Equipment Operator - CDL

Gilder Search Group; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company %

Overtime opportunities

Paid time off and holidays

On-the-job training & certifications

Career advancement into lead operator

Job summary

Gilder Search Group seeks a CDL Equipment Operator for a well‑established utility contractor in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. You will operate Class B vehicles including vacuum, jetting, and CCTV trucks, with hands‑on training provided for qualified candidates.

No previous experience required—on‑the‑job training, with clear career advancement into lead operator and supervisor roles. Responsibilities include underground inspection and equipment mobilization in local projects.

Qualifications

• Valid Class B CDL required; tanker and air brake endorsements strongly preferred.
• Minimum 21 years of age to meet insurance requirements.
• Clean driving record with acceptable MVR.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Ability to pass pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Operate Class B commercial vehicles including vacuum, CCTV, and jetting trucks for sewer and storm drain maintenance.
• Perform underground utility inspection, cleaning, and maintenance in field construction environments.
• Set up and operate hydro‑excavation, pipe cleaning, and video inspection services.
• Assist field crews with equipment mobilization, site preparation, and project completion activities.
• Complete daily vehicle inspections and documentation of all work performed.

Skills

CDL Driver

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

MVR check

Background check

Education

High school diploma or GED

OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety certification

Tools

Vacuum trucks

Jetting trucks

CCTV trucks

Hydro-excavation equipment

Job description

A well-established utility contractor is seeking CDL Equipment Operators to support expanding operations across Nashville and Middle Tennessee. This CDL Equipment Operator position offers hands‑on training in specialized utility equipment including vacuum trucks, jetting trucks, and CCTV inspection systems. No previous experience required – comprehensive on‑the‑job training provided for qualified candidates with a Class B CDL.

What We Offer (Benefits & Compensation)

• Competitive hourly pay: $25.00-$31.50/hour depending on experience
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution
• Significant overtime opportunities available
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• On-the-job training and equipment certification programs
• Clear career advancement pathways into lead operator and supervisor roles

Key Responsibilities – CDL Equipment Operator

• Operate Class B commercial vehicles including vacuum trucks, jetting trucks, CCTV trucks, and combination units for sewer and storm drain maintenance
• Perform underground utility inspection, cleaning, and maintenance work in field construction environments
• Set up and operate specialized equipment for hydro‑excavation, pipe cleaning, and video inspection services
• Assist field crews with equipment mobilization, site preparation, and project completion activities
• Complete daily vehicle inspections, basic maintenance checks, and accurate documentation of all work performed

Qualifications – CDL Equipment Operator

• Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required; tanker and air brake endorsements strongly preferred
• Minimum 21 years of age to meet insurance requirements
• Clean driving record with acceptable Motor Vehicle Report (MVR)
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Ability to pass pre‑employment background check, drug screening, and ongoing random testing

Preferred Qualifications – Utility Equipment Operator

• Previous construction, utilities, or heavy equipment operation experience
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety certification
• Experience with vacuum trucks, hydro‑excavation, or sewer cleaning equipment
• Familiarity with confined space entry procedures
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

Physical Requirements – CDL Equipment Operator

• Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver objects up to 100 pounds regularly
• Capable of squatting, crawling, bending, and working in confined spaces including manholes and underground structures
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions on construction sites
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout workday
• Travel is limited in this role, with most work performed locally in the Nashville metropolitan area