EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

D&F Industries, Inc.; McAllen (TX); On-site; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Insurance after 60 days

401(k) with match

PTO

OT opportunities

Safety gear supplied

Home nightly

Job summary

D&F Industries, Inc. seeks a Heavy Equipment Operator to prepare sites for commercial construction in the Rio Grande Valley.

You will operate excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and skid steers to dig trenches, clear pathways, and grade areas for conduits and duct banks, following specs and strict safety rules. You must read utility flags, load and move materials, perform pre‑op inspections, and uphold OSHA standards.

Qualifications

• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen.
• Minimum OSHA 10-Hour certification preferred.
• Equipment operator certifications preferred, but willing to certify the right candidate.
• Proven ability to dig to exact grade requirements and navigate tight commercial job sites.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavator, backhoe, trencher, skid steer, or mini-excavator safely.
• Excavate trenches, ditches, and pits for underground electrical conduits, vaults, and duct banks according to specifications.
• Read utility flags and stakes to prevent damage to existing underground utilities.
• Load, unload, and move electrical materials, concrete structures, conduits, and reels.
• Backfill trenches, compact soil, and grade work areas to original specifications after electrical lines are placed.
• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections, fluid checks, and preventative maintenance.
• Perform other project related duties assigned by General Contractor, Superintendent, Foreman or Senior Electrician when machines are not in use.

Skills

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Time management

Outdoor work

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Electrical safety basics

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

In this role, you will operate heavy machinery to prepare sites for commercial construction, including digging trenches for conduit, excavating for substations, and clearing pathways for commercial power distribution. The ideal candidate should work from a position of "Safety First Always" and utilize all safety equipment and training provided to ensure compliance with OSHA and other safety regulations.

Benefits

• Competitive pay (weekly)
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life & other insurances available (after 60 days of service)
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match available (after 1 year of service)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Overtime opportunities available
• Company-provided safety gear and ongoing training
• Home every night (work is ONLY in the RGV)

Core Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavator, backhoe, trencher, skid steer, or mini-excavator
• Excavate trenches, ditches, and pits for underground electrical conduits, vaults, and duct banks according to specifications
• Read and interpret utility flags and stakes to prevent damage to existing underground utilities
• Load, unload, and move electrical materials, concrete structures, conduits, and reels
• Backfill trenches, compact soil, and grade work areas to original specifications after electrical lines are placed
• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections, fluid checks, and preventative maintenance
• Perform other project related duties assigned by General Contractor, Superintendent, Foreman or Senior Electrician when machines are not in use

Desired Qualifications

• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years heavy equipment operation experience, specifically within commercial civil, utility, or electrical construction
• Understanding of OSHA excavation standards, trench sloping, shoring protocols, and "Call Before You Dig" (811) processes
• Minimum OSHA 10-Hour certification preferred
• Equipment operator certifications preferred, but willing to certify the right candidate
• Proven ability to dig to exact grade requirements and navigate tight commercial job sites

Essential Skills

• Basic understanding of electrical safety principals and concepts
• Ability to accept constructive criticism, follow directions and collaborate effectively as part of a team
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions, lift up to 50 lbs, and stand or sit for long periods
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety