Underground Operator 1

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

Job summary

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

You will trench, bore, excavate, and place conduit and fiber systems while reading prints and locates. A CDL is preferred, and travel to multiple job sites is required. Strong safety awareness and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience operating underground construction equipment required.
• Ability to read construction prints and utility markings; willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as directional bore machines, mini excavators, backhoes, trenchers and other underground construction gear.
• 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 to avoid service disruptions.
• Assist with placing conduit, handholes, vaults and pedestals.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.
• Complete required paperwork and job documentation accurately.
• Travel to various job sites as required.

Skills

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Problem solving

Reading construction prints

Manual dexterity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CDL preferred

Job description

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

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