Trackhoe Operator (Utility)

Come Join Our Team!

At RAWSO Constructors, our people are the foundation of everything we build. We invest in our employees by providing opportunities for growth, promoting from within, and fostering a culture built on teamwork, accountability, and safety. If you're looking for a company that values hard work, quality craftsmanship, and developing long-term careers, we'd love to have you on our team.

Job Summary

RAWSO Constructors is seeking a skilled and safety driven Trackhoe Operator (Utility) to join our underground utilities team. This position is responsible for operating hydraulic excavators (trackhoes) to safely excavate, trench, backfill, and install underground utility systems while protecting existing infrastructure. The ideal candidate has experience digging around live utilities and understands the precision, communication, and situational awareness required to safely perform utility excavation.

This role requires someone who takes pride in producing quality work, works well with ground crews, and consistently demonstrates commitment to safety, productivity, and teamwork.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate hydraulic excavators (trackhoes) to excavate for underground utility installation including water, sewer, storm drain, and related infrastructure.
• Safely expose existing underground utilities through careful excavation techniques while minimizing the risk of damage.
• Read and interpret utility locate markings, construction plans, grade stakes, and project specifications.
• Excavate trenches to proper depth, width, and grade while maintaining trench safety requirements.
• Assist with installing utility pipe, structures, manholes, catch basins, and related underground systems.
• Perform precision excavation in congested utility corridors and around existing utilities including electric, gas, communications, fiber, and water lines.
• Coordinate closely with foremen, pipe crews, laborers, and spotters to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns promptly.
• Perform routine maintenance including fueling, greasing, cleaning, and monitoring fluid levels.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas while supporting overall jobsite housekeeping.
• Follow OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and excavation best practices at all times.
• Work safely around other heavy equipment, vehicles, and personnel in active construction environments.
• Assist with additional construction duties as needed to support the success of the crew.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating hydraulic excavators in underground utility construction is required.
• Experience excavating around existing underground utilities is strongly preferred.
• Ability to safely read and interpret utility locate markings and construction drawings.
• Knowledge of trenching, excavation, and utility installation practices.
• Strong understanding of excavation safety requirements and OSHA regulations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with crew members using hand signals and verbal communication.
• Demonstrated ability to perform precise excavation with minimal disturbance to surrounding utilities.
• Dependable attendance and strong work ethic.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently sit for extended periods while operating heavy equipment.
• Ability to climb on and off heavy equipment multiple times throughout the day.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to bend, kneel, squat, climb, and walk across active construction sites.
• Must have sufficient vision, depth perception, and hearing to safely operate equipment and maintain awareness of surrounding personnel and hazards.

Preferred Experience

• Underground utility construction
• Water, sewer, and storm drainage installation
• Utility locating awareness
• Excavation around live utilities
• GPS and grade control systems (preferred but not required)
• Heavy civil construction
• Pipe crew support operations

Here's What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Paid Time Off and 401(k) with match.
• Year-round employment opportunities and paid holidays.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance available on the first day of employment.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Short-term disability, accident coverage, and life insurance options.
• Company-provided safety training and professional development opportunities.

RAWSO Constructors is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and a Tennessee Drug-Free Workplace.

As part of the pre-employment process, all employees are required to successfully complete a background check and pre-employment drug screening.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, or any other legally protected status. RAWSO Constructors is committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce.