Utility Excavator Operator

David A. Bramble, Inc.; Chestertown (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Overtime opportunities

Job summary

David A. Bramble, Inc. is seeking a Utility Crew Operator to safely operate excavators on water, sewer, storm, and underground utility projects. You will work with foremen and crews to follow plans, specs, and safety policies while maintaining an efficient workflow.

The role requires prior excavator experience on utility projects, knowledge of underground installation processes, and strong teamwork and communication skills. OSHA-focused safety and reliable performance on site are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Previous experience operating an excavator on utility projects.
• Knowledge of underground utility installation processes.
• Ability to understand hand/repeater signals and communicate effectively with crew.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavator in daily operations.
• Assist with installation, repair, and replacement of underground utilities (water mains, sewer lines, storm drains, duct banks).
• Perform trenching, shoring installation, grading, backfilling, and compaction operations.
• Load, unload, and move materials, pipes, and equipment safely.
• Work around buried utilities while maintaining awareness of jobsite hazards.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance.
• Coordinate movements with ground crew to ensure safe operations.
• Read and follow grade stakes, utility markings, and site plans.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Comply with OSHA regulations, trench safety requirements, and company safety policies.

Skills

Excavator operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

OSHA-10/OSHA-30

Job description

The Utility Crew Operator is responsible for operating excavators from small to large supporting utility installation and repair projects, including water, sewer, storm, and underground infrastructure. This role works closely with foremen, pipe layers, and laborers to safely and efficiently complete projects in accordance with plans, specifications, and safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate excavator in daily operations
• Assist with installation, repair, and replacement of underground utilities (water mains, sewer lines, storm
  drains, duct banks)
• Perform trenching, shoring installation, grading, backfilling, and compaction operations
• Load, unload, and move materials, pipes, and equipment safely
• Work around buried utilities while maintaining awareness of jobsite hazards
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance
• Coordinate movements with ground crew to ensure safe operations
• Read and follow grade stakes, utility markings, and site plans
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Comply with OSHA regulations, trench safety requirements, and company safety policies

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
• Previous experience operating an excavator on utility projects
• Knowledge of underground utility installation processes
• Ability to understand hand/repeater signals and communicate effectively with crew members
• Strong awareness of jobsite safety and hazard prevention
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow supervisory directions

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to sit, stand, climb, bend, and kneel for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs as required
• Good hand-eye coordination and depth perception
• Active construction sites and roadways
• Exposure to noise, vibration, heavy machinery, and traffic
• May require early morning starts, overtime, nights, or weekends depending on project schedules

Preferred Certifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• Trench Safety / Excavation Safety Training
• Equipment-specific certifications
• Competitive hourly wage based on experience
• Overtime opportunities
• Health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off

Every single David A. Bramble, Inc. employee
moves our company forward.

Piece by piece, road by road, person by by person.
Together we create sustainable solutions that impact the communities in which we live.

David A. Bramble Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. Veterans welcome.

Due to the nature of our work and the safety-sensitive jobs we offer, all employees are required to pass pre-employment and routine periodic drug testing. We currently comply with all federal Drug-Free workplace laws and have a Zero-Tolerance drug policy in place, which also prohibits the usage of prescription and recreational marijuana.