Utility Track Hoe Operator Springfield, MO, Springfield, MO Heavy Equipment Operator

ESS Companies; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

ESS Companies in Springfield, MO is seeking a highly experienced Utility Track Hoe Operator for underground utility construction projects. This senior role requires proven experience with deep excavations and trench protection systems, strong safety discipline, precision and efficiency on site.

You will operate excavators for water, sewer, and pipeline work, digging trenches 8–10 ft deep, installing trench boxes, and coordinating with crews to keep projects on schedule and within budget.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in heavy equipment operation preferred.
• 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment in construction settings.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications.
• Strong communication and analytical skills; ability to work with diverse teams.
• Experience with government contracts and compliance is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate track hoe/excavator for underground utility installations (water, sewer, storm, and other pipelines).
• Excavate trenches 8–10 feet deep while maintaining safety and grade accuracy.
• Pull, set, and work around trench boxes and shoring systems safely and efficiently.
• Complete work safely, efficiently, and to a high quality standard.
• Maintain equipment and perform basic repairs as needed.
• Communicate regularly with crew members and subcontractors to meet schedules and budgets.
• Develop and maintain relationships with crew and subcontractors to ensure awareness of schedules and deadlines.
• Ensure equipment is well maintained and safety procedures are followed at all times.
• Identify and resolve issues that arise during construction projects.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Read construction plans

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Government contracts experience (plus)

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Vocational training in heavy equipment operation

Job description

Utility Track Hoe OperatorWe use cookies to make the safest and most effective website possible.# Careers## Utility Track Hoe OperatorApply: Springfield, MO: Full time: Posted Yesterday: End Date: December 4, 2026 (28 days left to apply): JR3543We 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 plusEqual Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesThe 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)