Equipment Operator

Company Overview

Benchmark is a premier design‑build, site and underground utility construction firm, completing over 500 projects spanning more than ten years. With a heavy focus on mission‑critical facilities, our teams collaborate seamlessly to ensure our customers receive the highest level of service in the construction industry. At Benchmark, our success is fueled by our exceptional workforce. We prioritize training and professional development, encouraging our team to expand and enhance their unique skills so they can fully realize their potential.

Position Summary

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earth‑moving tasks in support of utility construction and site‑work projects. This role involves operating a range of heavy equipment—primarily medium to large‑size excavators—to dig trenches, move materials, set structures and pipes, and prepare sites for utility installation. The Operator works closely with the crew to ensure precision, safety, and productivity in all phases of excavation work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, mini‑excavators, loaders, and related earth‑moving equipment for trenching, excavation, and backfill.
• Perform precise excavation around live utilities, maintaining strict adherence to safety and Miss Utility guidelines.
• Conduct daily pre‑ and post‑operation equipment inspections, perform routine maintenance (fueling, lubrication, fluid checks), and report any issues immediately.
• Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times.
• Assist the crew with trench preparation, pipe installation, backfill, and site cleanup when not operating equipment.
• Communicate clearly with spotters and crew members using hand signals and radios to ensure safe coordination.
• Load, unload, and position materials and trench boxes safely using proper rigging techniques.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area; follow company and OSHA safety standards.
• Document equipment use, inspections, and fuel logs accurately as required.
• Support general labor, excavation, and other site tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating excavation or heavy construction equipment.
• Proven ability to perform precision excavation near utilities and structures.
• Knowledge of trench safety, shoring, and excavation best practices.
• OSHA certification preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive trucks; ability to tow small trailers a plus.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; able to follow instructions and work efficiently in a crew environment.
• Ability to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on equipment.
• Physically capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions and lifting up to 50 lb.
• Reliable, safety‑minded, and drug‑free.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Dynamic work environment that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth.