Underground Lead

American Rooter & Drain; Caldwell (ID); On-site; USD 39,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rooter & Drain is seeking an Underground Lead to run excavation operations supporting plumbing and drain installations. You will lead a small crew, operate excavation equipment, and ensure every job is completed safely, on spec, and in compliance with code.

The role requires hands-on supervision of 1–3 apprentices or laborers, precise trenching and site prep, and a commitment to safety. This is a full-time position based in Caldwell, ID.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required with 1–3 years of excavation experience.
• Valid Idaho driver's license required.
• Excavator Operator Certification required or obtained within 90 days of hire.
• First Aid/CPR and OSHA 10-Hour certifications are a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, work orders, and manuals.
• Strong math skills for measurements, slopes, depths.

Responsibilities

• Direct the daily work of the excavation crew (1–3 apprentices or laborers) to keep projects on schedule.
• Perform trenching, tunneling, and site prep for underground plumbing and drain work.
• Operate and maintain excavation machinery with pre- and post-use inspections.
• Enforce safety protocols and trenching standards, including utility locates and protective systems.
• Coordinate with dispatchers, technicians, and field supervisors to execute the daily plan.
• Ensure trench depth, slope, alignment, and bedding meet code, then backfill and clean the site.
• Represent the company professionally on-site and build customer confidence.
• Mentor Apprentices and help them develop skills.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Valid Idaho Driver's License

Excavator Operator Certification

First Aid/CPR

OSHA 10-Hour

Reading safety rules

Math skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Excavation machinery (mini-excavators, trenchers)

Job description

Underground Lead / Underground Foreman / Excavation Foreman / Excavation Lead

American Rooter & Drain | 1005 Commercial Way, Caldwell, ID 83605 | Full-Time

About The Role

American Rooter & Drain is hiring an Underground Lead to run excavation operations that support our plumbing and drain installation work. You'll lead a small crew, operate excavation equipment, and make sure every job is done safely, on spec, and to code.

What You'll Do

• Direct the daily work of your excavation crew, including 1 to 3 Apprentices or Laborers, and keep jobs moving on schedule.
• Perform and supervise trenching, tunneling, and site prep for underground plumbing and drain work.
• Operate and maintain excavation machinery (mini-excavators, trenchers, etc.), including pre- and post-use inspections.
• Enforce safety protocols and trenching standards, including utility locates and proper protective systems.
• Coordinate with dispatchers, technicians, and field supervisors to execute the daily work plan.
• Make sure trench depth, slope, alignment, and bedding meet code and spec , then backfill and clean up the site properly.
• Represent the company professionally on-site and build customer confidence in the work.
• Mentor Apprentices and help them build their skills.

What You'll Need

• High school diploma or GED, plus 1 to 3 years of excavation-related experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). Prior lead or supervisory experience is a plus but not required.
• Valid Idaho Driver's License (required).
• Excavator Operator Certification (required or must be obtained within 90 days of hire).
• First Aid/CPR and OSHA 10-Hour certifications are a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, work orders, and manuals, and communicate clearly with customers and coworkers.
• Comfortable with basic math (measurements, slopes, depths) and solving jobsite problems using sound judgment.

Physical Requirements

This is a highly physical, outdoor role. Expect near-constant standing, walking, bending, and lifting of 50+ lbs., along with hands-on equipment operation in all weather conditions. You'll be working around machinery and vibration, on wet or muddy sites, and near underground utilities , proper safety equipment is required at all times.

Our Values

We're looking for someone who maintains a good attitude, takes ownership of problems before escalating them, and represents the company well, even in tough situations. Honesty, mutual respect, and taking pride in a clean, well-run worksite matter here.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Background Check Authorization

By signing this form, you authorize American Rooter & Drain to conduct a criminal background check. This check will include verification of your identity, address history, and any criminal records. The findings of this background check may affect your eligibility for employment with American Rooter & Drain. Your signature below confirms that the information provided is truthful and accurate.

Drug Screening Disclaimer

American Rooter & Drain is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free workplace. As part of our hiring process, all candidates are required to undergo a drug screening test. This test will check for the presence of illegal substances and may include testing for prescription medications that could impair your ability to perform your job duties safely. By signing this form, you consent to the drug screening and understand that a positive result may disqualify you from employment with American Rooter & Drain.