to successfully perform the essential functions of their job in powerline construction.
• While performing the duties of this job, team-members are regularly required to talk or listen. The team-member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, and feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• The team-member is frequently required to perform rigorous physical labor; sit; climb different types of structures (wood, steel, etc.); or balance; and stoop, kneel crouch or crawl. Team-members frequently lift or move up to or in-excess of 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

While performing the duties of this job, team-members may frequently be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. Team-members are occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment can be loud. Powerline construction work is performed outside and is subject to diverse weather conditions.

• Team-Oriented
• Self-Motivated
• Customer Service Focused
• Ethical and Honest
• Dutifully follows established Safety Rules and Company Policy

Required Qualifications:

• Must have a CDL Permit and the ability to obtain a CDL license within 90 days of hire
• Must have a minimum of 6 months experience operating a mini excavator
• Able to read/write and communicate effectively
• Able to travel long distances at short notice, when required
• Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required
• Able to lift an excess 50 lbs.
• Willing to work overtime when requested

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, company-paid holidays, a 401(k) plan, and numerous voluntary benefits.

This is a safety sensitive position that requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Must meet I-9 requirements. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement: XKIG provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999 or 252-403-0552.

Benefits Offered:

This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO) Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer:

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.

Travel Required

Yes . Travel may be required during storms and emergencies.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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.