Equipment Operator

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

Job summary

Power Design, Inc. is hiring a skilled Equipment Operator to support electrical and utility installations on commercial sites. You will operate excavators, skid steers, and backhoes for trenching, grading, and foundation work while strictly following safety protocols and project plans.

The role requires 5+ years of experience, ability to read blueprints, and a valid driver’s license. OSHA 10/30 certification is preferred; we emphasize safety and teamwork on a national services footprint.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience operating excavators and heavy equipment on commercial construction sites.
• Ability to read blueprints and utility layouts.
• Strong safety mindset and attention to detail.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, skid steers, backhoes, and other heavy equipment for trenching, grading, and foundation work.
• Excavate around underground utilities and structures following plans and safety protocols.
• Read construction documents, utility markings, and site layouts.
• Perform daily inspections and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Collaborate with field leadership, electricians, and trades to complete tasks safely and on schedule.

Skills

Equipment operation

Blueprint reading

Safety mindset

Trench safety

Attention to detail

Education

OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification

Tools

Loader

Compactor

Trencher

Excavator

Job description

Position SummaryWe’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 ResponsibilitiesOperate 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 Qualifications5+ 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 QualificationsOSHA 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 hourlyAt Power Design, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Power Design believes that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is paramount to our success as a national company, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool nationwide