Underground Operator 1

Sunrise Telecom Inc; Richmond (IN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunrise Telecom Inc. is seeking an Underground Operator I to safely operate heavy equipment for installing, maintaining, and repairing underground telecommunications infrastructure.

The role covers trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems for network construction projects. Candidates should have prior experience with underground construction equipment, read prints, and hold a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred and considered a baseline.
• Previous experience operating underground construction equipment is required.
• Experience in telecommunications or utility construction is preferred.
• Ability to read construction prints and utility markings.
• Valid driver's license; CDL preferred if applicable.
• Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift 50+ lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate underground construction equipment such as directional bore machines, mini excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and other underground construction equipment.
• Perform safe excavation for fiber, conduit, and utility installations.
• Read and interpret utility locates, site drawings, and construction plans.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including OSHA and company policies.
• Maintain awareness of existing underground utilities and avoid service disruptions.
• Assist with placing conduit, handholes, vaults, and pedestals.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.
• Communicate effectively with crew members, supervisors, and project managers.
• Complete required paperwork and job documentation accurately.
• Travel to various job sites as required.

Skills

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Underground utility safety practices

Mechanical knowledge of equipment

Read construction prints

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary

The Underground Operator I is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to install, maintain, and repair underground telecommunications infrastructure. This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects.

The Underground Operator I is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to install, maintain, and repair underground telecommunications infrastructure. This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate equipment such as directional bore machines, mini excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and other underground construction equipment
• Perform safe excavation for fiber, conduit, and utility installations
• Read and interpret utility locates, site drawings, and construction plans
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including OSHA and company policies
• Maintain awareness of existing underground utilities and avoid service disruptions
• Assist with placing conduit, handholes, vaults, and pedestals
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Communicate effectively with crew members, supervisors, and project managers
• Complete required paperwork and job documentation accurately
• Travel to various job sites as required

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required
• Experience in telecommunications or utility construction preferred
• Ability to read construction prints and utility markings
• Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred, if applicable)
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks

Required Skills

• Strong safety awareness and attention to detail
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of underground utility safety practices
• Basic mechanical knowledge of equipment

Working Conditions

• Outdoor construction environment
• Exposure to weather, noise, and construction-related hazards
• May require overtime, weekends, and travel