Excavator Operator

Turner Mining Group; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Turner Mining Group is hiring a Mainline Excavator Operator for underground utilities in Charles Town, WV. This direct placement (full-time, permanent) role focuses on operating a CAT 340 in a mainline configuration, trenching to line and grade, and collaborating with a pipe crew to meet daily targets.

You will lead safety within trenches, perform daily logs and inspections, and work closely with Team Lead and grade checkers to ensure high production and safe operations.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience operating heavy excavators on underground utility and mainline pipe projects.
• Active OSHA 10 certification is required.
• Valid driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate CAT 340 (Mainline Configuration) to trench to tight line and grade tolerances for underground utility systems.
• Set, align, and advance trench boxes/shoring while handling pipe sections and structures.
• Lead safety and coordinate with pipe crew to maintain production targets and site safety.
• Complete daily equipment logs, perform pre/post-trip inspections, and report maintenance needs.
• Collaborate with Team Lead and grade checkers to meet daily production goals.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Trenching & pipe laying

Safety leadership

Tools

CAT 340 excavator

Job description

Mainline Excavator Operator – Underground Utilities (CAT 340)

Location: Charles Town, WV

Position Type: Direct Placement (Full-Time, Permanent)

Primary Machine: CAT 340 (Mainline Configuration)

Reports To: Team Lead

Lead the Dig – Precision Deep Utility Operations!

Are you an expert stick-hand who knows how to keep a pipe crew moving safely and production high? We are hiring a Mainline Excavator Operator for a direct placement opportunity in Charles Town, WV.

Key Responsibilities

• Precision Mainline Trenching: Operate a CAT 340 (Mainline Configuration) to dig trenches to tight line and grade tolerances for underground utility systems (water, sewer, storm).
• Shored Trenching & Structure Setting: Expertly set, align, and advance heavy trench boxes/shoring while picking and setting pipe sections and utility structures.
• Crew Safety Leadership: Work directly over and in constant rhythm with the pipe crew inside open trenches, maintaining top-tier situational awareness.
• Daily Logging & Maintenance: Complete required daily equipment logs, perform pre- and post-trip walkarounds, check fluid levels, and report maintenance needs.
• Team Collaboration: Work in close partnership with your Team Lead and grade checkers to safely meet daily production targets.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience operating heavy excavators on underground utility and mainline pipelaying projects.
• Pipelaying Expertise: Proven background trenching to line and grade, setting structures, and managing deep utility excavations.
• Certifications & Compliance: Active OSHA 10 certification and a valid Driver's License are required.
• Technical Skills: Expert ability to set, advance, and step trench boxes safely around working ground crews.