Excavator Operator – Water – Sewer

Zachry; Turkey (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Zachry Underground & Utility Services is seeking an Excavator Operator to safely operate large excavators for water and sewer main construction. The role supports the pipe crew by digging trenches to spec, aligning pipes, and sealing joints as required.

Hourly pay is based on experience and project needs. Qualified candidates will have a minimum of 3 years’ excavation experience on water/sewer projects, the ability to bench and secure excavations, and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of excavation experience on water and sewer construction projects.
• Ability to bench and secure excavations during operation.
• Previous experience installing up to 48″ pipe in deep excavations.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy excavation equipment safely under the direction of the supervisor.
• Bench, slope, or install shoring to secure excavations during operations.
• Read and interpret cut stakes and grade elevations.
• Recognize hazardous conditions and report them to the supervisor.
• Dig around and assist in exposing live utilities.
• Load trucks safely and efficiently.
• Lead and assist in changing out backhoe buckets and hoe rams.
• Work days, nights, and weekends as required.
• Communicate with others using hand signals while operating equipment.
• Assist in loading and unloading miscellaneous materials as needed.
• Follow all required safety rules, policies, and guidelines.
• Perform other labor-related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Excavation

Safety-conscious

Team player

Physical stamina

Job description

Build Your Future with a Company That’s Built America for Over a Century

For more than 100 years, Zachry Underground & Utility Services, a division of Zachry Construction Corporation, has been shaping America’s infrastructure—from highways and bridges to the underground and utility systems that connect communities and strengthen our nation. As a family‑owned company, we’ve built our reputation on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our people.

At Zachry, you’re not just joining a construction company—you’re joining a family that values hard work, teamwork, and doing the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. We’re looking for dedicated individuals who are ready to grow their careers and make a lasting impact.

Our Core Values guide everything we do: Every Person Matters®, Together We Can Do Great Things®, This Is More Than a Job®.

Position Summary

The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe operation of a large excavator, performing excavation and shoring of trenches for the construction of pipe systems for water and sewer mains. This position ensures the ground is prepped and trenches are dug to proper specifications for pipes, aligns pipes, and seals joints as required. Excavator Operators work closely with the pipe crew to install water and/or sewer mains. The hourly pay rate is dependent on experience.

What You’ll Do

• Operate heavy excavation equipment safely under the direction of the supervisor.
• Slope, bench, or install shoring to secure all excavations during operations.
• Read and interpret cut stakes and grade elevations.
• Recognize hazardous conditions and report them to the supervisor.
• Dig around and assist in exposing live utilities.
• Maintain sub-grade and assist in setting up grade and centerline.
• Load trucks safely and efficiently.
• Lead and assist in changing out backhoe buckets and hoe rams.
• Work days, nights, and weekends as required.
• Communicate with others using verbal and non-verbal hand signals while operating equipment.
• Assist in loading and unloading miscellaneous materials as needed.
• Follow all required safety rules, policies, and guidelines.
• Perform other labor-related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum of 3 years of excavation experience on water and sewer construction projects
• Ability to bench and secure all excavations during operation
• Previous experience installing up to 48″ pipe in deep excavations
• Reliable transportation
• Physical ability to perform assigned labor-related tasks (climbing ladders, entering/exiting ditches)
• Physical ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 poundsl
• General labor skills and knowledge of construction site operations
• Basic knowledge of operating hand and power tools (hammers, sledgehammers, pry bars, screwdrivers, etc.)
• Flexibility to work day and night shifts as required
• Dependable, safety-focused, and team-oriented

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

At Zachry, we invest in our people because they’re the foundation of our success. We’re proud to offer career growth opportunities, long‑term stability, and a culture built on trust and respect.

Our Industry‑Leading Benefits Include

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 6% dollar‑for‑dollar company match, Paid Time Off, and an annual Performance Bonus Program
• Company‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your family
• Opportunities for training, professional development, and advancement

Zachry Underground & Utility Services performs heavy civil, underground, and utility work throughout the United States. Relocation may be required for ongoing opportunities and career growth.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We do not sponsor or transfer sponsorship of an employment visa at this time. We do not interview or hire students in F‑1 or J‑1 status and will not sponsor them for work visas.

To learn more about our legacy and projects, visit www.zachrycorp.com.