Operator - Utility

Alliance Construction; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Weekly Pay

Overtime Opportunities

Benefits Package – Medical, Dental & V

Paid Holidays & PTO

Dependable, Well-Maintained Equipment

Excellent Work/Life Balance

Inclusive & Supportive Crew

Job summary

Alliance Construction, a locally owned general contractor serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas, is seeking skilled heavy equipment operators to support excavation, pipe installation, and trench work on commercial earthwork projects.

You will work with the Foreman and crew, perform pre-use inspections, maintain safety, and comply with all regulations while handling loaders, excavators, rollers, and skid steers in varying weather conditions on town and out-of-town projects.

Qualifications

• Must be able to operate and work safely with loaders, excavators, rollers, skid steers, and related equipment.
• Demonstrates safety-focused approach and ability to follow site procedures.
• Able to work in varying weather conditions and physically demanding environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery safely to excavate trenches and around utilities.
• Perform daily safety inspections and basic machine maintenance.
• Assist with pipe installation and trench backfill tasks.
• Grade and level trench bases, verify slope requirements, and compact materials.
• Assist with general labor tasks as needed.
• Use levels, lasers, grade rods, and other hand tools safely.
• Read and interpret grade stakes and project plans.
• Coordinate with Foreman and crew to complete tasks safely and efficiently.
• Follow all safety procedures for underground utilities and equipment.

Skills

Heavy machinery operation

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Alliance Construction is a locally owned and reliable general contractor serving Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas. We specialize in commercial earthwork projects, site preparation and development, street and highway work, demolition, and underground utilities.

With safety as our top priority, our crews work together to maintain productivity, efficiency, and a high standard of quality on every project.

Core Responsibilities

• Operate Heavy Machinery – Safely maneuver and operate equipment such as loaders, excavators, rollers, skid steers, and more to dig trenches for and around existing utilities.
• Machine Maintenance – Perform daily walk-around safety inspections, including greasing equipment, checking fluid levels, and connecting hydraulic hoses.
• Pipe Installation – Assist with aligning and installing pipes during construction, including wet utilities such as water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer. Connect pipes and seal joints using appropriate methods and materials, including glue, cement, gaskets, and/or flanges.
• Site & Trench Work – Grade and level trench bases and verify slopes meet project requirements. Place and compact aggregate or other earth materials around and over installed pipe. Perform trench preparation, maintain proper slopes and work safely around existing underground utilities and other jobsite obstacles.
• Occasional Hand Labor – Assist with general labor tasks as needed.
• Tools & Equipment – Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to safely use levels, lasers, grade rods, tamping machines, and other hand tools.
• Read Grade Stakes – Read and interpret construction stakes and/or electronic GPS monitors to determine how much material needs to be added or removed.
• Read & Understand Plans – Read and understand engineer plans, specifications, and applicable regulations.
• Crew Collaboration – Work closely with the Foreman and other crew members to safely and efficiently complete excavation, pipe installation, backfill and other project tasks.
• Safety – Follow all safety procedures and regulations, with particular attention to hazards such as underground utilities and other equipment.

Job Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver's license (CDL is a bonus, but not required!)
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen
• Ability to perform physically demanding work and work in all weather conditions
• Ability to withstand the constant bumps and jolts associated with operating heavy equipment
• Excellent hand, eye, and foot coordination to operate multiple pedals, levers, and computerized controls simultaneously
• Available Monday–Friday, with very minimal weekend work
• Ability to work on projects in town and potentially out of town at a drive-able distance

Why Alliance Construction?

• Competitive Weekly Pay
• Overtime Opportunities
• Benefits Package – Medical, Dental & Vision
• Paid Holidays & PTO
• Dependable, Well-Maintained Equipment
• Excellent Work/Life Balance
• Inclusive & Supportive Crew

Our Hiring Process

Once you submit your resume, we will review your qualifications. If you are selected to move forward, we will contact you for a brief phone interview. If your qualifications align with our needs, you will then meet with our team in person to discuss your experience, goals, and expectations for the position.

Ready to Join the Alliance Team?

Alliance Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.