Excavator Operator – Utility Crew | Health, PTO, 3% Match

Johannigman Excavating, Inc.; Greensburg (IN); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Retirement Plan — 100% Employer Match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Holiday Pay

Annual Boot Allowance

Job summary

Johannigman Excavating, Inc. is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator for our Utility Crew in Indiana. You will operate heavy equipment to dig trenches, install underground utilities, and ensure safety and quality on site.

The role requires a strong focus on safety, teamwork, and the ability to travel to various project sites. CDL is preferred but not required; you must be able to lift 50 pounds and work overtime as needed.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years operating excavators on utility crews.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred but not required.
• Able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Willingness to submit to pre-employment drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators to dig trenches for utility installations with correct depth and alignment.
• Interpret grade stakes, blueprints, and site plans with the utility crew to ensure accurate excavations.
• Perform daily inspections, basic maintenance, and report issues promptly.
• Assist with shoring, backfilling, and other manual tasks as needed on the project site.
• Complete paperwork and document equipment usage and project progress.
• Work flexible hours including overtime, weekends, and travel to project sites in Indiana.

Skills

Excavator operation

Safety awareness

Physical stamina

Job description

Excavator Operator – Utility Crew Position Overview:

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Utility Crew. In this role, you will operate heavy equipment to excavate trenches and install underground utilities, ensuring projects are completed safely and to specifications. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in utility work, a strong focus on safety, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Responsibilities:

• Safely and efficiently operate excavators to dig trenches for water, sewer, storm drainage, and other utility installations, ensuring proper depth, grade, and alignment.
• Interpret grade stakes, blueprints, and site plans to collaborate with the utility crew and achieve accurate excavations.
• Perform daily inspections, safety walk-arounds, and preventative maintenance on equipment, including checking fluids, filters, gauges, and greasing as needed.
• Maintain equipment in good operating condition, reporting any maintenance requirements or concerns promptly.
• Assist with materials handling, assembly of shoring systems, backfilling, and other manual labor tasks as required on the project site.
• Comply with all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure a safe work environment for the crew and public.
• Complete required paperwork, reporting, and documentation related to equipment usage and project progress.
• Work flexibly, including overtime, weekends, and travel to various project sites as needed, while adapting to adverse weather and field conditions.
  

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Proven experience operating excavators on a utility crew, with at least 3 years in trench excavation and utility installation.
• Valid driver's license (CDL preferred but not required).
• Ability to climb in and out of equipment unassisted, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform strenuous physical activities such as standing, walking on uneven surfaces, kneeling, bending, and pushing/pulling.
• Verifiable safety training and knowledge of shoring systems, grade reading, and equipment operation.
• Strong attention to detail, teamwork skills, and commitment to safety.
• Willingness to submit to pre-employment drug screening.
• Ability to commute or relocate to project sites in Indiana; reliable transportation required.
• Experience with track excavators or similar heavy equipment preferred; forklift operation does not qualify.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift 50+ pounds regularly.
• Work in standing, kneeling, or crouched positions for extended periods.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan — 100% Employer Match up to 3% of Employee Contributions
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Holiday Pay
• Annual Boot Allowance

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: Our company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

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