Mainline Excavator Operator -

Water & Sewer Division Location:

Southern Texas (Near Corpus Christi, TX)

Company:

Gerke Excavating Inc. Gerke Excavating Inc. is seeking an experienced Mainline Excavator Operator to join our Water & Sewer Division in Southern Texas. This position is ideal for a highly skilled operator with a strong commitment to safety and extensive experience excavating for underground water and sewer utility installation. Position Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating mid-sized to large hydraulic excavators during the installation of underground water and sewer infrastructure. This position requires precision excavation in congested utility corridors while maintaining strict compliance with OSHA regulations and Gerke Excavating Inc.'s safety standards. The successful candidate understands that safety is the highest priority and consistently demonstrates sound judgment while working around existing underground utilities and in deep trench excavations. Required Qualifications Minimum of 3 years of experience operating excavators on underground water and sewer installation projects. Demonstrated experience excavating trenches ranging from 5 to 25 feet deep . Extensive experience working around multiple live underground utilities , including water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications, and other existing infrastructure. Experience safely excavating in congested utility environments while minimizing the risk of utility damage. Proficient in OSHA-compliant excavation safety practices, including: Benching Trench boxes Hydraulic and engineered shoring systems Soil classification Safe trench access and egress Experience operating mid-sized to large hydraulic excavators with accuracy and productivity. Ability to read and interpret utility plans, grade stakes, and excavation requirements. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with pipe crews, foremen, and project supervisors. Proven commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for all crew members. Required Certifications Candidates must possess the following current certifications: OSHA Trenching and Excavation Competent Person Certification OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification First Aid/CPR Certification Preferred Certification

HAZWOPER

Certification (40-Hour preferred) is desired but not required. Working Conditions This position is based in Southern Texas near Corpus Christi and requires employees to work in demanding outdoor conditions, including: Extreme heat and high humidity Physically demanding construction environments Deep trench excavations Variable weather conditions Fast-paced underground utility construction projects Candidates must be physically capable of safely performing all essential job functions in these conditions. Work Schedule 3 weeks on / 1 week off rotation Company-paid travel to and from the project Company-provided lodging during scheduled work rotations Daily per diem provided What We Offer Competitive wages based on qualifications and experience Company-paid travel and lodging Daily per diem Consistent rotational work schedule Modern, well-maintained equipment Career advancement opportunities A strong safety culture focused on protecting every employee About Gerke Excavating Inc. Gerke Excavating Inc. is a respected leader in heavy civil construction and underground utility installation. We are committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety, integrity, and craftsmanship. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we invest in providing the equipment, training, and support they need to succeed. If you are an experienced excavator operator who takes pride in safe, productive work and has the qualifications to lead by example in deep utility excavation, we encourage you to apply and become part of the Gerke Excavating Inc. team.

Pay:

$45.00 - $47.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance

Work Location:

In person