Hydraulic Excavator Operator - Utility Backfill & Trench Work

Cardinal Civil Contracting, LLC; Kernersville (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Holidays

Job summary

Cardinal Civil Contracting, LLC, a heavy civil and site development contractor, seeks an experienced Utility Backfill Excavator Operator for our Kernersville, NC project. You will run a hydraulic tracked excavator to backfill trenches behind pipe installation, support grading and material handling, and assist with adjacent manual tasks on active utility sites.

Key duties include trench backfill, loading and placing bedding stone, following grade stakes, and ensuring safety compliance.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating a hydraulic excavator on underground utility or pipeline work.
• Ability to read grade stakes and follow hand signals.
• Familiarity with OSHA trenching and shoring requirements and safety practices.
• Physical ability to lift, climb, and work in various weather conditions.
• Valid CDL or heavy equipment operator certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate a hydraulic tracked excavator to backfill and compact trenches behind pipe installation for water, sewer, and storm systems.
• Excavate trenches with proper slope and protection, following project specs and signals.
• Load, place, and spread bedding stone and backfill materials to specification.
• Follow grade stakes and hand signals to ensure alignment and safety.
• Lift and position pipe and precast structures using proper rigging and attachments.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Maintain organized work area and support crew productivity.
• Coordinate with Foreman and crew to manage equipment movement and safety.

Skills

Excavator operation

Grade stakes reading

Communication

Safety awareness

Tools

GPS technology

Laser grading

Job description

Cardinal Civil Contracting, LLC, a heavy civil and site development contractor, seeks an experienced Utility Backfill Excavator Operator for our Kernersville, NC project. You will run a hydraulic tracked excavator to backfill trenches behind pipe installation, support grading and material handling, and assist with adjacent manual tasks on active utility sites.

Key duties include trench backfill, loading and placing bedding stone, following grade stakes, and ensuring safety compliance.