Job Details

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to service the Tri-Cities region. The role involves digging trenches for pipe laying, foundations, or other underground utility installations. Additionally, you will assist in the installation of water and sewer lines, as well as perform repairs on existing underground systems. Safety procedures and protocols must be followed for excavating near underground utilities, utilizing locating devices, and employing proper trenching and shoring techniques. We are looking for candidates who specialize in Water & Sewer, Infrastructure, Storm Water Management, Underground Utilities, and Land Management & Conservation.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, dozers, backhoes, and front-end loaders.

• Dig trenches for pipe laying, foundations, or other underground utility installations.

• Assist in the installation and repair of water and sewer lines.

• Follow safety procedures and protocols for excavating near underground utilities.

• Utilize locating devices and proper trenching and shoring techniques.

• Specialize in areas such as Water & Sewer, Infrastructure, Storm Water Management, and Land Management & Conservation.

Essential Skills

• Experience with excavators and heavy equipment operation.

• Knowledge of trenching, shoring, and earthworks.

• Understanding of utility construction and underground utilities.

• Ability to operate track hoes and loaders.

• Familiarity with grading, stormwater, and sanitation systems.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with GPS and GPS localization is a plus.

Why Work Here?

We guarantee 40 hours of work each week regardless of weather conditions, with no travel or weekend work required. The owner invests in employees by providing continued education and opportunities for advancement. After one year of employment, you will receive a $500 holiday bonus. Our PTO policy starts at 5 days a year and increases annually. We have a profitable business with 150% of projects on backlog, ensuring stability. Our equipment is new and top-of-the-line, offering the best tools for the job.

Work Environment

You will work an average of 5, 8-hour days, with typical hours from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm. Employees usually work 50-55 hours a week, providing ample opportunity for overtime.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Johnson City, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Johnson City,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 11, 2026.

About Aerotek:

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.