Utility Track Hoe Operator

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. is seeking a highly experienced Utility Track Hoe Operator to support underground utility construction projects.

This senior-level role requires proven experience working in deep utility excavations and around trench protection systems. You will operate excavators equipped for underground utility work and collaborate with crews to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and to the highest quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience operating heavy equipment in a construction setting preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Operate track hoe/excavator for underground utility installations (water, sewer, storm, and pipelines).
• Excavate trenches exceeding 8–10 feet in depth with safety and grade accuracy.
• Set up and work around trench boxes and shoring systems safely.
• Maintain equipment and perform basic repairs as needed.
• Communicate with crew members and subcontractors to stay on schedule and within budget.
• Identify and resolve issues that arise during construction projects.

Skills

Strong communication

Safety orientation

Blueprint reading

Analytical thinking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Vocational training in heavy equipment operation

Tools

Track Hoe/ excavator operation

Basic equipment maintenance

Job description

We are seeking a highly experienced Utility Track Hoe Operator to support underground utility construction projects. This role is for senior-level operators only—candidates must have proven experience working in deep utility excavations and around trench protection systems. Safety, precision, and efficiency are critical in this position. The successful candidate will operate excavators equipped for underground utility work and collaborate closely with crews to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and to the highest quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate track hoe / excavator for underground utility installations, including water, sewer, storm, and other pipeline work
• Excavate trenches exceeding 8–10 feet in depth while maintaining safety and grade accuracy
• Pull, set, and work around trench boxes and shoring systems safely and efficiently
• Ensure that all work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest level of quality
• Maintain equipment and perform basic repairs as needed
• Communicate regularly with other crew members and subcontractors to ensure that work is completed on schedule and within budget
• Develop and maintain relationships with crew members and subcontractors to ensure that they are aware of project schedules and deadlines
• Ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and that safety procedures are followed at all times
• Identify and resolve issues that arise during construction projects
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in heavy equipment operation preferred
• 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment, with experience in a construction setting preferred
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze project data and identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Experience with government contracts and compliance is a plus

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. (ESS) is all about owning what we do from start to finish. We’re a 100% employee-owned multi-faceted contractor who thrives on delivering complex heavy civil projects by developing innovative infrastructure solutions. Our growing team of employee-owners are experts in grading, excavation, underground utilities, bridge construction, asphalt paving, concrete paving, and pavement preservation.