Excavator Operator Job Description

Department:

Field Operations – Civil / Underground Utilities

Reports To:

Foreman / Superintendent

Location:

Columbus & New Albany, OH (data-center and site development projects)

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt / Hourly

Position Summary

The Lead Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to perform deep utility trenching, grading, and underground conduit or duct-bank installation for data-center and large-scale site development projects. This position requires precision, safety awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively with field crews in a fast-paced, high-standard construction environment.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

- Operate hydraulic excavators and related equipment for trenching, backfilling, grading, and material handling.
 - Excavate for installation of utilities such as storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water mains, and underground duct banks.
 - Use GPS or laser-grade control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica) to maintain grade tolerances.
 - Load and unload materials safely, maintaining awareness of swing radius and load capacity.
 - Perform daily equipment inspections, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.

Safety & Compliance

- Follow company safety policies and OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) standards.
 - Participate in daily Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and toolbox meetings.
 - Maintain awareness of underground and overhead utilities.
 - Properly set and remove trench boxes, slide-rail systems, or shoring equipment.
 - Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or equipment issues immediately.

Team Collaboration

- Work closely with laborers, foremen, and pipe crews to achieve accurate trench depths, slopes, and alignments.
 - Communicate effectively with ground personnel and follow hand signals or radio directions.
 - Assist in layout verification and grade checks.
 - Support other site operations (grading, loading, compacting) as needed.

Qualifications

Required:

- Minimum 5 years (or 10,000 hours) operating heavy excavation equipment.
 - Experience with deep utility trenching (10 ft depth) and trench safety systems.
 - Working knowledge of GPS or laser-guided systems.
 - Current OSHA 10-hour certification (30-hour preferred).
 - Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and trench layouts.
 - Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
 - Willingness to comply with drug and background screening per company and site requirements.

Preferred:

- Competent Person certification for trenching and excavation.
 - Experience in data-center, mission-critical, or large industrial projects.
 - Familiarity with duct-bank installation and vault placement.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to operate equipment safely for extended periods (8–10 hours per day).
 - Frequent climbing on/off equipment and bending to inspect trench or grade conditions.
 - Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
 - Must be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment

- Outdoor construction sites with exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise.
 - May require overtime, weekend work, or night shifts.
 - Projects are primarily located in Columbus and New Albany, Ohio.

Compensation & Benefits

- Competitive hourly wage.
 - Overtime and shift differential opportunities.
 - Health, dental, and vision insurance.
 - 401(k) with company match.
 - Paid holidays and time off.
 - Training and advancement opportunities.