Heavy equipment operator (wet utilities)

Job Summary: The Heavy Equipment Operator Wet Utilities Underground is responsible for the safe and precise operation of heavy construction equipment to perform trenching, excavation, grading, and installation of underground wet utility systems, including water, sewer, and storm drain infrastructure. This position plays a critical role in supporting the installation crews by ensuring accurate trench dimensions, maintaining safe work zones, and contributing to overall project efficiency. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, and able to work collaboratively in a fast-paced construction environment.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

The essential functions include, but are not limited to:

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, and skid steers for trenching, grading, material handling, backfilling, and site preparation.
• Excavate trenches to specified grades, slopes, and dimensions per blueprints, cut sheets, and supervisory direction.
• Work closely with pipelayers, foremen, and other crew members to ensure alignment with project requirements and safe trenching practices.
• Identify existing utilities before digging and take appropriate measures to avoid damage.
• Perform hand signals communication with ground personnel to ensure safety and accuracy in operations.
• Assist with labor-related duties when not actively operating equipment, including spotting, material staging, and jobsite cleanup.
• Conduct daily pre-operation and post-operation inspections of equipment to identify and address maintenance needs.
• Report mechanical issues, safety concerns, or site hazards promptly to the foreman or superintendent.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and ensure proper storage of tools and attachments.
• Follow all OSHA excavation and trench safety standards, including sloping, shoring, and confined space protocols.
• Adhere to company safety policies and actively participate in safety meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the foreman or superintendent to support project completion.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years verifiable experience operating heavy equipment in underground wet utility construction and with experience in hard demolition and grading is a plus.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting construction plans, grade stakes, and elevation benchmarks.
• Strong knowledge of excavation safety practices, equipment limitations, and trench safety systems.
• Ability to operate multiple types of equipment with precision and efficiency.
• Effective communication skills with both supervisors and crew members.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain.
• Reliable transportation to and from job sites.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification preferred.
• Trench Safety and/or Confined Space Entry Certification preferred
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Familiarity with various equipment attachments and their functions.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, climbing in and out of machinery, and working on uneven ground.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and perform repetitive motions.
• Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, wind).
• Visual acuity requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Exposure to moderate-to-loud noise levels; hearing protection may be required.
• Ability to travel to different job sites, occasionally requiring extended hours or weekend work.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance

Experience:

• Heavy equipment operation: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Corona, CA (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35 - $40