AR Utilities & Excavation

Heavy Equipment Operator

Marion, Texas•Full-time
About the Job
Company: AR Utilities & Excavation LLC
Contact: 210-310-7890
Location: San Antonio, TX & Surrounding Areas
Position: Heavy Equipment Operator – Underground Utility Construction
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Competitive Pay Based on Experience & Equipment Proficiency

Job Description:
AR Utilities & Excavation LLC is an established site utility construction company currently accepting applications for experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our growing construction team.
We specialize in underground utility construction, including domestic water, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and fire protection systems for commercial and civil construction projects.
We are seeking dependable, skilled, and safety-conscious operators with experience operating heavy construction equipment in underground utility installation and site development.
Applicants must have previous heavy equipment operating experience. Compensation will be based on experience, skill level, and the types of equipment the applicant is qualified to operate.
The ideal candidate will understand underground utility construction, be capable of performing accurate excavation work, and work efficiently alongside utility crews to maintain project schedules and production goals.

Equipment Experience:
Applicants should have experience operating one or more of the following:
  • Backhoes
  • Mini Excavators
  • Large Excavators
  • Trenchers
  • Front-End Loaders
  • Skid Steers
  • Compact Track Loaders
  • Other Heavy Construction Equipment
Experience operating multiple types of equipment is highly preferred and will be considered when determining compensation.

Job Responsibilities:
Heavy Equipment Operation:
  • Safely and efficiently operate assigned heavy construction equipment.
  • Perform trench excavation for underground water, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and fire line installations.
  • Excavate trenches to specified depths, widths, grades, and alignments.
  • Perform precision excavation around existing underground utilities and structures.
  • Assist with the installation of underground piping, manholes, valves, fire hydrants, inlets, and other utility structures.
  • Load and unload materials, move spoil piles, and maintain organized jobsites.
  • Perform trench backfilling, grading, and material placement.
  • Operate equipment efficiently to meet daily production expectations.
  • Work closely with foremen, pipe layers, and laborers to coordinate excavation and installation activities.
Underground Utility Construction Knowledge:
  • Understand basic underground utility construction procedures.
  • Read and interpret utility markings, construction stakes, and basic construction plans.
  • Understand trench depths, pipe grades, elevations, and bedding requirements.
  • Use laser levels, grade rods, and other construction layout equipment when necessary.
  • Identify potential utility conflicts and notify the foreman before proceeding.
  • Understand proper excavation procedures around existing water, sewer, gas, electrical, and communication utilities.
  • Maintain proper trench alignment and excavation dimensions.
  • Assist utility crews with pipe placement, bedding, backfilling, and compaction activities.
Equipment Maintenance & Accountability:
  • Perform daily equipment inspections before beginning work.
  • Check fluid levels, hydraulic systems, tracks, tires, attachments, and other critical components.
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance, including greasing and cleaning equipment.
  • Immediately report mechanical problems, equipment damage, or unsafe operating conditions.
  • Maintain assigned equipment in good working condition.
  • Operate equipment responsibly to minimize unnecessary wear, damage, and repair costs.
  • Maintain accountability for company equipment, attachments, and tools.
Production & Jobsite Efficiency:
  • Work efficiently to maintain daily construction production goals.
  • Coordinate equipment operations with pipe crews to minimize downtime.
  • Anticipate the needs of crew members during excavation and pipe installation.
  • Minimize unnecessary equipment movement, excessive idling, and material handling.
  • Understand that efficient equipment operation directly impacts project schedules and profitability.
  • Communicate potential delays, equipment problems, and unforeseen field conditions to the foreman.
  • Take responsibility for the quality and accuracy of assigned work.
Jobsite Safety:
  • Follow company safety policies and applicable OSHA construction regulations.
  • Understand excavation and trench safety requirements.
  • Maintain awareness of trench boxes, shoring, sloping, and other excavation protective systems.
  • Never allow employees to enter unsafe excavations.
  • Maintain safe operating distances from personnel, structures, and existing utilities.
  • Follow established utility locating and excavation procedures.
  • Use appropriate precautions when working near overhead power lines and underground utilities.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
  • Immediately report unsafe conditions, equipment damage, and jobsite incidents.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Previous heavy equipment operating experience is required.
  • Underground utility construction experience is strongly preferred.
  • Ability to safely and efficiently operate one or more types of heavy construction equipment.
  • Experience excavating trenches and working around underground utilities.
  • Ability to excavate accurately to specified depths and elevations.
  • Understanding of basic construction grades, elevations, and utility layouts.
  • Knowledge of excavation safety and proper equipment operating procedures.
  • Ability to work independently and 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 work overtime and occasional weekends when project schedules require.
  • Reliable transportation to designated job sites.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment.
  • Experience with commercial site utility construction.
  • Proficiency operating excavators for deep utility trench excavation.
  • Experience excavating around existing underground utilities.
  • Familiarity with laser levels, grade rods, and GPS equipment.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • Experience with trench safety and excavation protective systems.
  • Ability to perform basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

Compensation & Benefits:
AR Utilities & Excavation LLC offers competitive compensation and benefits to qualified employees.
Compensation:
  • Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications.
  • Higher compensation consideration for operators proficient in multiple types of equipment.
  • Full-time employment.
  • Opportunities for advancement and increased responsibility.
Employee 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.

What We Expect From Our Operators:
At AR Utilities & Excavation LLC, we value equipment operators who take pride in their work and understand their role in maintaining safe, productive, and profitable construction operations.
We expect our operators to demonstrate three essential qualities:
1. Equipment Proficiency & Construction Accuracy:
Operators must be capable of safely operating assigned equipment while performing accurate excavation work. The ability to maintain proper trench depths, grades, and alignments is essential. Operators should understand underground utility construction and recognize potential conflicts before they result in costly mistakes.
2. Productivity & Efficiency:
Operators must understand that equipment utilization, production rates, and minimizing downtime directly affect project costs and schedules. We expect operators to work efficiently, anticipate the needs of their crews, and contribute to maintaining consistent daily production.
3. Equipment Care & Personal Accountability:
Operators are responsible for the proper operation and daily care of assigned equipment. Preventative maintenance, reporting mechanical issues, and avoiding unnecessary equipment damage are essential responsibilities.
We are seeking experienced operators who take ownership of their work, demonstrate initiative, and understand that their performance directly contributes to the success of the entire construction crew.

Apply Today:
AR Utilities & Excavation LLC is currently accepting applications for experienced Heavy Equipment Operators.
Applicants must have previous equipment operating experience. Pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and the types of equipment the applicant can operate.

To Apply:
Phone: 210-310-7890
Call for an application or directions to our office.
Email Resume: alopez@ar-ut.com
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Experienced operators are encouraged to apply today!
AR Utilities & Excavation LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.