Operator Excavator

Location: Afton, TX (On‑site) | Employment Type: Full‑Time | Reports to: Operator Foreman | FLSA Classification: Non‑Exempt

About Loenbro

Loenbro is a trusted, long‑term construction lifecycle partner to thousands of customers across the United States. Our market spans all industries and our service offerings include Critical Electrical, Mechanical & Structural, Soft Crafts, Inspection, Underground Maintenance and Installation, and Fabrication. We simplify the complex and build long‑standing relationships with our partners. With a national presence and a local approach, every customer benefits from our capabilities and our care. At Loenbro we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers grounded in integrity, teamwork, excellence, and purpose.

About the Role

The UMI Operator Excavator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of excavators and related heavy equipment in support of underground utility maintenance, inspection, repair, rehabilitation, and construction activities. This position performs excavation, trenching, utility exposure, backfilling, and restoration work while ensuring compliance with project specifications, safety requirements, and company standards. The Operator Excavator works closely with foremen, utility crews, inspectors, and project‑management personnel to support successful project execution.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators of various sizes to perform digging, trenching, grading, utility exposure, and material‑handling activities.
• Safely excavate around existing underground utilities, including water, sewer, storm drain, gas, electrical, and telecommunications systems.
• Perform precision excavation work in congested utility corridors and confined work areas.
• Support underground maintenance and inspection operations by exposing utilities for inspections, repairs, rehabilitation, and replacement.
• Load trucks, move materials, and assist with project site preparation and restoration activities.
• Read and interpret utility locates, construction drawings, plans, grade stakes, and work orders.
• Ensure proper trench depth, slope, and excavation dimensions are maintained according to project requirements and safety regulations.
• Work closely with spotters, laborers, and utility technicians to maintain safe excavation operations.
• Conduct pre‑operation inspections and daily equipment checks; identify and report equipment deficiencies, mechanical issues, and maintenance requirements.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, fueling, lubrication, and cleaning.
• Maintain awareness of overhead and underground hazards while operating equipment.
• Follow all OSHA, company, and client safety policies and procedures.
• Complete daily equipment logs, inspection reports, production reports, and required documentation.
• Assist with emergency utility repair and restoration efforts as required.
• Support operation of additional equipment when needed to meet project demands.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 3 years of experience operating excavators in utility, civil construction, or underground infrastructure environments.
• Experience excavating around existing underground utilities.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to read utility maps, blueprints, and construction drawings.
• Knowledge of excavation safety standards and trenching requirements.
• Ability to work safely and productively in active construction environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• Competent Person for Excavation and Trenching certification.
• Utility locating experience.
• Experience with GPS machine‑control systems.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Experience operating additional heavy equipment, including loaders, dozers, graders, skid steers, and backhoes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong proficiency operating hydraulic excavators of various sizes.
• Knowledge of underground utility systems and safe excavation practices.
• Ability to interpret utility locates, grade stakes, engineering drawings, and project specifications.
• Understanding of trenching and shoring requirements.
• Ability to work safely around energized utilities and occupied infrastructure.
• Strong situational awareness and hazard‑recognition skills.
• Effective communication with crew members and supervisors.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment inspections and minor troubleshooting.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Frequent climbing on and off heavy equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work around trenches, excavations, uneven terrain, and moving equipment.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and emergency‑response assignments when required.

Work Environment

• Underground utility maintenance and inspection projects.
• Municipal infrastructure projects.
• Industrial construction sites.
• Utility rehabilitation and repair projects.
• Roadway, right‑of‑way, and easement work locations.
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, traffic, excavation hazards, and changing weather conditions.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Life and disability insurance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Benefits eligibility may vary based on employment classification and hours worked.