Loader Operator (Underground Wet Utilities)

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas Sterling Construction is seeking an experienced Loader Operator in Underground Utilities to join our El Paso team. You will operate CAT 938-size loaders or similar equipment to move bedding materials and support backfill, while staying safe around active excavations and pipe crews.

This role emphasizes precise material handling, coordination with excavator operators and crews, daily equipment checks, and adherence to project safety requirements. A valid U.S. driver's license is required.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience operating wheel loaders in a heavy civil construction environment.
• Experience operating CAT 938-size loaders or comparable equipment.
• Experience supporting underground utility operations (storm/sanitary) preferred.
• Valid U.S. Driver's License.

Responsibilities

• Operate loaders to move, stockpile, and place materials in underground utility operations.
• Transport and place bedding material for storm and sanitary pipe installation.
• Support backfill operations and material placement as trenches are lifted.
• Safely handle pipe, structures, and construction materials around active utilities.
• Maintain material stockpiles and keep work areas organized.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.

Skills

Wheel loaders

CAT 938 loaders

Underground utilities experience

Safety around excavations

Job description

Are you an experienced Loader Operator who knows how to support underground utility operations?

Texas Sterling Construction is seeking a skilled Loader Operator in Underground Utilities to join our team on a large-scale construction project in the El Paso area.

As a Loader Operator, you’ll play an important role in supporting the installation of storm and sanitary utility systems. You’ll operate CAT 938-size loaders or similar equipment to move and place bedding material, support backfill operations, handle pipe and materials, and keep material moving efficiently throughout the utility installation process.

This role requires more than simply loading trucks or moving dirt. We’re looking for an operator who understands how to work safely and precisely around active excavations, pipe crews, structures, and other heavy equipment. If you have underground utility experience, take pride in your equipment operation, and know how to keep a pipe crew supplied and productive, we want to hear from you.

Position Description

As a Loader Operator in Underground Utilities, you will be responsible for safely operating CAT 938-size loaders or similar equipment in support of underground storm and sanitary utility installation.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate loaders to move, stockpile, and place materials throughout active underground utility operations.
• Transport and precisely place bedding material for storm and sanitary pipe installation.
• Support backfill operations, including moving and placing processed excavated material as trenches are brought back up in lifts.
• Safely handle and move pipe, structures, and construction materials while minimizing the risk of damage.
• Keep bedding, backfill, and other materials moving efficiently to support production and prevent delays to the pipe crew.
• Work safely around deep excavations, trench boxes, shoring systems, ground personnel, excavators, and other heavy equipment.
• Coordinate closely with excavator operators, pipe crews, spotters, and supervisors using established hand signals and communication procedures.
• Load and unload materials as needed and maintain organized material stockpiles and work areas.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance, including fueling, lubricating, cleaning, and reporting mechanical or safety concerns.
• Maintain awareness of changing jobsite and excavation conditions and follow all company and project safety requirements.
• Assist with general jobsite and labor duties as needed to support the underground utility crew.

Position Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience operating wheel loaders in a heavy civil construction environment.
• Experience operating CAT 938-size loaders or comparable equipment.
• Experience supporting underground utility operations, including storm and/or sanitary installation, is highly preferred.
• Experience handling and placing bedding and backfill materials around active utility installations.
• Experience safely handling pipe, structures, and construction materials with a loader is highly preferred.
• Ability to safely and precisely operate equipment around deep excavations, trench boxes/shoring, ground crews, and other heavy equipment.
• Understanding of backfill operations, material processing, and placement of material in lifts.
• Ability to perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
• Valid U.S. Driver's License.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer: We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.