Hydraulic Excavator Backfill Operator — Utility Crew

Cardinal Civil Contracting Triad; Kernersville (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Cardinal Civil Contracting is a heavy civil and site development contractor. The Utility Backfill Excavator Operator runs a hydraulic tracked excavator to backfill and support trench work, pipe installation, and material handling across open excavation sites.

The role requires operating with safety, precision, and clear communication on busy job sites, with overtime and weekend work based on project needs. Cardinal emphasizes safety, OSHA compliance, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Experience operating a hydraulic excavator on underground utility or pipeline work.
• Ability to read grade stakes and follow hand signals.
• Must be 18+ and pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Reliable transportation to and from job sites.

Responsibilities

• Excavate trenches and backfill using hydraulic excavator for water, sewer, and storm systems.
• Operate equipment to load, move, and set pipe and precast structures.
• Follow grade stakes and hand signals to project specs.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections and report maintenance needs.

Skills

Hydraulic excavator operation

Grade stake reading

Clear communication

Following hand signals

Safety awareness

Education

OSHA 10

CDL / heavy equipment certification

Tools

GPS technology

Laser grading technology

Job description

Cardinal Civil Contracting is a heavy civil and site development contractor. The Utility Backfill Excavator Operator runs a hydraulic tracked excavator to backfill and support trench work, pipe installation, and material handling across open excavation sites.

The role requires operating with safety, precision, and clear communication on busy job sites, with overtime and weekend work based on project needs. Cardinal emphasizes safety, OSHA compliance, and teamwork.