Excavator Operator – Underground Utilities (Water & Sewer)

Leoterra; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 48,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation

Career growth

Dental insurance

Job summary

LeoTerra Siteworks in Wilmington, NC is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator for underground water and sewer projects. This full-time role requires operating excavators, trenching to grade, and coordinating with pipe crews while maintaining safety standards.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years of excavator experience in underground utilities, reads grade stakes, and adheres to OSHA regulations. CDL is preferred but not required, and reliable transportation is essential.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of excavator experience in underground utility work.
• Experience with water, sewer, and storm drainage installation preferred.
• Ability to read grade stakes and understand project plans.
• Knowledge of trench safety and excavation regulations.
• Valid driver's license required (CDL preferred but not required).
• Reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators to dig trenches for water, sewer, and storm drain installation
• Excavate to proper line and grade using laser and grade stakes
• Safely work around existing underground utilities
• Assist pipe layers with setting pipe, fittings, manholes, and structures
• Load trucks and move materials as needed
• Follow trench safety and OSHA excavation standards
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Maintain clean and organized job sites
• Work closely with foreman and crew members to meet production goals

Skills

Excavator operation

Trenching

Safety awareness

Grade stakes reading

OSHA compliance

CDL preferred

Tools

Grade laser

Grade rod

Job description

Job Title: Excavator Operator – Underground Utilities (Water & Sewer)

Location: Wilmington, NC
Company: LeoTerra Siteworks
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Excavator Operator with experience in underground utility installation (water, sewer, and storm drain). This position is responsible for operating heavy equipment to excavate trenches, set pipe, and support underground utility crews while maintaining proper grade and ensuring site safety.

The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of trenching operations, utility depth requirements, and works effectively with pipe crews in a fast-paced field environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate excavators to dig trenches for water, sewer, and storm drain installation
• Excavate to proper line and grade using laser and grade stakes
• Safely work around existing underground utilities
• Assist pipe layers with setting pipe, fittings, manholes, and structures
• Load trucks and move materials as needed
• Follow trench safety and OSHA excavation standards
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Maintain clean and organized job sites
• Work closely with foreman and crew members to meet production goals

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating excavators in underground utility work
• Experience with water, sewer, and storm drainage installation preferred
• Ability to read grade stakes and understand project plans
• Knowledge of trench safety and excavation regulations
• Strong attention to safety and situational awareness
• Valid driver’s license required (CDL preferred but not required)
• Reliable transportation

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to climb in and out of equipment repeatedly
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds when assisting crew

Job Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, vision, dental, and life insurance benefits
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.