Heavy Equipment Operator

W.W. Clyde•Minidoka, ID

26d•Onsite

About The Position

WW Clyde is hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for an underground pipeline project in Minidoka County, Idaho. The project involves nine miles of open-cut trench installation of HDPE pipe ranging from 14 to 54 inches in diameter, as well as drainage sumps, turnouts, and tie-ins. The position is project-based, starts immediately, and is expected to continue through spring 2027. It is non-union and requires employees to work onsite every working day. No per diem is provided, so candidates should live within commuting distance of the job site. Pay is $28–$35 per hour, depending on experience. Operators will primarily use excavators to dig trenches to line and grade, work around shoring, set pipe, and backfill. Dozer, loader, and compaction work will also be assigned according to the crew’s daily needs. The position reports to the Foreman and works under the direction of the Superintendent. The work involves outdoor conditions, including Idaho winters, and may require extended hours and weather-dependent schedules. Employment offers and start dates are contingent on a successful background check and pre-employment drug screen, including THC screening.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in underground, pipeline, or heavy civil construction.
Proven excavator experience on trench and pipeline work, including digging to grade and working around crews in the ditch.
Ability to read grade stakes and cut sheets and work to line and grade.
Understanding of trench safety, shoring systems, and spoil-pile management.
Reliable attendance and willingness to work the hours the job requires.
Reliable transportation to and from the job site.
Ability to work outdoors in Idaho winter conditions for the duration of the project.
Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record.
Ability to climb on and off equipment and maintain balance; sit and operate controls for extended periods; bend, kneel, reach, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to work outdoors in extreme cold, heat, wind, snow, dirt, and dust, with exposure to equipment noise, vibration, fuels, and lubricants.

Nice To Haves

Experience installing large-diameter HDPE or similar pipe.
Experience with GPS machine control, such as Trimble, Topcon, or similar.
Ability to operate multiple machine types, including a dozer, loader, and roller.
OSHA 10-hour certification.
Competent Person training for excavation and trenching.

Responsibilities

Safely and productively operate excavators, dozers, loaders, backhoes, and compaction equipment.
Excavate trenches to the required line, grade, and depth using grade stakes, a laser, or GPS machine control.
Work around shoring and trench boxes, including setting and pulling boxes as directed.
Set and lower pipe into the trench while coordinating with crew members in the ditch and following the Foreman’s signals.
Place bedding material, backfill, and compact to specification.
Excavate for drainage sumps, turnouts, and tie-in locations.
Maintain safe spoil-pile setback and stay clear of utilities, locates, and personnel.
Perform daily pre-operation inspections and promptly report mechanical issues to the mechanic or Foreman.
Grease, service, and clean equipment as assigned.
Follow WW Clyde safety policies, OSHA excavation requirements, and site-specific rules, and participate in daily safety huddles.
Work extended hours and weather-dependent schedules as the project requires.