Machine Operator

Underground Connections; Virginia; Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Underground Connections in Hampton Roads, VA is seeking a Machine Operator to safely operate and maintain heavy machinery for utility installation and excavation. This is a full-time hybrid role with primary on-site work and some tasks from home, such as documentation and training.

Responsibilities include setting up machines, conducting pre-operation inspections, monitoring performance, and coordinating with supervisors and crew. A high school diploma is required; relevant licenses are a plus.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess skills in machine operation and working safely with heavy machinery.
• Candidates should possess skills in quality control, including checking work against specifications and identifying issues.
• Candidates should possess skills in using hand tools and related equipment commonly used in construction and utility work.
• Candidates should possess strong communication skills for coordinating with team members, supervisors, and clients.
• Experience in highway, utility, or heavy construction environments is preferred.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and willingness to follow company safety programs is required.
• Ability to read basic plans or instructions and perform physical tasks in outdoor environments.
• High school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications or equipment operator licenses are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment used in utility installation and excavation.
• Set up machines and perform pre-operation inspections.
• Monitor equipment performance and make basic adjustments for efficiency.
• Follow safety protocols and coordinate with supervisors and crew members.
• Assist with site preparation and use of hand tools as needed.

Skills

Machine operation

Safety

Quality control

Hand tools

Communication

Reading plans

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Company Description Underground Connections is a Class A highway and heavy contractor specializing in preconstruction services, trenchless utility installations, and excavation solutions across Eastern Virginia. The team serves the Armed Forces, state and local governments, and communities in the Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore regions. Services include GPS mapping, ground penetrating radar, private utility locating, and installation of water, sewer, electric, and communications systems. The company focuses on minimizing surface disruption through advanced trenchless technology while providing reliable, efficient utility services. Underground Connections continues to expand its capabilities in horizontal directional drilling, lighting installations, fiber communications, and full-service sewer repairs and replacements.

Role Description The Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment used in utility installation, excavation, and related construction activities. Day-to-day tasks include setting up machines, performing pre-operation inspections, monitoring equipment performance, and making basic adjustments to ensure efficient and accurate operation. The role also involves following safety protocols, assisting with site preparation, using hand tools as needed, and communicating with supervisors and crew members to coordinate work. This is a full-time hybrid role based in the Hampton Roads, Virginia Metropolitan Area, with primary work on job sites and some tasks that can be completed from home, such as documentation or training.

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess skills in machine operation and working safely with heavy machinery.
• Candidates should possess skills in quality control, including checking work against specifications and identifying issues.
• Candidates should possess skills in using hand tools and related equipment commonly used in construction and utility work.
• Candidates should possess strong communication skills for coordinating with team members, supervisors, and clients.
• Experience in highway, utility, or heavy construction environments is preferred.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and willingness to follow company safety programs is required.
• Ability to read basic plans or instructions and perform physical tasks in outdoor environments.
• High school diploma or equivalent; relevant certifications or equipment operator licenses are a plus.