Equipment Operator in Sterling

Energy Jobline ZR; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Benchmark Utility Services is seeking an Equipment Operator to perform excavations and earthmoving for utility construction and sitework. You will operate medium to large excavation equipment, dig trenches, move materials, and prepare sites for installation, coordinating closely with the crew for precision and safety.

The role emphasizes adherence to safety standards, routine inspections, and effective communication on a dynamic worksite in Virginia. Experience with live utilities is required.

Qualifications

• 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 and shoring best practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders, and related equipment for trenching and backfill.
• Perform precise excavation around live utilities with safety guidelines.
• Conduct daily inspections and routine maintenance; report issues promptly.
• Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times.
• Assist crew with trench prep, pipe installation, backfill, and site cleanup.
• Communicate with spotters and crew using signals and radios for coordination.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Tools

OSHA certification

Driver's license

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Benchmark is a premier design-build, site and underground utility construction firm, completing over 500 projects spanning over ten (10) years. With a heavy focus on mission critical facilities, our teams collaborate seamlessly to ensure our customers receive the highest level of service in the construction industry. At Benchmark, our success is fueled by our exceptional workforce. We prioritize training and professional development, encouraging our team to expand and enhance their unique skills, so they can fully realize their potential. If you are driven and passionate about excellence, we want to hear from you. Join us and be a part of our dynamic team, where your skills and ambitions will be nurtured and valued.

Position Summary

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.

Requirements

• 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 .
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive trucks is ; 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.

Benefits

Benchmark Utility Services offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits and a dynamic work environment that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth. If you possess the Qualifications and skills to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

Equal Opportunity Employer.