Excavation Equipment Operator (Underground)
Location: Prineville, OR (Central Oregon)
Pay Range: $32.00 – $45.00 per hour (DOE)
Employment Type: Seasonal Full-Time | Non-Exempt
About Us
At Creations Northwest, our mission is to craft legacy homes, inviting dignity and opportunity for everyone. Guided by our vision to develop, build, and manage communities where everyone can flourish, we uphold values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect, Creativity, and Efficiency in everything we do.
We are seeking a skilled Excavation Equipment Operator to join our construction team and perform underground excavation for residential and commercial projects.
Role Overview
The Excavation Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently, interpreting plans, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This position requires travel between job sites in Central Oregon; mileage reimbursement provided.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Operation
- Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, backhoes, bulldozers, rollers, and skid steers.
- Use hydraulic and manual controls to excavate, grade, and move soil, rock, debris, and construction materials.
- Load excavated materials onto dump trucks and transport areas as directed.
- Select, install, and use appropriate attachments such as buckets, blades, and scoops based on job requirements.
Jobsite Coordination
- Consult with Superintendents, Project Managers, and crew members regarding job specifications and daily work plans.
- Perform excavation and grading work according to blueprints, site plans, and grade stakes.
- Coordinate movements with ground personnel to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Equipment Inspection & Maintenance
- Perform daily pre-start inspections and safety checks on equipment.
- Identify, report, and document mechanical or safety issues.
- Perform basic maintenance such as cleaning, lubrication, and minor adjustments as assigned.
- Complete required equipment logs and work reports.
Experience
- Prior experience operating excavation or heavy construction equipment required.
- Underground utility or site development experience preferred.
- Experience operating excavators, loaders, backhoes, or similar equipment strongly preferred.
Knowledge & Skills
- Ability to safely operate heavy equipment using hydraulic and manual controls.
- Understanding of excavation methods, grading techniques, and material handling.
- Ability to read and follow blueprints, grade stakes, and site instructions.
- Mechanical awareness to identify equipment issues.
- Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
- Ability to communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors.
Licensing
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Equipment certifications or formal operator training preferred but not required.
Qualifications
- 3–5 years of underground excavation experience.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying conditions.
- Proficient in reading plans and using pipe/grade lasers.
- Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and excavation best practices.
- Must pass background check and drug screening.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and jobsite rules.
- Comply with OSHA, state, and local safety regulations.
- Participate in safety meetings, job hazard analyses, and required training.
- Maintain awareness of surrounding conditions, personnel, and underground utilities.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 lbs frequently.
- Exposure to outdoor elements, uneven terrain, loud noise, and construction hazards.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, in accordance with applicable WA and OR laws.
Why Join Us?
- Competitive hourly pay with overtime opportunities and benefits.
- Mileage reimbursement for travel between job sites.
- Collaborative team environment focused on safety and quality.
- Opportunity to work on high-impact residential and commercial projects.
Apply Today!
Ready to join our team? Click Apply Now or contact HR at Creations Northwest.
Creations Northwest LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. If you require accommodation during the application or hiring process, please notify HR.
Employment Conditions
- Employment is at-will.
- Overtime may be required and will be compensated in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws.
- Pre-employment background checks and drug screening may be required consistent with applicable law.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract, Temporary
Pay: $32.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
