Description
Operate hydraulic excavators to dig, trench, grade, and load materials on construction and utility sites, following plans, signals, and safety standards.
- • Use joysticks, pedals, and controls to operate hydraulic excavators and attachments.
- • Conduct pre-start inspections and set up the machine for site and soil conditions.
- • Follow hand signals, grade stakes, and layout markings to meet specifications.
- • Review plans, utility locates, and machine limits to plan safe, efficient digging.
- • Dig trenches, footings, and basements; backfill; grade; and break rock or concrete.
- • Grease, adjust, and perform minor repairs; replace bucket teeth, pins, and wear parts.
- • Load trucks and move spoil, pipe bedding, and aggregates around the site.
- • Check depths, slopes, and elevations with lasers, GPS, or grade-checking tools.
- • Receive and clarify work orders, dig permits, and haul or disposal instructions.
- • Adjust cut angles, benching, and reach based on soil, slope, and stability.
- • Track the excavator safely to and within job sites; assist with transport loading.
- • Assist with site prep and cleanup, including hand shoveling and rigging.
- • Coordinate with ground crew for spotting, staking, trench boxes, and traffic control.
- • Direct placement of mats, cribbing, or shoring to maintain stability when lifting or digging.
- • Build and maintain ramps, benches, swales, and access paths.
- • Manage soft ground, water, and slide conditions; dewater and de-muck excavations.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
