Traveling Excavation Operator

Verita Telecommunications is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Traveling Excavation Operator to support underground telecommunications construction projects. The Traveling Excavation Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to excavate, trench, grade, backfill, and prepare work areas for the installation of fiber optic, utility, and telecommunications infrastructure.

This position plays a critical role in supporting underground construction operations and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to company and customer specifications. The ideal candidate will have experience operating excavators and other heavy equipment in utility or telecommunications environments and possess a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality workmanship.

Team Verita Benefits

Financial Wellbeing

• Competitive pay with ongoing performance reviews and annual merit increases
• 401(k) with company match

Health & Wellness

• Choice of PPO, HMO, and HSA medical plans
• Dental and Vision coverage

Family & Lifestyle

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave

Planning for the Unexpected

• Company-paid Short-Term Disability
• Company-paid Long-Term Disability
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Company-paid Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators, mini excavators, skid steers, backhoes, loaders, and other heavy equipment used in telecommunications construction.
• Perform trenching, excavation, grading, backfilling, and site preparation activities.
• Excavate around existing utilities while minimizing risk to underground infrastructure.
• Read and interpret utility locates, construction plans, and project specifications.
• Assist with the installation of conduit, handholes, vaults, pull boxes, and underground telecommunications facilities.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of equipment and complete daily equipment reports.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and report mechanical issues promptly.
• Work closely with drill crews, locators, foremen, and construction supervisors to support project completion.
• Ensure proper trench depth, grade, and restoration according to project requirements.
• Assist with loading and unloading materials, tools, and equipment as needed.
• Support traffic control and job site safety initiatives.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all OSHA regulations, company safety standards, and customer requirements.
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and job hazard analyses (JHAs).
• Perform emergency restoration work as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience operating excavators or heavy equipment in construction, utility, or telecommunications environments.
• Experience working around underground utilities and utility locate markings.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment in congested or confined work areas.
• Knowledge of excavation safety practices and trenching procedures.
• Ability to read construction drawings and utility locates.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Preferred

• Experience in telecommunications, fiber optic, or underground utility construction.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL Class A or B).
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
• Competent Person Certification for Excavation and Trenching.
• Experience operating vacuum excavation equipment.
• Experience operating directional drilling support equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to enter and exit equipment repeatedly throughout the day.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb as needed.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
• Ability to work on uneven terrain and active construction sites.
• Ability to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.