Utility Excavation Tech: Heavy Equipment Operator

Aerotek; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) plan

Life Insurance

Job summary

Aerotek in Charleston, SC seeks a Utility Operator to operate hydraulic excavators for underground utility construction, focusing on precise trenching and safe coordination with pipe crews. The role is contract-to-hire and onsite in Charleston.

The ideal candidate has at least 2 years of excavator experience, reads plans, and follows trench safety standards. Benefits include medical, dental, vision and a 401(k) plan, with weekly pay.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating excavators in underground utility construction.
• Experience excavating for sanitary sewer, storm drainage, waterline, and other utility projects.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, lasers, GPS guidance, and utility drawings.
• Strong knowledge of trenching and excavation techniques and best practices for utility installation.
• Solid understanding of excavation safety, trench safety standards, and utility locating procedures.
• Proficiency operating hydraulic excavators, trackhoes, and related heavy equipment in civil and utility construction settings.
• Ability to work effectively with utility crews, pipe crews, and supervisors in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to completing projects safely and on schedule.

Responsibilities

• Operate hydraulic excavators and other heavy equipment to excavate trenches for utilities.
• Perform precise excavation and grading per plans.
• Safely excavate around underground utilities and structures.
• Install trench boxes and shoring as required for safe trench conditions.
• Assist pipe crews with placement of pipes, manholes, and fittings.
• Load and move materials using appropriate equipment.
• Maintain trench width, depth, and slope per specs.
• Guide excavation using grade stakes, lasers, and GPS.
• Coordinate with ground personnel and utility crews during operations.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.

Skills

Excavator operation

Trench excavation

Reading plans & GPS

Safety compliance

Team collaboration

Reliability

Tools

GPS

Lasers

Grade stakes

Shoring systems

Job description

Aerotek in Charleston, SC seeks a Utility Operator to operate hydraulic excavators for underground utility construction, focusing on precise trenching and safe coordination with pipe crews. The role is contract-to-hire and onsite in Charleston.

The ideal candidate has at least 2 years of excavator experience, reads plans, and follows trench safety standards. Benefits include medical, dental, vision and a 401(k) plan, with weekly pay.