Senior Excavation Equipment Operator – Road & Utilities

Knife River Corporation; Magna (UT); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Retirement plan options

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Knife River Corporation is seeking an Experienced Excavation Equipment Operator to join our field team in Utah. You will operate excavators, loaders, and related heavy equipment to perform earth-moving tasks for road construction, utilities, and site development projects.

The role requires 3–5 years of hands-on equipment operation, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to read plans and grade stakes. Strong safety awareness and teamwork are essential, with opportunities for advancement based

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience operating excavation equipment in construction.
• Ability to read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and utility markings.
• Knowledge of GPS/grade control systems (Trimble, Topcon) is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license required; pre-employment drug screen and background check.
• Physical ability to lift 50+ lbs and work outdoors in varying conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy excavation equipment (excavators, loaders, dozers) safely and efficiently.
• Excavate trenches for footings and utilities (water, sewer, gas).
• Grade, slope, and backfill to meet plan elevations.
• Interpret construction drawings, blueprints, and grade stakes.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance.
• Collaborate with crew members (pipelayers, grade checkers, spotters) and communicate clearly.

Skills

Excavation equipment

Plans & grade stakes

GPS/grade control

Driver's license

Drug screen

Physical ability

Tools

Trimble GPS

Topcon GPS

Job description

Knife River Corporation is seeking an Experienced Excavation Equipment Operator to join our field team in Utah. You will operate excavators, loaders, and related heavy equipment to perform earth-moving tasks for road construction, utilities, and site development projects.

The role requires 3–5 years of hands-on equipment operation, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to read plans and grade stakes. Strong safety awareness and teamwork are essential, with opportunities for advancement based