Pipelayer – Underground Utilities Construction

Ella-Sa-Contracting; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Ella-Sa-Contracting seeks a skilled Pipelayer to install and align pipes for underground water, sewer, and drainage systems, ensuring proper grading and compliance with safety standards.

The role requires 2+ years of hands-on trenching and pipe installation experience, reading blueprints, and working outdoors in varied conditions. Collaboration with operators, foremen, and laborers is essential to meet project milestones.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Pipelayer or in underground utility construction.
• Knowledge of pipe materials (PVC, ductile iron, concrete) and installation techniques.
• Familiarity with trenching, shoring, and safety requirements.
• Ability to read blueprints, plans, and grade stakes.
• Strong physical stamina and ability to work in outdoor environments.

Responsibilities

• Install and align pipes for underground systems including water mains, sewer lines, and storm drains.
• Cut, bevel, and join pipes using appropriate tools and techniques.
• Ensure proper grading and slope for drainage and flow.
• Inspect and test pipe installations for leaks, defects, and alignment issues.
• Excavate trenches and prepare ground surfaces for pipe laying.
• Backfill trenches and compact soil after installation.
• Operate or assist with heavy equipment such as excavators and loaders.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe worksite.
• Follow OSHA regulations and company safety protocols at all times.
• Use required PPE and conform to trench and confined-space safety procedures.
• Participate in safety meetings and promptly report hazards or incidents.
• Work closely with equipment operators, laborers, and foremen to ensure project success.
• Follow instructions from supervisors to meet deadlines and quality standards.
• Support additional tasks such as setting manholes and pouring concrete.

Skills

Pipe installation

Blueprint reading

Trenching

Shoring

Grade stakes reading

Physical stamina

Tools

Laser levels

Job description

Position Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Pipelayer to join our underground utilities construction team. This role involves installing and aligning pipes for water, sewer, storm drainage, and other utility systems in accordance with project specifications and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience in trenching, grading, and pipe installation, and thrive in a collaborative, outdoor work environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Pipe Installation

• Install and align pipes for underground systems including water mains, sewer lines, and storm drains.
• Cut, bevel, and join pipes using appropriate tools and techniques.
• Ensure proper grading and slope for optimal drainage and flow.
• Inspect and test pipe installations for leaks, defects, and alignment issues.

Site Preparation & Maintenance

• Excavate trenches and prepare ground surfaces for pipe laying.
• Backfill trenches and compact soil following installation.
• Operate or assist with heavy equipment such as excavators and loaders.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe worksite.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow OSHA regulations and company safety protocols at all times.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to confined space and trench safety procedures.
• Participate in safety meetings and promptly report hazards or incidents.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with equipment operators, laborers, and foremen to ensure efficient project execution.
• Follow instructions from supervisors and project managers to meet deadlines and quality standards.
• Support additional tasks as needed, including setting manholes, pouring concrete, and operating power tools.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years experience as a Pipelayer or in underground utility construction.
• Knowledge of pipe materials (PVC, ductile iron, concrete) and installation techniques.
• Familiarity with trenching, shoring, and safety requirements.
• Ability to read blueprints, plans, and grade stakes.
• Strong physical stamina and ability to work in outdoor environments.

Preferred:

• Experience using laser levels or other pipe alignment tools.
• Knowledge of confined space entry and rescue procedures.
• Safety certifications such as OSHA 10/30 and trench safety training.

Work Environment:

• Outdoor job sites in varying weather conditions.
• Exposure to construction hazards including heavy equipment and uneven terrain.
• Frequent bending, lifting, and working in confined spaces or trenches.