Klingelhofer Management Group LLC
Excavator Operator Job Description
Department:
Field Operations - Civil / Underground Utilities
Reports To:
Foreman / Superintendent
Location:
Columbus & New Albany, OH (data-center and site development projects)
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt / Hourly
Position Summary
The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to perform deep utility trenching, grading, and underground conduit or duct-bank installation for data-center and large-scale site development projects. This position requires precision, safety awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively with field crews in a fast-paced, high-standard construction environment.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Operation
- Operate hydraulic excavators and related equipment for trenching, backfilling, grading, and material handling. - Excavate for installation of utilities such as storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water mains, and underground duct banks. - Use GPS or laser-grade control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica) to maintain grade tolerances. - Load and unload materials safely, maintaining awareness of swing radius and load capacity. - Perform daily equipment inspections, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow company safety policies and OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) standards. - Participate in daily Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and toolbox meetings. - Maintain awareness of underground and overhead utilities. - Properly set and remove trench boxes, slide-rail systems, or shoring equipment. - Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or equipment issues immediately.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with laborers, foremen, and pipe crews to achieve accurate trench depths, slopes, and alignments. - Communicate effectively with ground personnel and follow hand signals or radio directions. - Assist in layout verification and grade checks. - Support other site operations (grading, loading, compacting) as needed.
Qualifications
Required:
- Minimum 5 years (or 10,000 hours) operating heavy excavation equipment. - Experience with deep utility trenching (10+ ft depth) and trench safety systems. - Working knowledge of GPS or laser-guided systems. - Current OSHA 10-hour certification (30-hour preferred). - Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and trench layouts. - Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. - Willingness to comply with drug and background screening per company and site requirements.
Preferred:
- Competent Person certification for trenching and excavation. - Experience in data-center, mission-critical, or large industrial projects. - Familiarity with duct-bank installation and vault placement.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to operate equipment safely for extended periods (8-10 hours per day). - Frequent climbing on/off equipment and bending to inspect trench or grade conditions. - Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions. - Must be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Work Environment
- Outdoor construction sites with exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise. - May require overtime, weekend work, or night shifts. - Projects are primarily located in Columbus and New Albany, Ohio.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage. - Overtime and shift differential opportunities. - Health, dental, and vision insurance. - 401(k) with company match. - Paid holidays and time off. - Training and advancement opportunities.
Department:
Field Operations - Civil / Underground Utilities
Reports To:
Foreman / Superintendent
Location:
Columbus & New Albany, OH (data-center and site development projects)
FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt / Hourly
Position Summary
The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to perform deep utility trenching, grading, and underground conduit or duct-bank installation for data-center and large-scale site development projects. This position requires precision, safety awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively with field crews in a fast-paced, high-standard construction environment.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Operation
- Operate hydraulic excavators and related equipment for trenching, backfilling, grading, and material handling. - Excavate for installation of utilities such as storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water mains, and underground duct banks. - Use GPS or laser-grade control systems (Trimble, Topcon, Leica) to maintain grade tolerances. - Load and unload materials safely, maintaining awareness of swing radius and load capacity. - Perform daily equipment inspections, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow company safety policies and OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) standards. - Participate in daily Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and toolbox meetings. - Maintain awareness of underground and overhead utilities. - Properly set and remove trench boxes, slide-rail systems, or shoring equipment. - Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or equipment issues immediately.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with laborers, foremen, and pipe crews to achieve accurate trench depths, slopes, and alignments. - Communicate effectively with ground personnel and follow hand signals or radio directions. - Assist in layout verification and grade checks. - Support other site operations (grading, loading, compacting) as needed.
Qualifications
Required:
- Minimum 5 years (or 10,000 hours) operating heavy excavation equipment. - Experience with deep utility trenching (10+ ft depth) and trench safety systems. - Working knowledge of GPS or laser-guided systems. - Current OSHA 10-hour certification (30-hour preferred). - Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, plans, and trench layouts. - Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. - Willingness to comply with drug and background screening per company and site requirements.
Preferred:
- Competent Person certification for trenching and excavation. - Experience in data-center, mission-critical, or large industrial projects. - Familiarity with duct-bank installation and vault placement.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to operate equipment safely for extended periods (8-10 hours per day). - Frequent climbing on/off equipment and bending to inspect trench or grade conditions. - Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying weather conditions. - Must be able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Work Environment
- Outdoor construction sites with exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise. - May require overtime, weekend work, or night shifts. - Projects are primarily located in Columbus and New Albany, Ohio.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage. - Overtime and shift differential opportunities. - Health, dental, and vision insurance. - 401(k) with company match. - Paid holidays and time off. - Training and advancement opportunities.