Rock Wheel & Micro Trench Operator

VCI Construction; San Marcos (CA); On-site; USD 34,440 - 44,083; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly paychecks

Paid time off

401(k) with company match

Education reimbursement

Job summary

A dynamic construction firm is seeking a skilled Rock Wheel & Micro Trench Operator to join its team in San Marcos, CA. Responsibilities include operating heavy machinery for trench excavation, ensuring safety compliance, and performing site restoration. Ideal candidates should have experience in utility construction, a commitment to safety, and physical stamina. The position offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $25 to $32 based on experience.

Qualifications

• 18 years or older with authorization to work in the US.
• Valid driver’s license, CDL preferred.
• Experience operating rock wheels and micro trenchers is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate rock wheel and micro trenchers.
• Perform pre-operational inspections and equipment maintenance.
• Work with utility markings to avoid existing underground utilities.
• Coordinate actions with crew using hand signals.
• Assist with site cleanup and restoration.
• Adhere to safety protocols and maintain documentation.

Skills

Operating heavy machinery

Mechanical aptitude

Team collaboration

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Rock wheels

Micro trenchers

Job description

Overview

Join to apply for the Rock Wheel & Micro Trench Operator role at VCI Construction. VCI Construction is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Rock Wheel and Micro Trench Operator to join our dynamic team. This position is responsible for operating specialized heavy equipment to excavate shallow and narrow trenches for the installation of fiber optic cables and other utilities. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating rock wheels and micro trenchers, a strong understanding of utility construction, and a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards.

Benefits

• Weekly Paychecks
• Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
• Insurance (medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
• 401(k) w/ Company Match
• Stock Purchase Plan
• Education Reimbursement
• Legal Insurance
• Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more

Responsibilities

• Equipment Operation: Safely and efficiently operate rock wheel trenchers, micro trenchers, and other heavy equipment to cut and excavate trenches in various terrain, including concrete and asphalt.
• Site Preparation: Perform pre-operational inspections and conduct basic maintenance on equipment, including cleaning, lubricating and monitoring fluid levels.
• Utility Avoidance: Work with utility locate markings and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to navigate around existing underground utilities, ensuring no damage occurs.
• Team Collaboration: Coordinate machine actions with crew members using hand signals or audio communication to ensure seamless and safe project execution.
• Site Restoration: Assist with site cleanup and restoration, including backfilling trenches and patching asphalt or concrete to restore the surface.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere to all company safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following traffic control procedures, and complying with OSHA standards.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of trenching footage, materials used, ground conditions, and equipment maintenance logs.

What You’ll Need

• To be 18 years of age or older
• Authorization to work in the United States for this company
• High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
• Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable driving record
• Experience with drill setup and design processes is preferred
• Proven experience operating equipment, with specific experience in rock wheel and micro trenching operations preferred. Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machinery.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and the ability to operate equipment with precision.
• Physical stamina to withstand the demands of the job, including working in various weather conditions and lifting heavy materials.
• Valid driver's license; Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus.
• Experience in towing heavy trailers is preferred.
• A strong commitment to workplace safety and a history of following safety regulations.
• Basic computer skills for record-keeping and communication.

Physical Abilities & Exposures

• Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle and heavy machinery, squeeze, fine hand motions, bend, stoop, stand, walk, climb stairs and lift greater than 55 pounds
• Occasionally: work in confined spaces, use ladder, keyboard and mouse

Salary

Salary Range $25 - $32 / hour (D.O.E.)

Why work with us

Your career here is more than just a job — it\'s your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.

Building stronger solutions together

Diversity and inclusion are an essential part of our culture and success. Our company is an equal-opportunity employer — we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.