Job Description
Construction Laborer Trenching & Underground Utilities The Construction Laborer supports underground utility, trenching, and duct-bank installation crews by performing physical and semi-skilled tasks on active construction sites. This position works closely with equipment operators and foremen to support the safe, efficient, and high-quality installation of underground infrastructure for large-scale site development projects. The Laborer must demonstrate safety awareness, teamwork, reliability, and the ability to work in a fast-paced construction environment. Laborer Classification Level T1 Laborer (Senior / Experienced) 5+ years of experience in underground utilities, excavation, trenching, or site development Performs complex trenching tasks with minimal supervision Leads by example on safety and productivity Assists foremen and mentors junior laborers Can operate smaller pieces of equipment efficiently such as a Skid Steer. OSHA 10 or 30 strongly preferred; trench safety or Competent Person a plus Key Responsibilities Site & Utility Support Assist in trenching, pipe laying, duct-bank, and vault installation Perform manual excavation, trench cleanout, and hand digging as required Prepare, clean, and maintain work areas, trenches, and equipment Hand-grade, backfill, and compact soil using shovels, tampers, or mechanical compactors Assist with setting, moving, and removing trench boxes, slide-rail systems, and shoring equipment Install conduit spacers, tracer wire, and encasement for electrical and communication duct banks Support concrete encasement and formwork placement under supervision Assist with site restoration activities, including grading and surface preparation Spot, signal, and communicate with heavy equipment operators during excavation and backfilling Safety & Compliance Comply with all company safety policies and procedures Follow OSHA regulations, including OSHA Subpart P (Trenching & Excavation) Participate in daily safety briefings, Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) meetings, and toolbox talks Properly use required personal protective equipment at all times (PPE) Maintain awareness of excavation hazards, underground utilities, traffic, and heavy equipment Promptly report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near misses to supervision Assist with traffic control, barricading, and trench protection as assigned Equipment & Material Handling Load, unload, and organize materials, tools, and equipment Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of tools and equipment Safely operate hand tools and small power tools Assist with verifying measurements, grades, elevations, and alignment Teamwork & Productivity Work cooperatively with foremen, equipment operators, and crew members Maintain productivity expectations while ensuring quality workmanship and safety compliance Adapt to changing site conditions, schedules, and work assignments Demonstrate professionalism, respect, and accountability on all job sites Qualifications Required Minimum of 5 years of experience in underground utilities, site development, excavation, or general construction Knowledge of trenching, shoring, and safe excavation practices Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions in English Reliable transportation to job sites within the region Willingness to comply with drug testing and company safety requirements Consistent attendance, punctuality, and strong commitment to teamwork Preferred OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Certification Experience supporting mission-critical infrastructure projects Familiarity with duct-bank installation, conduit alignment, or vault installation Trench safety training or Competent Person designation Physical Requirements - Ability to perform physical labor for extended periods (810 hours per day) Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in trenches Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions Ability to safely wear required personal protective equipment Work Environment - Outdoor construction sites with exposure to dirt, dust, noise, vibration, and heavy equipment Fast-paced, physically demanding work environment May require overtime, weekend, or night work based on project needs Projects primarily located in Ohio and the surrounding states