Heavy Equipment Operator - Utilities Division

Burns-Group; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Burns Group is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator in Columbus, MS to support underground utility construction projects. The role requires hands-on operation of excavators, backhoes, loaders, and other machines, with attention to trench safety and precise grading.

Ideal candidates have at least two years of experience, can read grade with lasers or GPS, and will follow safety procedures including 811 locates. Burns Group emphasizes safety, training, and a culture of teamwork.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience operating heavy equipment in underground utility construction.
• Experience with trench safety and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to read grade using lasers or GPS.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, and skid steers, rollers, and trench compactors.
• Dig trenches to correct line, depth, and grade for water, sewer, and storm drain pipes.
• Set pipes, manholes, inlets, boxes, and other structures to grade.
• Load and unload pipe, trench boxes, and materials safely.
• Follow safety procedures including 811 locates and trench safety rules.
• Inspect equipment and report damage or mechanical problems to foreman.

Skills

Operate heavy equipment

GPS/Trimble

Reading labels/warnings

Attention to safety

Team communication

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, MS

Burns Group is a family-owned business, established in 1977 serving the civil construction and aggregates industry in the Southeast. Our portfolio includes heavy civil, logistics, and recycling divisions. Our core values and dedication to our people guide every aspect of our company. We invite you to contact us and see what it means to be #burnsbuilt.

Ideal Candidate

Requires at least two years experience of the following responsibilities:

Equipment Operation

• Operate heavy equipment used in underground utility construction, including but not limited to:
  
  
  
  • Excavators
  
  
  • Backhoes
  
  
  • Loaders and skid steers
  
  
  • Rollers and trench compactors
  
  
  
  


• Dig trench to the correct line, depth, and grade for water, sewer, and storm drain pipe


• Set pipe, manholes, inlets, boxes, and other structures safely and to grade


• Place bedding, backfill, and compact in lifts to meet project specs


• Load and unload pipe, trench boxes, and materials safely


• Dig carefully around existing utilities and follow the crew's direction when hand digging is needed


• Work with the pipe layer and grade checker to hit grade using a laser or GPS

Trench Safety

• Install, move, and remove trench boxes and shoring as directed by the competent person


• Keep spoil piles and equipment at least 2 feet back from the trench edge


• Never let workers enter a trench that is not properly protected


• Watch for signs of cave-ins, water, and soil changes and stop work when conditions are unsafe


• Confirm 811 locates are marked before digging and respect all marked utilities

Equipment Care

• Prepares heavy equipment by conducting inspections; performing preventive maintenance checks


• Complete daily pre-shift inspections, check fluids, grease equipment, and keep machines clean


• Inspect buckets, couplers, and rigging before lifting pipe or structures


• Report damage, leaks, or mechanical problems to the Foreman and Shop right away

Safety

• Maintains safe, secure, and healthy work environment by following standards and procedures and complying with legal regulations


• Follow all Burns Dirt safety rules and OSHA standards, including OSHA excavation and trenching rules


• Use proper rigging and lifting practices when setting pipe and structures


• Watch for overhead power lines and stay aware of workers in and around the trench at all times


• Take part in daily safety briefings and report any hazard, incident, or near-miss right away

Preferred Qualifications / Skills:

• Experience with Trimble GPS or other machine control systems is preferred but not required


• Ability to read labels, safety warnings, and guidelines


• Attention to detail and alert at all times to ensure safety


• Able to receive and follow instructions


• Communicates well with co-workers


• Ability to safely operate various vehicles and equipment


• Previous experience, especially in the construction industry, preferred

All candidates must be able to pass the following:

• Drug Screen (fee paid by Burns)


• Background Screening


• MVR Screening

At Burns Dirt, we believe in a skills-first approach to recruitment and employment. We are committed to removing barriers, enhancing opportunities, and empowering individuals based on merit and potential.

Employment Eligibility:

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility will be required if selected for hire.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Burns Dirt is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.