Heavy Machine Operator

Vortex Companies, LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Vortex Companies, LLC in Houston, TX is seeking a Heavy Machine Operator to join our field crews supporting underground utility and trenchless projects. You will operate heavy equipment, perform inspections, and assist with on-site tasks while adhering to safety policies.

The role involves long hours (55–70 per week), frequent travel, and outdoor work in varying weather. Prior underground construction experience and a valid CDL are preferred; bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Qualifications

• 1+ year heavy equipment operating experience
• Experience with underground utility construction or excavation
• Valid driver’s license preferred
• Physically demanding work and ability to lift 50+ lbs
• Outdoor work in all weather conditions
• Comfort working in trenches and excavation sites
• Pre-employment drug test, background screening, and DOT physical required
• Trucking experience is a plus
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently on underground utility and trenchless jobs.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic upkeep.
• Work with ground personnel to dig, bed, and backfill trenches.
• Cut, fit, and seal different piping.
• Ensure trenches are excavated to proper depth and grade.
• Assist with installation of water, storm, and sanitary sewer pipe.
• Work outside of machinery to support crew duties.
• Load and unload materials and equipment as needed.
• Follow all safety policies and jobsite requirements.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Bilingual English/Spanish

Job description

Heavy Machine Operator

Vortex Companies, LLC Houston, Texas, United States

About this position

Want to be part of one of the country’s fastest growing infrastructure businesses? The Vortex Companies, LLC delivers cutting edge trenchless technologies and turnkey services to make the worlds water cleaner and we’re growing every day!

We think BIG about solving the world’s toughest challenges in failing water, sewer and industrial infrastructure.

At Vortex, you will be surrounded with a culture that puts your safety first in all we do. If you like a fast-paced environment, a team structure that provides support, training, and development,

Key Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently on underground utility and trenchless jobs.
• Perform daily equipment inspections, maintenance checks, and basic upkeep.
• Work with ground personnel to safely dig, bed, and backfill trenches.
• Cut, fit, and seal different types of piping.
• Ensure trenches are excavated to proper depth and grade.
• Assist with installation of water, storm, and sanitary sewer pipe.
• Work outside of the machinery when needed to support the crew with physical labor and jobsite tasks.
• Load and unload materials and equipment as needed.
• Follow all company safety policies and jobsite safety requirements.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of heavy equipment operating experience required
• Experience with underground utility construction or excavation required
• Valid driver’s license preferred
• Must be able to perform physically demanding work and lift 50+ lbs regularly.
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Must be comfortable working in trenches, around excavation sites, and in confined jobsite environments.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test, background screening, and DOT physical.
• Trucking experience, including driving, loading, and unloading equipment or materials, is a plus.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Typical work schedules are Monday through Saturday, with weekly hours generally ranging from 55 to 70 hours. This position requires frequent out-of-town travel and extended stays at project locations as needed. On occasion, work may include shift work, weekends, evenings, holidays, and overnight travel. Flexibility is required to meet operational and project demands.

Vortex Companies, LLC and all of its subsidiaries, considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. All applicants will be considered solely on the basis of their qualifications.

We are a fair chance employer.