Operator

Position Title: Operator

Reports To: Foreman

Department: Field

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Compensation & Benefits: The anticipated pay range for this position is $20.00/ per hour- $28.00/ per hour Precision Underground also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other benefits.

Position Summary

Join a team that gets the job done right—safely, efficiently, and with pride. As an Underground Utility Operator, you’ll take the lead in operating specialized equipment to install, repair, and maintain underground utility lines including water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunications. You’ll bring hands-on skills, focus, and a strong work ethic to every job site while upholding high standards for safety and quality.

Employees must maintain compliance with all company policies, federal and state labor laws, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Affirmative Action Program requirements.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, trenchers, backhoes, directional drills, and other specialized equipment to complete trenching and boring tasks.

• Install and connect underground utility lines with precision, following all blueprints, specifications, and regulations.

• Read and accurately interpret utility maps, job site plans, and construction drawings.

• Mark underground utilities and ensure safe digging practices using standard locating equipment.

• Demonstrate physical readiness for hard, consistent work—lift heavy materials (50+lbs), and perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, climbing, stooping, and a full range of motion.

• Maintain all equipment in safe, working conditions through regular checks and preventative care.

• Create and maintain a safe work zone that meets OSHA and company standards.

• Communicate clearly with your crew, foreman and supervisors to keep operations running smoothly.

• Leave every job site better than you found it—clean, restored, and up to code.

• Follow company safety policies and procedures every time, no exceptions.

• Commit to seasonal work demands: 50–60 hours per week in the summer, 30–40 hours in the winter.

• Uphold confidentiality, sign and adhere to a company NDA.

• Operate construction equipment/vehicles safely in compliance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Part 391 and related rules).

• Perform construction-related duties such as underground utility installation, excavation, and fiber installation.

• Maintain accurate logs, records, and reports (DOT driver logs, daily equipment inspections, OSHA safety reports, etc.).

• Adhere to all site safety protocols and report hazards immediately.

• Attend and complete mandatory OSHA, safety, and compliance training.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Hold certifications in OSHA, trench safety, confined space entry, or utility locating.
• Bring experience with GPS, GIS, or field data systems.
• Understand and work with a variety of utility systems including water, electric, gas, and fiber optic.

• Knowledge of construction safety standards and OSHA requirements.

• Familiarity with DOT and CDL driver qualification requirements.

• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow company compliance policies.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Bring 1–3 years of experience in underground utility installation or a similar trade.

• Valid driver’s license; CDL required for applicable positions.

• Be prepared to obtain a Class A with Air Brakes endorsement within 90 days of hire—we’ll help you get there. Earn an automatic raise once acquired.
• Understand OSHA safety requirements and excavation regulations.
• Operate excavation and boring equipment with confidence and precision.
• Thrive in working outdoors in all weather conditions and handling physically demanding tasks.
• Show strong attention to detail, clear problem-solving skills, and the drive to get the job done.
• Be flexible and willing to travel as needed for job assignments.

• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and DOT physical (if applicable).

• Prior construction or utility industry experience preferred.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed outdoors in variable weather conditions.

• Frequent lifting, bending, twisting, kneeling, standing, walking, and operating heavy equipment.

• Must be able to use personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by OSHA.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Precision Underground Utilities LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive workplace free from discrimination or harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital status, familial status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship or immigration status, status with respect to public assistance, veteran status, protected concerted activity, or any other status or activity protected under federal, state, or local law.

We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to support their full participation in the application process, the workplace, and advancement opportunities. If you require an accommodation to apply or interview, please contact HR at hrconsulting@creativeplanning.com.

Precision Underground Utilities LLC strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment, or retaliation of any kind. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

As a federal contractor, Precision Underground Utilities LLC maintains an Affirmative Action Program to promote equal employment opportunity for minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Employees and applicants have the right to review the Affirmative Action Plan during normal business hours.

Positions requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, including but not limited to 49 CFR Part 391 (Driver Qualifications). Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks, driving record reviews, DOT physical examinations, and ongoing compliance with DOT standards.

Employees are required to follow all OSHA safety standards and company safety protocols. This includes the consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), participation in required training, and immediate reporting of workplace hazards or injuries.

Employment with Precision Underground Utilities LLC is at-will unless otherwise specified in a written agreement signed by both the employee and Precision Underground Utilities LLC. This means that either the employee or Precision Underground Utilities LLC may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in compliance with applicable law.

Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska: Pay ranges may be provided as part of best practices but are not legally required in all postings. Minnesota (effective Jan 1, 2025): Precision Underground discloses the pay range and general benefits for all job postings. Employees have the right to openly discuss compensation and benefits, and Precision Underground Utilities LLC will not discharge or discriminate against employees or applicants for discussing or disclosing compensation.