Underground Utility Service Technician / Excavator Operator

Underground Utility Service Technician / Excavator Operator
(Residential & Commercial Water & Sewer Specialist)

Job Description

Warnick Mechanical is seeking an experienced Underground Utility Service Technician to join our growing team. This position focuses on the installation, repair, and replacement of residential & commercial water service lines, sewer service lines, and related underground utility systems. We take care of our people — good equipment, steady work, and you’re home every night.

The ideal candidate has strong experience operating mini excavators and backhoe safely and efficiently in residential & commercial environments, understands trench safety and utility locating practices, and takes pride in delivering high-quality work and professional customer service.

This role requires someone who can work independently, communicate effectively with homeowners and team members, and maintain a clean and safe jobsite.

Primary Responsibilities

· Operate mini excavators and backhoe and related equipment safely and efficiently

· Install, repair, and replace residential and commercial water and sewer service lines

· Perform trenching, grading, backfilling, and site restoration

· Follow trench safety, shoring, benching, and OSHA excavation standards

· Locate and work around existing underground utilities

· Assist with pipe installation including PVC, SDR, ductile iron, copper, and HDPE where applicable

· Perform sewer repairs, water service replacements, spot repairs, and emergency excavations

· Maintain clean, organized, and safe jobsites

· Communicate professionally with homeowners

· Complete daily paperwork, job notes, and equipment inspections

· Assist with hydrostatic testing, leak checks, and system startup when required

· Transport equipment and materials when qualified

QualificationsRequired

· Minimum 3 - 5 years of experience operating mini excavators or backhoe

· Minimum 3-5 years of residential or commercial water and/or sewer line installation experience

· Knowledge of trench safety and excavation practices

· Ability to read utility locates and jobsite markings

· Experience working around existing underground utilities

· Valid driver’s license with clean driving record

· Ability to lift 75+ pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions

· Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail

Preferred

· CDL Class A or B

· OSHA excavation/trench safety certification

· Experience pulling permits or coordinating inspections

· Experience with skid loaders, dump trucks, and compact equipment

· Plumbing or utility service background

Ideal Candidate Traits

· Shows up consistently and on time

· Works safely without cutting corners

· Takes ownership of jobs from start to finish

· Treats customers and coworkers respectfully

· Keeps equipment clean and maintained

· Can lead a small crew or work independently

· Problem solver with strong field judgment

Compensation & Benefits

· Competitive hourly pay based on experience

· Overtime opportunities

· Company truck

· Paid vacation and holidays

· Health insurance contribution

· 401K

· Year-round work

Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person