Job Description

Job Title: Excavator Operator

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay Range: $18–$24 per hour

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Excavator Operator to join our utility construction team in New Orleans. In this role, you will operate heavy equipment to support the installation, repair, and maintenance of underground utilities such as water, sewer, gas, and electrical systems. The ideal candidate has experience working in construction or utility environments, understands excavation safety practices, and works well with field crews to complete projects efficiently and safely.

Must-Have Qualifications

• Experience operating an excavator in construction, utility, or similar field work.
• Knowledge of trenching and excavation safety practices.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and company guidelines.
• Ability to read basic site plans, grade stakes, and understand utility markings.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with physical labor when needed.
• Strong attention to safety, communication, and teamwork.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working around underground utilities such as water, sewer, gas, or electrical lines.
• Previous utility construction or pipeline project experience.
• CDL (Commercial Driver’s License).
• Experience with trench boxes, shoring, and trench safety systems.
• Familiarity with GPS or grade control systems.
• Experience performing daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform trenching, digging, grading, and backfilling for underground utility installation.
• Work closely with ground crews to safely excavate around existing utilities.
• Follow all safety procedures and regulations.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues.
• Maintain clean and organized job sites.
• Assist with general labor tasks when equipment operation is not required.
• Follow directions from supervisors and project managers to meet project timelines.

Work Schedule

Full-time position. Hours may vary based on project needs. Overtime and occasional weekend work may be required.

AI Screening Questions for Applicants

1. How many years of experience do you have operating an excavator in construction or utility work? Please describe the type of projects you’ve worked on.
2. Describe your experience working around underground utilities (water, sewer, gas, or electrical). What safety steps do you take before excavating?
3. What types or sizes of excavators have you operated, and what tasks did you typically perform with them (trenching, grading, backfilling, etc.)?
4. Explain how you perform a daily equipment inspection before operating an excavator. What items do you check?
5. Describe a situation where you had to work closely with a ground crew to safely excavate near existing utilities. How did you communicate and ensure safety?
6. This position requires outdoor work and occasionally assisting with physical labor when equipment is not in use. Are you comfortable with these job requirements?

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