Underground Utilities Excavator Operator: Deep Trenches & Pipe Install

Sterling Construction Company, Inc.; El Paso (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Construction Company, Inc. in El Paso, TX, is seeking an experienced excavator operator to perform trenching and underground utility installations. You will safely operate excavators, follow grade and plans, and coordinate with pipe crews while maintaining production and safety standards.

The role emphasizes working around trench boxes, shoring systems, and various underground structures, with daily equipment checks and a focus on efficiency and accuracy on heavy civil sites.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license.
• At least two years of experience operating large excavators in heavy civil construction.
• Experience performing excavation and trenching for underground utilities, including storm and/or sanitary systems.
• Experience operating larger excavators for deep trench excavation, pipe installation, and structure placement.
• Ability to excavate to line and grade and safely perform deep trench excavation.
• Experience working around trench boxes, shoring systems, and properly sloped excavations.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators to perform excavation and trenching for underground storm and sanitary utility installations.
• Excavate trenches to required line, grade, depth, and width while maintaining accuracy and production.
• Perform deep excavations while maintaining proper slopes and safe working conditions based on soil and site conditions.
• Work safely and efficiently around trench boxes, shoring systems, existing utilities, personnel, and other equipment.
• Prepare trenches and place bedding material to support proper pipe installation.
• Assist crews with the safe placement and installation of PVC, large-diameter RCP, and other underground utility pipe.
• Support the installation and placement of manholes, junction boxes, inlets, and other underground structures using precise equipment control.
• Handle pipe and structures carefully and accurately to prevent damage during installation.
• Coordinate closely with pipe crews, spotters, grade personnel, and other operators using hand signals and established communication procedures.
• Excavate, stockpile, and manage material to keep utility installation operations moving efficiently.
• Support backfill operations by placing and processing material in appropriate lifts following pipe and structure installation.
• Read and follow grade stakes, plans, elevations, and other project specifications to maintain proper line and grade.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance, including fueling, lubricating, cleaning, and identifying potential mechanical or safety concerns.
• Follow all company and project safety requirements while maintaining awareness of changing trench and jobsite conditions.

Job description

Sterling Construction Company, Inc. in El Paso, TX, is seeking an experienced excavator operator to perform trenching and underground utility installations. You will safely operate excavators, follow grade and plans, and coordinate with pipe crews while maintaining production and safety standards.

The role emphasizes working around trench boxes, shoring systems, and various underground structures, with daily equipment checks and a focus on efficiency and accuracy on heavy civil sites.