Job Description
About MGE MGE Underground is a rapidly growing utility infrastructure contractor serving utility companies from our Paso Robles headquarters and regional hubs throughout California. Our mission is to support our clients’ expanding utility and infrastructure requirements by positioning MGE as the leading provider of innovative construction solutions at the best value.
Our Core Values
Safety | Continuous Development | Respect | Integrity | Performance | Trust | Fun
How You Can Make an Impact The
Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery, including backhoes, front-end loaders, skip loaders, and excavators. This role primarily supports the installation of dry utilities such as power systems, conduit, substructures, and concrete.
How You Will Contribute - Follow daily procedures and protocols as set forth in job orientations and trainings.
- Operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights used for excavation and installation of underground utilities, such as backhoes, front-end loaders, and hydraulic excavators.
- For excavators – efficiently set and load trucks to optimize production and be capable of utilizing rock breaker and/or processor attachments.
- Operate heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner at all times.
- Report any accidents, incidents, or injuries immediately.
- Work with and assist the line crew in trenches, hoisting materials, tools, equipment, and performing related work with a backhoe or front-end loader.
- Keep equipment clean and free of dirt and excess grease.
- Change buckets and attachments on equipment as needed.
- Properly identify all utilities prior to performing any excavation procedures.
- Consult with the Foreman prior to digging to verify any unidentified or unclear utility markings.
- Attend weekly toolbox talks and all other required company safety meetings.
- Grease, oil, fuel, and perform daily maintenance on equipment.
- Hand dig around existing utilities when necessary.
- Ensure all underground utilities are fully exposed by hand digging when required.
- Maintain thorough knowledge of California Excavation Laws, including California Government Code 4216 and Cal/OSHA Title 8 Construction Safety Orders, Chapter 4, Subchapter 4, Article 6, Section 1541.
- Operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws as needed.
- Carry, load, and/or haul equipment and materials to be used on the job site.
- Follow all company safety policies and practices while observing required safety codes at all times.
- Report any equipment repairs or breakdowns to the Foreman or Supervisor.
- Perform light repairs and maintenance of tools and equipment, including cleaning and washing.
- Maneuver motorized heavy equipment to ensure accurate removal and placement of materials.
- Load and offload rocks, debris, and other materials from heavy equipment.
- Communicate with crews as needed to clarify project specifications and tasks.
- Assist coworkers to ensure the site is clean and organized at the end of each shift.
- Provide suggestions to improve workflow and increase efficiency.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What You Bring to the Table - Ability to operate heavy equipment such as a backhoe, excavator, trencher and rock wheel.
- Excavation experience in production and safety-oriented projects.
- Detail-oriented – quality and precision-focused.
- Team-oriented – cooperative and collaborative.
- Competitive and growth oriented.
- Hardworking with a strong work ethic.
- Effective communication skills.
- Strong organization, people, and time management skills.
- Must be able to follow oral and written plans and directions.
Your Prior Experience - Required: High School Diploma or GED.
- Required: Minimum 5 years of heavy equipment operating experience.
- Required: Valid Class C Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
- Desired: Class A Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
- Preferred: Experience in the construction industry.
Our Competitive Package Pay: $54.00 to $65.00 per hour
This pay range is our competitive compensation at the time of this job posting. Your pay will be determined based on experience, education, skills, and applicable knowledge.
Above and Beyond Benefits - Full employee benefits are available for this role.
Additional Information Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site
Affirmative Action/EEO MGE Underground is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected characteristics.
Pre-Employment and Physical Requirements Successful candidates must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check prior to starting work.
This position requires the frequent use of hands and fingers to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, and materials. Applicants must be able to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods, including while operating vibrating, jerking, or stationary machinery. The role involves regular reaching with hands and arms, as well as bending, twisting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling as needed.
Repetitive motion is required, including operating hand and foot controls on heavy equipment. The ability to lift, push, pull, or carry loads up to 50 pounds individually is essential.
Candidates must have sufficient physical strength, stamina, balance, and hand-eye coordination to safely perform tasks on various job sites. Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work is often performed in loud or noisy environments and in all weather conditions. The employee must be able to drive a motor vehicle and travel to various locations. The ability to access and navigate active construction sites is required.
*Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Other Duties Your duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, based on the company’s needs.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, For contractors, Immediate start, Shift work,