Excavator Operator (Underground Wet Utilities)

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc. is seeking an Excavator Operator in Underground Utilities for a large-scale project in the El Paso area. You will safely operate excavators to install storm and sanitary utilities, trench to grade, and support bedding and pipe placement.

The role requires at least two years of experience with large excavators in heavy civil construction and a valid driver's license. OSHA 10 is preferred. A strong commitment to safety and teamwork is essential.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license.
• At least two years of experience operating large excavators in heavy civil construction.
• Experience performing excavation and trenching for underground utilities (storm and sanitary).
• OSHA 10 certification preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators to perform excavation and trenching for underground storm and sanitary utility installations.
• Excavate trenches to required line, grade, depth, and width with accuracy.
• Maintain proper slopes during deep trench excavations and ensure safe conditions.
• Work around trench boxes, shoring systems, existing utilities, and other crews safely.
• Prepare trenches and bedding material to support pipe installation.
• Assist with safe placement of PVC, large-diameter pipe, and underground structures.
• Support installation of manholes, junction boxes, inlets, and similar structures.
• Coordinate with pipe crews, spotters, and grade personnel using signals.
• Excavate, stockpile, and manage material to keep operations moving.
• Support backfill by placing material in lifts after installation.
• Read grade stakes, plans, elevations, and project specs to maintain line and grade.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance.

Skills

Driver's license

Excavator operation

Underground utilities experience

OSHA 10

Job description

Position Description

Are you an expert operator who thrives in the heart of heavy civil construction? Texas Sterling Construction is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator in Underground Utilities to join our team on a large-scale construction project in the El Paso area. As an Excavator Operator, you’ll play a key role in the installation of storm and sanitary utility systems, working with pipe ranging from smaller PVC to large-diameter RCP. You’ll perform deep trench excavation, dig to grade, maintain proper slopes, work safely around trench boxes and shoring systems, and support the placement of bedding, pipe, manholes, junction boxes, inlets, and other underground structures.

We build more than infrastructure—we build careers.

Texas Sterling Construction, a division of Sterling Infrastructure, Inc., is a trusted leader in heavy civil construction across the Lone Star State. From major highway systems to critical underground utilities, we deliver excellence through teamwork, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to safety. We believe in empowering our people with opportunities to grow and succeed in their careers.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators to perform excavation and trenching for underground storm and sanitary utility installations.
• Excavate trenches to required line, grade, depth, and width while maintaining accuracy and production.
• Perform deep excavations while maintaining proper slopes and safe working conditions based on soil and site conditions.
• Work safely and efficiently around trench boxes, shoring systems, existing utilities, personnel, and other equipment.
• Prepare trenches and place bedding material to support proper pipe installation.
• Assist crews with the safe placement and installation of PVC, large-diameter RCP, and other underground utility pipe.
• Support the installation and placement of manholes, junction boxes, inlets, and other underground structures using precise equipment control.
• Handle pipe and structures carefully and accurately to prevent damage during installation.
• Coordinate closely with pipe crews, spotters, grade personnel, and other operators using hand signals and established communication procedures.
• Excavate, stockpile, and manage material to keep utility installation operations moving efficiently.
• Support backfill operations by placing and processing material in appropriate lifts following pipe and structure installation.
• Read and follow grade stakes, plans, elevations, and other project specifications to maintain proper line and grade.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance, including fueling, lubricating, cleaning, and identifying potential mechanical or safety concerns.
• Follow all company and project safety requirements while maintaining awareness of changing trench and jobsite conditions.

Position Requirements

Qualifications for the Excavator Operator position

• Valid driver's license.
• At least two years of experience operating large excavators in heavy civil construction.
• Experience performing excavation and trenching for underground utilities, including storm and/or sanitary systems.
• Experience operating larger excavators for deep trench excavation, pipe installation, and structure placement.
• Ability to excavate to line and grade and safely perform deep trench excavation.
• Experience working around trench boxes, shoring systems, and properly sloped excavations.
• Experience supporting pipe installation, bedding placement, structures, and backfill operations.
• Experience working with large-diameter pipe, including RCP, and underground structures such as manholes, junction boxes, and inlets is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of excavation safety practices and working in varying soil conditions, including Type C soil.
• Ability to safely work around ground crews, existing utilities, and other heavy equipment.
• OSHA 10 certification is preferred but not required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer: We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.