Heavy Machine Operator *

Vortex Companies; Houston, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Vortex Companies, LLC is seeking a Heavy Machine Operator to join our crew in Houston, TX. This role involves operating heavy equipment on underground utility and trenchless projects, with a strong emphasis on safety, teamwork, and hands-on support to the crew.

The position requires physical stamina, the ability to work outdoors in all weather, and willingness to travel to project sites. Typical schedules are long hours, with opportunities for growth within a fast‑growing infrastructure company.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of heavy equipment operating experience is required.
• Experience with underground utility construction or excavation is required.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Underground utility construction

Physical stamina

Outdoor work in all weather

Teamwork and safety

Bilingual English/Spanish (pref.)

Job description

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, then.

Vortex is looking for a Heavy Machine Operator to join our crew. This position works in underground utility construction, including sewer, storm, and water line work, along with trenchless pipe bursting projects.

This is not a “sit in the machine all day” operator job. We need someone who can run equipment but is also willing to jump out and work with the crew in the trench, in the hole, and on the ground. A big part of this job is physical labor, helping the crew, moving materials, digging, and doing whatever needs to get done to keep the job moving safely.

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.