Equipment Operator
Benchmark Utility Services - Richmond, VA
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Company OverviewBenchmark is a premier design-build, site and underground utility construction firm, completing over 500 projects spanning over eight (8) years. With a heavy focus on mission critical facilities, our teams collaborate seamlessly to ensure our customers receive the highest level of service in the construction industry. At Benchmark, our success is fueled by our exceptional workforce. We prioritize training and professional development, encouraging our team to expand and enhance their unique skills, so they can fully realize their potential. If you are driven and passionate about excellence, we want to hear from you. Join us and be a part of our dynamic team, where your skills and ambitions will be nurtured and valued.Position SummaryThe Machine Operator ensures safe excavation practices, including shoring, barricading, and compliance with safety standards. Responsibilities include but are not limited to maintaining time and material records, conducting daily equipment inspections, and performing routine maintenance (lubricating, checking fluid levels). The role requires coordination with crew members, effective communication, and adherence to Miss Utility guidelines. Regular attendance and responsiveness to hand signals are essential, as well as maintaining a clean, safe work area.Essential Duties and Responsibilities Operates construction, excavation and hauling equipmentMaintains accurate time and material records for all excavation and equipment operationsDemonstrates knowledge of Miss Utility guidelines and applies them during excavation activitiesConducts site restoration after utility installationPerforms daily pre- and post-inspections of equipment, ensuring proper documentation follows company policiesCommunicates effectively with crew members to coordinate tasks and ensure efficient work processesWorks closely with other workers to determine excavation areas and ensures proper excavation techniques are usedTransports tools and other construction equipment to and from construction sitesMaintains work area cleanliness and adhere to safety and housekeeping standardsResponds promptly to visual cues and hand signals, ensuring smooth team coordinationPerforms daily general maintenance of machinery, including lubrication and fluid checksSafely maneuvers motorized heavy equipment to accurately remove and place materialsLoads and offloads rocks, debris, and other materials from heavy equipmentStrictly observes safety codes to ensure a safe working environmentPerforms equipment maintenance duties after use such as cleaning, greasing, and oiling machines and dispose of any collected scraps or wastePrepares work sites by clearing debris, leveling terrain, and ensuring proper access for machinery and assist coworkers in maintaining a clean and organized site at the end of each shiftOperates an excavator and other heavy equipment to dig trenches for and around existing utilitiesAssists in aligning pipes during pipeline construction and cover pipes with other earth materialsHandles excavated & backfill materialOperates machine a safe and efficient manner around the work areas with the proper use of spotterSafely heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, and trenchers to install and repair underground utilitiesIdentifies faults and troubleshoot equipment as requiredEnsures regular and predictable attendance during assigned work hoursPromptly reports any damage caused to property or to machinery immediately to supervisorPerforms other duties, as assigned Qualifications Proven experience of three (3) + or more years in operating heavy equipment, particularly in excavation, construction, or similar industriesKnowledge of principles, methods, and standards of the designated trade areaMust be willing to perform manual labor related tasks to support projectsAbility to inspect equipment and work areas thoroughly ensure compliance with safety and housekeeping standards and report issues promptlyAbility to perform basic equipment safety checks and maintenance, including lubricating, fluid checks, and cleaningStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to follow instructions and work under strict deadlinesExcellent hand-eye coordination and mechanical skillsStrong understanding of safety protocols and proceduresHigh school diploma or GEDValid driver’s license and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)Certifications in heavy equipment operation or safety (e.g., OSHA, CDL) preferredStrong communication and teamwork abilitiesPhysical stamina and ability to work in all weather conditionsAbility to lift or carry up to 50lbs Preferred QualificationsWhy Join Benchmark Utility ServicesBenchmark Utility Services offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits and a dynamic work environment that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth. If you possess the Qualifications and skills to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.Equal Opportunity Employer.
Created: 2026-03-04