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Digger Derrick Operator (Utility / Pole Construction)

Empire Valorize, LLC
Ithaca, NY Full Time
POSTED ON 10/18/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/14/2027

Derrick Digger Operator

Location: New York State (Travel Required – Upstate NY Projects)
Department: Construction
Reports To: Construction Superintendent
Compensation: $90,000 to $120,000 annually in base. (Prevailing wage opportunities may apply on qualifying projects)

Position Summary

EV Solar is seeking a Class F Certified Derrick Digger Operator to support utility, infrastructure, and renewable energy construction projects throughout New York State.

This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of digger derrick equipment used for pole installation, pole removal, excavation, material handling, and utility support activities. The ideal candidate will have experience operating digger derrick or similar utility construction equipment and hold both a valid CDL and NYS NCCCO, Class A or Class F Hoisting Machine Operator License.

This role requires travel throughout New York State and the ability to work safely in active construction environments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Operate digger derrick equipment to perform:

  • Utility pole installation and removal
  • Pole drilling and foundation excavation
  • Surveillance and communication pole installation and removal
  • Material lifting and placement operations
  • Handling transformers, reclosers, utility hardware, and related components

Additional responsibilities include:

  • Conducting pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks, booms, augers, rigging, and safety devices
  • Safely operating augers, winches, and hydraulic systems
  • Reading and interpreting site plans, utility drawings, staking sheets, and work orders
  • Performing lift planning and verifying equipment capacities
  • Ensuring proper outrigger setup and equipment stabilization
  • Performing daily Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and participating in safety meetings
  • Coordinating with ground crews, signal persons, and supervisors during lifting and drilling activities
  • Inspecting rigging equipment and ensuring safe use of slings, chains, hooks, and lifting accessories
  • Maintaining equipment logs and inspection records
  • Traveling to project sites throughout New York State
  • Working overtime, weekends, or extended schedules as project needs require
  • Performing other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum three (3) years of experience operating digger derrick equipment or similar utility construction equipment
  • Knowledge of safe rigging and lifting practices
  • Ability to work outdoors and in active construction environments

Preferred Qualifications

  • Valid CDL Class A or B
  • Valid New York State NCCCO, Class A or Class F Machine Operator License/Certification
  • Valid DOT Medical Card
  • Experience with utility pole work, telecom, electrical distribution, or renewable energy construction
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification
  • NCCCO certification or equivalent operator training
  • First Aid / CPR certification
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting capability

Physical Requirements

  • Frequent climbing, lifting, kneeling, and standing
  • Ability to work at heights
  • Ability to operate heavy equipment for extended periods
  • Ability to work in rugged terrain and varying weather conditions
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation

Work Environment & Compensation

This position will support both prevailing wage and non-prevailing wage projects. Employees performing prevailing wage work will be compensated in accordance with applicable project wage schedules and classifications. Travel, overtime, and per diem compensation opportunities may apply depending on project requirements.

Benefits Package

Major Health, Dental and Vision

401K with Company Match

Short and Long Term Disability

Basic Life Insurance

Voluntary Life Insurance

Hospital, Critical and Accident Insurance

Paid Holidays

Paid Time Off

Per Diem Benefits

and many more....

Equal Opportunity Employer: EV Solar, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. EV Solar, LLC strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, other protected classes recognized by applicable state or local law, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. All Empire Valorize, LLC employees, other workers, and representatives are prohibited from engaging in unlawful discrimination. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, training, promotion, discipline, compensation, benefits, and termination of employment.

Pay: $90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

  • This position requires travel throughout New York State. Are you willing and able to travel for project work?

Experience:

  • operating digger derrick or similar equipment: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

  • CDL Class A or CDL Class B (Required)
  • DOT Medical Card (Required)
  • NYS Class A or Class F Hoisting Machine Operator License (Required)

Work Location: On the road

Salary : $90,000 - $120,000

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