Equipment Operator Job in Washington, DC | Excavator Operator
Overview
You will operate excavators and heavy equipment for utility construction and sitework projects, ensuring precision and safety across 500+ mission-critical builds. Reporting to the crew lead, you'll execute trenching, excavation, and backfill while collaborating with spotters and laborers. This role stands out for its focus on OSHA compliance and hands-on training in a premier design-build firm.
What You'll Do10
- 1Operate excavators, mini-excavators, and loaders for trenching, excavation, and backfill tasks.
- 2Excavate precisely around live utilities, following Miss Utility guidelines and safety protocols.
- 3Conduct daily equipment inspections, perform routine maintenance like fueling and fluid checks, and report issues immediately.
- 4Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards to protect crew and public.
- 5Support crew with trench prep, pipe installation, and backfill when not operating equipment.
- 6Coordinate with spotters using hand signals and radios for safe equipment movement.
- 7Load, unload, and position materials and trench boxes using proper rigging techniques.
- 8Maintain a clean work area and adhere to OSHA safety standards at all times.
- 9Document equipment usage, inspections, and fuel logs accurately.
- 10Assist with general labor and site tasks as assigned to keep projects on schedule.
Requirements9
- 13+ years operating excavation or heavy construction equipment.
- 2Proven ability to perform precision excavation near utilities and structures.
- 3Knowledge of trench safety, shoring, and excavation best practices.
- 4OSHA certification preferred.
- 5Valid driver's license and willingness to drive trucks preferred; ability to tow trailers a plus.
- 6Strong communication and teamwork skills; able to follow instructions and work efficiently in a crew environment.
- 7Ability to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on equipment.
- 8Physically capable of working outdoors in varying weather and lifting up to 50 lbs.
- 9Reliable, safety-minded, and drug-free.
Salary Insight
Salary not disclosed in listing
Location
Required Skills
Similar open positions
Explore active roles that match your skills and interests.
Aerotek
VerifiedHeavy Equipment Operator, Excavation & Backfilling
Operate excavators, front-end loaders, and rollers on a pipe crew performing backfilling, excavation, and site preparation for underground utility projects. Work outdoors on active construction sites in the Gambrills, MD area, coordinating with a crew to move materials and maintain a clean work zone. Handle controlled lifts, compaction, and material transport with precision and safety. This contract role offers weekly pay, benefits, and a clear path to performance-based raises within 90 days.
Quality Talent Group
VerifiedUtility Operator Washington DC
Our client builds next generation infrastructure across North America supporting construction at 1,000+ sites. Join our team to grow your career in a fast-paced production environment. This is a comprehensive opportunity with benefits including healthcare retirement plans and EAP support. We offer inclusive teamwork and PPE. Apply now to start your journey.
Clark Construction Group, LLC
VerifiedConstruction Laborer - Washington DC
Join Clark Construction Group as a dedicated Construction Laborer to support large-scale projects across diverse sectors. You will assist skilled tradespeople while maintaining a safe and organized worksite. This role demands physical stamina and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Virginia Department of Transportation
VerifiedOperator Maintenance, VDOT Roadway Equipment
You will own equipment operations, preventive maintenance, and emergency response for highway maintenance in the Washington, District of Columbia area. Operating light, medium, and heavy-duty equipment, you will clear snow, repair roads, and set up traffic control. Reporting to the crew supervisor, you will work with a team of 5-10 operators and laborers. This role demands CDL certification within 11 months and a commitment to MUTCD safety standards.
Cash Construction Company, Inc.
VerifiedExcavator Operator, Heavy Equipment & Utility Construction
Operate crawler or rubber-tired excavators for mass excavation, pipe laying, and structural work on municipal and private projects across Austin, Texas. Join Cash Construction, a division of MasTec, known for water, wastewater, and drainage infrastructure. You'll handle safety checks, equipment maintenance, and precise digging in a team that values reliability and craftsmanship. This role offers steady work on TxDOT and municipal contracts with a company committed to safety.
SKILLIT
VerifiedHeavy Equipment Operator, Construction & Excavation
You will operate heavy equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and cranes on construction and earthmoving projects across multiple U.S. cities. You will join a safety-first team that values your expertise and offers flexible interview times to get you started. This role combines hands-on machinery operation with collaboration on site plans and safety protocols. You will drive project progress from day one, ensuring efficient and safe material handling.