Excavator Operator (Pipe) - Jacksonville, FL

Job Description

Job Description

Excavator Operator (Pipe) – Jacksonville, FL

Are you tired of being treated like a number?

Would you like to work for a company where the owner knows you and everyone else on the job site by name?

Are you looking for the next level in your career as an excavator operator?

If you’re saying YES , and you know you have what it takes to advance in your career, our Excavator Operator position at Petticoat-Schmitt might be the right fit for you.

As an Excavator Operator at Petticoat-Schmitt, you’ll be an important part of our team — digging trenches and laying pipe for large-scale civil construction projects that improve communities across the Southeast.

An Exciting New Career

We aren’t just looking for an excavator operator. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow into the next step of their career — learning new skills, taking on new responsibilities, and being part of a company that invests in you.

At Petticoat-Schmitt, you’ll receive hands-on training and certification through our in-house development programs. You’ll also have ongoing opportunities to advance to new roles within the team — whether that’s leading a crew or learning new equipment and systems.

We work together to build life-changing infrastructure . Our focus on professionalism, communication, safety, and timeliness has made Petticoat-Schmitt one of the most respected civil contractors in the Southeast. If you’d be proud to be part of a team that takes care of each other and delivers excellence, this is the place for you.

Your Responsibilities as an Excavator Operator

As an Excavator Operator at Petticoat-Schmitt, you’ll need a solid background working with a pipe crew and safely operating heavy equipment.

Excavate trenches for underground utilities such as water, storm, and sewer lines.

Operate the excavator safely and efficiently around crews and existing utilities.

Read and follow grade stakes and layout directions to maintain accurate elevations.

Support the crew by assisting with setting pipe and ensuring trench safety.

Perform daily equipment inspections and complete pre-operation checklists.

Keep the work area organized, safe, and free from hazards.

Follow instructions from the foreman and work closely with your team to achieve production goals.

How to Know You’ll Be a Great Fit

This role isn’t for just anyone. You’ll thrive here if you :

Have proven experience as an excavator operator on a pipe crew.

Understand the importance of precision, safety, and teamwork.

Show up early, ready to work, and set the tone for the day.

Are dependable, humble, and eager to learn new skills.

Take pride in your work and in being part of a team that builds things that last.

How You’ll Measure Success

You’ll know you’re excelling when :

You maintain a consistent record of safety and quality.

You help your team meet or beat production goals.

You stay proactive — learning, communicating, and improving daily.

You earn the respect of your crew by showing reliability and a strong work ethic.

You’ll Love It Here If You Live Our A.C.T. Values

Accountability – Safety first, plan the work, communicate clearly, execute the plan, and take ownership.

Character – Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility — no jerks allowed.

Team – Shared goals, servant leadership, developing others, and determination to win.

Requirements for the Excavator Operator Position

At least 3 years of heavy civil excavator operation experience on a pipe crew.

Experience excavating for and installing large-diameter utility pipes in commercial construction.

Knowledge of safe trenching and excavation practices.

Ability to read and follow grade stakes and pipe layout.

Reliable transportation and willingness to commute within a 70-mile radius of Jacksonville, FL.

Availability for overtime and weekend work as needed.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

Details About the Opportunity

Petticoat-Schmitt offers an exciting and challenging work environment, competitive compensation, and a strong benefits package. When you join our team, you can look forward to :

“ Win the Year ” Company Performance Incentive – After meeting minimum standards, 30% of company profits are shared among employees.

Monthly Safety Bonus – Earned when the company goes recordable-incident free.

PTO available and 6 Paid Holidays.

Comprehensive Health Coverage Options – Multiple medical plan choices, including a 100% company-paid High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) for employee-only coverage.

Dental, Vision, Short / Long-Term Disability.

Up to $50,000 employer-paid life insurance.

401(k) with 100% match on the first 4%.

Ongoing training, development, and advancement opportunities.

Hours Information

Normal hours are Monday–Friday, 7 : 00 AM – 4 : 00 PM.

Hours may extend depending on production needs.

Some Saturdays as necessary. Sundays off.

Expect approximately 40–45 hours per week.

About Petticoat-Schmitt

Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL since 2007, Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contractor specializing in site development, underground utilities, roadway, and water / wastewater treatment plant construction throughout the Southeast.

At Petticoat-Schmitt, we take our people and our culture seriously. It’s not what’s written on the wall — it’s what walks down the hall.

Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.