Equipment Operator

Benchmark Utility Services; Thornburg (PA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking an Equipment Operator to perform excavation and earthmoving tasks for utility construction projects. The role focuses on operating medium to large excavators, trenching, pipe installation, and site preparation with emphasis on safety and productivity.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of experience in heavy equipment operation, a strong understanding of trench safety, and the ability to coordinate with crew members.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating excavation or heavy construction equipment.
• Proven ability to perform precision excavation near utilities and structures.
• Knowledge of trench safety, shoring, and excavation best practices.
• OSHA certification preferred.
• Valid drivers license and willingness to drive trucks.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders for trenching and backfill.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance.
• Follow trench safety standards and OSHA guidelines.
• Assist crew with trench prep, pipe installation, and site cleanup.
• Communicate with spotters and crew using hand signals and radios.
• Document equipment use and fuel logs.
• Support general labor and site tasks as assigned.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area.

Skills

Excavator operation

Trench safety

Equipment inspection

Rigging techniques

Teamwork

Clear communication

OSHA awareness

Driver's license

Job description

PositionSummary

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role involves operating a range of heavy equipment - primarily medium to large size excavators to dig trenches, move materials, set structures and pipes and prepare sites for utility installation. The Operator works closely with the crew to ensure precision, safety, and productivity in all phases of excavation work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (All Levels)

• Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders, and related earthmoving equipment for trenching, excavation, and backfill.

• Perform precise excavation around live utilities, maintaining strict adherence to safety and Miss Utility guidelines.

• Conduct daily pre- and post-operation equipment inspections, perform routine maintenance (fueling, lubrication, fluid checks), and report any issues immediately.

• Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times.

• Assist the crew with trench preparation, pipe installation, backfill, and site cleanup when not operating equipment.

• Communicate clearly with spotters and crew members using hand signals and radios to ensure safe coordination.

• Load, unload, and position materials and trench boxes safely using proper rigging techniques.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area; follow company and OSHA safety standards.

• Document equipment uses, inspections, and fuel logs accurately as required.

• Support general labor, excavation and other site tasks as assigned.

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating excavation or heavy construction equipment.

• Proven ability to perform precision excavation near utilities and structures.

• Knowledge of trench safety, shoring, and excavation best practices.

• OSHA certification preferred.

• Valid driver's license and willingness to drive trucks is preferred; ability to tow small trailers a plus.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills; able to follow instructions and work efficiently in a crew environment.

• Ability to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on equipment.

• Physically capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions and lifting up to 50 lbs.

• Reliable, safety-minded, and drug-free.

Benchmark Utility Services offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits and a dynamic work environment that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth.

Equal Opportunity Employer.