Laborer/Equipment Operator - $31.96/hour

American Water; Charleston (WV); On-site; USD 37,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

American Water seeks a Laborer/Equipment Operator to perform laborer duties and operate construction equipment for water distribution system work.

The role requires at least 2 years of equipment operation experience, a valid driver's license, and CDL Class A is preferred. If not possessed, it must be obtained within 1 year of hire. DOT medical certification must be maintained.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED; ability to read and present information clearly.
• 2 years’ experience operating backhoe and other construction equipment.
• Experience in water/wastewater industry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate construction equipment (e.g. backhoe, terramite) to support water distribution construction and maintenance.
• Perform safety inspections and routine preventative maintenance on equipment.
• Assist with erecting barricades and placing safety lights; may flag traffic as required.
• Operate company vehicles and pull trailers; read schematics/blueprints and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety awareness

Reading blueprints

Basic computer skills

Geography knowledge

Hazard awareness

Communication

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Job description

Job Details

Job Title: Laborer/Equipment Operator – $31.96/hour

Posted Start Date: 9/23/26

Posted Range: $31.96/hour

Compensation & Benefits

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement, and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally.

Primary Role

The Laborer/Equipment Operator role exists to perform laborer duties and operate construction equipment (e.g. - backhoe, terramite) as needed to perform operation, maintenance, and construction of water distribution systems.

Key Accountabilities

The Laborer/Equipment Operator performs all functions of the position in a safe and conscientious manner with constant regard for the safety of fellow employees and the general public. The Laborer/Equipment Operator operates earthmoving construction equipment and commercial vehicles. The role performs safety/operational inspections and routine preventative maintenance to equipment.

The Laborer/Equipment Operator performs duties of a laborer on a daily basis. They assist with erecting barricades and placing safety lights around worksites to protect workers from street traffic; may flag traffic as required.

The Laborer/Equipment Operator operates company vehicles and pull trailers in a safe manner, performs maintenance work on company property and grounds as instructed, reads and understands schematics, blueprints, or sketches of work to be done, and performs other duties as assigned by their Supervisor.

Knowledge/Skills

• Must possess basic geographical knowledge of the company’s service area and must be adaptable to variations in topography and weather conditions.
• Working knowledge of company policies, procedures and safety practices.
• Basic computer skills.
• Familiar with the duties of laborer position.
• Understanding of Miss Utility markings and regulations.
• Knowledge of hazards associated with other below and above ground utilities.
• General understanding of overhead high voltage line safety regulations and company policies regarding the same.

Experience/Education

• High School Diploma/GED; ability to read and comprehend instructions and effectively present information in one‑on‑one situations to customers, clients and other employees.
• 2 years’ experience operating backhoe and other construction equipment.
• Experience in water/wastewater industry preferred.

Certifications and Licenses

• Valid Drivers License required.
• CDL Class A preferred. If a candidate doesn't possess a Class A license upon hire, it must be acquired within 1 year of hire.
• Must be able to maintain DOT medical certification.

Travel Requirements

Position involves local travel. Hazards include driving, working in traffic areas.

Other

• The position will work overtime as required.
• Typical outdoor work environment.

Competencies

• Plans & Aligns
• Decision Making
• Communicates Effectively
• Builds Networks
• Action Oriented