Small Equipment Operator

AR Utilities & Excavation • Marion, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

AR Utilities & Excavation LLC is hiring experienced Small Equipment Operators for underground utility construction crews in San Antonio, Texas, and surrounding areas. The company installs domestic water, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and fire protection systems for commercial and civil construction projects. This is a hands-on role involving operation of small construction equipment as well as physical construction labor and assistance to pipe layers, laborers, and other crew members when equipment operation is not required.

Operators safely use equipment such as skid steers, compact track loaders, mini excavators, trenchers, compactors, small backhoes, and related machinery. Work includes excavation and trenching, utility installation support, grading, backfilling, compaction, material handling, equipment inspections and routine maintenance, and jobsite safety. Employees coordinate with foremen and utility crews to meet production schedules and maintain equipment accountability.

The position is full-time, with competitive hourly pay based on experience, qualifications, and equipment proficiency. The company offers opportunities for advancement into heavy equipment operator and crew leadership positions. Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance and a 401(k) plan are available. English- and Spanish-speaking applicants are welcome; Spanish-speaking staff can assist with the application and hiring process.

Requirements

• Previous experience operating small construction equipment is required.
• Experience operating skid steers, mini excavators, trenchers, or compactors.
• Basic understanding of excavation, trenching, grading, and backfilling operations.
• Ability to safely operate equipment around personnel and existing utilities.
• Willingness and ability to perform physical construction labor when needed.
• Ability to follow directions from foremen and superintendents.
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and handle construction materials and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Reliable transportation to designated job sites.
• Availability to work overtime and occasional weekends when project schedules require.

Nice To Haves

• Underground utility construction experience.
• Experience operating multiple types of small construction equipment.
• Experience with commercial site utility construction.
• Familiarity with underground water, sewer, storm drainage, and fire line installations.
• Experience with trench excavation and compaction.
• Knowledge of basic construction grades and elevations.
• Experience using construction lasers and grade rods.
• OSHA 10 certification.
• Experience performing basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate assigned small construction equipment.
• Perform minor excavation and trenching for underground utility installations, including water, sewer, storm drainage, and fire line work.
• Use skid steers and compact track loaders to move materials, load trucks, and maintain jobsites.
• Use mini excavators for trench excavation, utility exposure, and backfilling.
• Perform grading, leveling, and site preparation.
• Operate trench compactors, rollers, and other compaction equipment; assist with pipe bedding and trench backfilling.
• Load, unload, and transport materials around active construction sites.
• Coordinate with foremen and utility crews to maintain daily production schedules.
• Assist with installing underground utilities, pipe, fittings, valves, manholes, and other utility structures.
• Follow construction stakes, utility markings, foreman directions, and required excavation depths and grades.
• Recognize existing underground utilities and use caution and approved methods when exposing them.
• Perform general construction labor when equipment operation is not required.
• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and check fluid levels, hydraulic systems, tracks, tires, and attachments.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, including greasing and cleaning; report mechanical problems, damage, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Maintain assigned equipment, tools, and attachments in clean, professional condition and prevent unnecessary damage and wear.
• Work efficiently, minimize unnecessary equipment downtime and idling, and assist with material handling and jobsite preparation.
• Follow company safety policies, applicable OSHA construction regulations, excavation procedures, and personal protective equipment requirements.
• Maintain awareness of workers, structures, equipment, and utilities; do not enter or allow others to enter unsafe excavations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment and report unsafe conditions and accidents immediately.

Benefits

• Medical insurance available for employees and eligible family members.
• Dental insurance available for employees and eligible family members.
• Vision insurance available for employees and eligible family members.
• Life insurance benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Opportunities for advancement into heavy equipment operator and crew leadership positions.
• Competitive hourly pay based on experience and qualifications.

What This Job Offers

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