Mini Excavator Operator

Young Management & Consulting (YMC) is seeking an experienced, safety-driven Mini Excavator Operator to support electric transmission construction projects throughout the State of Georgia. This position is responsible for safely operating mini excavators and related heavy equipment to support excavation, trenching, grading, and underground utility installation activities associated with high-voltage transmission line construction.

The Mini Excavator Operator will work alongside transmission line construction crews to perform precise excavation around existing underground utilities and newly constructed transmission structures while maintaining strict adherence to safety, environmental, and utility standards. This role requires extensive travel, outdoor work, and the ability to safely operate equipment in challenging terrain and weather conditions.

Safe and efficient operation of a mini excavator is the primary responsibility of this position and is considered an essential function of the job.

Key ResponsibilitiesEquipment Operation

• Safely operate mini excavators in support of transmission line, substation, and utility construction projects.
• Perform trenching, excavation, grading, backfilling, and site preparation activities in accordance with project plans.
• Excavate around energized and existing underground utilities using safe digging practices.
• Maintain proper trench dimensions, depths, slopes, and clearances as specified by engineering drawings and project requirements.
• Assist with excavation for grounding systems, conduit installation, foundations, drainage improvements, and related utility infrastructure.
• Perform precision excavation around transmission structures, poles, towers, and utility facilities while minimizing disturbance to surrounding areas.
• Utilize hydraulic attachments and specialized excavation equipment when required.
• Restore disturbed work areas following excavation activities.

Construction Support

• Support transmission line construction crews with excavation and material handling activities.
• Assist crews during installation of underground electrical infrastructure, grounding systems, conduit, and associated utility facilities.
• Load, unload, transport, and stage construction materials using equipment when appropriate.
• Assist with trench backfill, compaction, grading, and final restoration.
• Perform manual labor as required when equipment operation is not needed.
• Maintain productivity while ensuring safe work practices and quality workmanship.

Equipment Inspection & Maintenance

• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections of mini excavators and related equipment.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance including checking fluid levels, grease points, hydraulic systems, tracks, and attachments.
• Identify mechanical deficiencies and immediately report equipment issues.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and ensure safe operating condition at all times.
• Complete equipment inspection reports and maintenance documentation.
• Assist with loading, securing, and transporting equipment between project sites.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote a strong safety culture by following all company safety policies and utility work rules.
• Comply with OSHA regulations, excavation safety requirements, and utility construction standards.
• Participate in daily job briefings, tailboard meetings, and hazard assessments.
• Follow utility locating procedures and maintain required clearances around underground facilities.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Report unsafe conditions, incidents, and near misses immediately.
• Maintain compliance with environmental regulations and landowner requirements throughout construction activities.

Field Operations

• Read and interpret construction drawings, excavation plans, staking sheets, and utility locate markings.
• Coordinate daily work activities with supervisors, inspectors, and construction crews.
• Work efficiently in active utility construction environments with multiple contractors.
• Assist with traffic control, jobsite organization, and housekeeping.
• Support project schedules while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.
• Adapt to changing project priorities and varying field conditions.

Travel Requirements

• Travel extensively throughout Georgia and surrounding states based on project assignments.
• Stay overnight near project sites as required.
• Work overtime, weekends, and extended hours during peak construction schedules.
• Safely operate company vehicles, trailers, and equipment transport vehicles.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience operating mini excavators in utility, civil, pipeline, transmission, or heavy construction environments.
• Demonstrated ability to safely excavate around existing underground utilities.
• Experience operating mini excavators on uneven terrain and active construction sites.…