Excavator Operator

UPS Industrial Services, LLC.; Texas City (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

UPS Industrial Services in Texas City, TX is seeking an Excavator Operator to join our safety-conscious team. You will safely operate excavators and other heavy equipment to perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, loading, and material handling per project specs.

The ideal candidate has at least 2 years of experience on construction or industrial sites, reads site plans and grade stakes, and adheres to OSHA and company safety rules. This on‑site role may require overtime.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating excavators on construction or industrial projects.
• Ability to read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and utility markings.
• Commitment to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and other heavy equipment on construction/industrial sites safely.
• Perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, and earthmoving per specs.
• Load materials and assist with site preparation and cleanup.
• Identify underground utilities before work and follow safety procedures.
• Conduct equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.

Skills

Safety compliance

Equipment operation

Reading plans

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

NCCCO certification

OSHA 10/30

CDL license

Job description

UPS Industrial Services is looking for an Excavator Operator to join our safety conscious team! The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely operating excavators and other heavy equipment to perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, loading, and material handling activities. The operator works closely with supervisors, equipment managers, and site crews to ensure all work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate excavators in a safe and efficient manner on construction and industrial job sites.
• Perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, and earthmoving activities according to project requirements.
• Load trucks with soil, aggregate, debris, and other materials.
• Identify and avoid underground utilities, pipelines, and other hazards before excavation activities begin.
• Read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, utility markings, and construction drawings.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections and complete required documentation.
• Monitor equipment performance and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and perform routine preventive maintenance.
• Follow all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and site-specific procedures.
• Work effectively with laborers, foremen, surveyors, and other construction personnel.
• Assist with site preparation, cleanup, and other duties as assigned.
• Ensure excavation activities meet productivity, quality, and environmental standards.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience operating excavators in construction, industrial, or civil projects.
• Knowledge of excavation techniques, trenching safety, and utility locating practices.
• Ability to safely operate heavy construction equipment in a variety of job site conditions.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans and grade stakes.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.

Preferred

• NCCCO, NCCER, or equivalent heavy equipment certification.
• Experience working on pipeline, refinery, industrial, commercial, or infrastructure projects.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• CDL license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficiency in operating various sizes and types of excavators.
• Understanding of soil conditions and excavation methods.
• Ability to perform precise digging around existing utilities and structures.
• Strong situational awareness and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Basic mechanical knowledge of heavy equipment systems.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, and balance for extended periods.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work in dusty, noisy, and physically demanding environments.
• Ability to maintain focus and alertness while operating heavy equipment.
• Construction, industrial, and infrastructure project sites.
• Exposure to moving equipment, uneven terrain, weather extremes, and construction-related hazards.
• May require overtime, weekends, and travel depending on project needs.

Safety Expectations:

• Adhere to all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in daily safety meetings and job hazard analyses.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near misses.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

UPS Industrial Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or any other status protected by applicable law.