Equipment Operator

Power Design, Inc.; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Training opportunities

Career development

Safety-first culture

Relocation opportunities

Job summary

Power Design, Inc. is seeking an Equipment Operator with 5+ years of experience to safely operate excavators and other heavy equipment on commercial construction sites, supporting electrical and utility installations.

You will read blueprints, perform trenching and site prep, conduct equipment inspections, and collaborate with electricians and field leaders to keep projects on schedule while maintaining a strong safety mindset.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience operating excavators and heavy equipment on commercial construction sites.
• Strong understanding of trench safety and excavation best practices.
• Ability to read blueprints and utility layouts.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• High attention to detail and a strong safety mindset.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (excavators, skid steers, backhoes) for trenching, grading, and foundations.
• Excavate safely around underground utilities and structures per plans and safety rules.
• Read and interpret construction documents, utility markings, and site layouts.
• Perform daily inspections and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Collaborate with field leadership, electricians, and other trades to stay on schedule.
• Follow OSHA and company safety procedures at all times.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Skills

Heavy equipment

Excavator operation

Blueprint reading

Safety mindset

License & transport

Job description

Position Summary

We’re looking for a highly skilled Equipment Operator with 5+ years of experience operating excavators and other heavy machinery on commercial construction sites. This role is essential to supporting our electrical and utility installations through safe and precise excavation and site prep work.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including excavators, skid steers, and backhoes, to perform trenching, grading, and foundation work.
• Excavate safely around underground utilities and existing structures, adhering to project plans and safety protocols.
• Read and interpret construction documents, utility markings, and site layouts.
• Conduct daily inspections and preventative maintenance checks on all assigned equipment.
• Work collaboratively with field leadership, electricians, and other trades to complete tasks efficiently and on schedule.
• Follow OSHA and company-specific safety procedures at all times.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience operating excavators and other heavy equipment on commercial construction sites.
• Strong understanding of trench safety and excavation best practices.
• Ability to read blueprints and utility layouts.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• High attention to detail and a strong safety mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
• Experience supporting electrical or utility installations.
• Proficiency with other equipment such as loaders, compactors, and trenchers.

Why Power Design?

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• A safety-first culture built on teamwork and trust.
• A company that values your experience and invests in your future.
• Competitive pay starting in the range of $ 25- 30 hourly

some of our benefits…

Power Design has national health and dental plans, and we also offer life insurance and short and long term disability plans. You’ll receive paid vacations and holidays as well as national discount programs for everything from movie tickets to flowers, rental cars, phones and vehicles! We also offer a 401(k) retirement plan as well as incentive and recognition programs. Relocation opportunities may also be available!