Skilled Excavator Operator

Job Title: Skilled Excavator Operator

Department: Operations and Support

Job Summary:

The Skilled Excavator Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining hydraulic track excavators and related heavy equipment to perform digging, lifting, grading, and general earthmoving tasks. This position also assists with mechanical and welding work, equipment upkeep, and shop maintenance activities. The operator will conduct daily inspections before each shift, ensure safe and efficient operation, and perform basic measurement and layout checks to maintain accuracy on job sites. Additional duties include assisting with striping, traffic control, and supporting other operational needs as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Assist with the training and onboarding of new equipment operators.
• Support constructive and timely performance evaluations.
• Help manage team scheduling and task completion to ensure operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform daily pre-start inspections of excavators and related equipment, ensuring all systems—especially hydraulic, electrical, and safety components—are functioning properly.
• Operate hydraulic track excavators to perform digging, trenching, lifting, grading, and backfilling activities according to job specifications.
• Read and interpret site plans, perform basic measurements for depth, slope, and alignment to ensure work accuracy.
• Operate additional heavy equipment as needed, including loaders, backhoes, graders, forklifts, and dump trucks.
• Perform routine maintenance and assist in minor mechanical repairs to maintain peak equipment performance.
• Support welding and fabrication tasks as needed for equipment repair and reinforcement.
• Safely lift and move heavy materials, following all load capacity and rigging safety standards.
• Maintain accurate logs of inspections, maintenance, and operational activities.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety procedures, using proper PPE and maintaining situational awareness at all times.
• Assist with striping, traffic control, and other support duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Proficient in written and oral communication according to job requirements.
• Strong computer literacy, with the ability to read, write, and comprehend written and digital instructional documents.
• Ability to perform effectively in fast-paced and sometimes high-pressure environments.
• Mechanical knowledge and understanding of hydraulic systems required.
• Experience in welding and equipment repair preferred.
• Strong focus on safety, teamwork, and equipment efficiency.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related heavy equipment operation experience, including excavator operation.
• Demonstrated understanding of job site safety procedures and compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.
• Familiarity with preventive maintenance practices on a range of construction vehicles and equipment.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts with two weeks’ notice and to perform duties outdoors in varied and extreme weather conditions.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting while operating excavators and heavy equipment.
• Frequent standing, bending, reaching, and manual handling of tools and materials.
• Exposure to loud noises, dust, dirt, and weather elements.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Ability to see and hear clearly to meet safety and operational standards.

Special Qualifications/Requirements:

• Must successfully pass all required federal, state, or local background investigations.
• Must hold a valid state driver’s license and a Class A CDL.