Excavator Operator – Septic System Installation

Job Summary

Hemley’s Septic Service is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator – Septic System Installation to join our septic installation and repair team. This position is responsible for safely operating excavation equipment, leading septic system installations, drainfield work, repairs, site preparation, backfilling, grading, and related underground utility work.

The ideal candidate possesses a valid CDL A license, experience operating heavy equipment in residential and commercial settings, understands job-site safety, works well with a crew, can complete physical labor as needed, and takes pride in completing clean, professional septic installations.

This position requires someone who can follow plans and directions, work efficiently in varying site conditions, and help ensure each job is completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with company standards.

About Us

Established in 1962, Hemley’s Septic Service is a family-owned and operated business in Gig Harbor, Washington. We provide professional septic and drain services to residential and commercial properties throughout Kitsap, Mason, and Pierce counties. Our dedicated team at Hemley’s cares deeply about providing our customers with fast, friendly, and reliable services.

We are looking for someone who wants to be part of a dependable team and contribute to high-quality septic installation work in the communities we serve.

Job Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavation equipment, including excavators, mini-excavators, skid steers, loaders, dump trucks, pump trucks, and other job site equipment.
• Lead septic system installations, repairs, drainfield work, tank setting, trenching, grading, compaction, and backfilling.
• Read and follow directions from septic designers, supervisors, and installation plans.
• Excavate around existing septic systems, utilities, structures, landscaping, and other sensitive areas with care.
• Prepare job sites for installation work by clearing, digging, leveling, and placing materials.
• Assist with setting septic tanks, pump chambers, distribution boxes, piping, drainfield materials, and related system components.
• Perform finish grading and site cleanup to leave job sites neat and professional.
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and basic mechanical troubleshooting on equipment.
• Load, unload, transport, and organize equipment, tools, pipe, gravel, chambers, and other materials.
• Follow all company safety policies, excavation safety practices, and applicable local regulations.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors, crew members, office staff, inspectors, and customers when needed.
• Assist with general labor duties when not operating equipment.
• Represent Hemley’s Septic Service in a professional, respectful manner on customer properties.

Qualifications

• 3 years of experience operating excavation equipment, prior septic installations, drainfield construction, or utility trenching.
• Proficient in reading septic design plans, site maps, elevations, and grade requirements.
• Deep expertise in earthwork, site grading, and precise ground preparation.
• Experience setting tanks, installing pipe, working with chambers, gravel systems, pressure systems, or pump systems.
• Familiarity with laser levels, transit levels, pipe slopes, and basic grade layout.
• Strong working knowledge of Pierce, Kitsap, or Mason County septic installation regulations and compliance standards.
• Strict adherence to job site safety, equipment safety, and OSHA standards.
• Ability to work outdoors comfortably in various weather and rugged terrain conditions.
• Physical capability to repeatedly lift 75 lbs and engage in strenuous physical labor, including the fluent operation of hand and power tools.
• Strong organization, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Capable of working effectively independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• A strong customer-service orientation with a proactive attitude toward learning and long-term growth with the company.

Nice to Have

• Valid CDL Class A license with a clean driving record.

Compensation and Benefits

• $30.00 - $36.00 per hour (Depending on experience)
• Medical/Vision/Dental – 75% Paid by Employer
• 401k with 4% Employer Matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Bridge Toll Fees
• Clothing Allowance

Application Steps

To be considered for our Excavator Operator – Septic System Installation position, please submit your application to hr@hemleyseptic.com. Please put “Excavator Operator – Septic System Installation” in the Subject line of your email.

If we accept your application, we’ll be in touch to schedule an interview. We look forward to hearing from you.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, or qualifications required for the role.

Pay: $30.00 - $36.00 per hour

Benefits:

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

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30 - $36