Excavator Operator

Turner Mining Group • Front Royal, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are hiring an experienced Excavator Operator to join our site utility team. In this role, you’ll be a vital part of our underground utility crew, operating heavy production excavators (CAT 320 to CAT 336) to dig trenches, place pipe, and manage material on site. You will work directly under the guidance of our Team Lead to execute precise, safe, and efficient utility installations.

Requirements

• 2 years of heavy excavator operation required
• Valid Driver's License
• OSHA 10 Certification required
• Direct experience working around underground utilities is required
• Demonstrated competency operating CAT 320 to 336 class excavators (or equivalent mid-to-heavy machines)
• Willingness to operate support machinery (CAT 930 loader / CAT 963 track loader) when needed
• Strong work ethic, reliable attendance, and ability to collaborate effectively with field team members and the Team Lead.

Nice To Haves

• 3 to 5+ years of heavy excavator operation preferred
• pipelaying experience is highly preferred

Responsibilities

• Dig trenches to exact grade and depth for underground utility systems (water, sewer, storm, etc.) in dynamic soil conditions.
• Lift, move, and position heavy pipe, trench boxes, and utility structures directly into the trench with precision and care.
• Place and compact backfill material in controlled lifts to ensure proper structural integrity and meet compaction specifications.
• Occasionally step into auxiliary machines, such as CAT 930 rubber-tired loaders or CAT 963 track loaders, to assist with site prep, material management, and stock piling.
• Perform standard pre-shift/post-shift inspections and accurately complete daily equipment logs.
• Maintain a strict safety-first mindset around open excavations, existing utility lines, and ground personnel.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed