Job Title: Excavator Operator
Location: Shelocta, PA – Travel to Surrounding Project Areas
Department: Pipeline & Facilities Construction
Reports To: Site Supervisor
Now Hiring: Excavator Operator – Pipeline Construction
West Penn Energy Services LLC is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Excavator Operator to support pipeline and facilities construction projects based out of Shelocta, PA, with travel to surrounding job sites. This is a field-based role that requires experience operating equipment in active pipeline construction environments, including trenching, backfilling, and site prep.
We’re looking for a dependable team member who understands the demands of working in rugged terrain and values precision, production, and safety.
Key Responsibilities:
•Operate excavators to support tasks such as trenching, grading, backfilling, and lifting pipe during pipeline and facility construction.
•Work safely and efficiently in coordination with laborers and other operators.
•Perform routine equipment checks and inspections; report any mechanical issues promptly.
•Support site setup, cleanup, and equipment transport/loading when needed.
•Maintain awareness of crew locations and surroundings to prevent incidents or damage.
•Follow direction from site leadership and adhere strictly to company safety protocols and project requirements.
•Operate in a production-based environment while maintaining high safety and quality standards.
Qualifications:
•Minimum 6 months of experience operating excavators in pipeline, utility, or civil construction.
•Proficient in trenching, fine grading, and working on slopes or uneven terrain.
•Strong understanding of excavation safety and awareness around underground utilities.
•Willingness to perform labor tasks when not operating equipment.
•Ability to work in changing weather conditions and physically demanding environments.
•Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to the Shelocta yard or assigned job site.
•Additional equipment operation skills (e.g., skid steers, backhoes) are a plus.
•OSHA 10/30 certification or pipeline safety training (preferred).
Working Conditions:
•Outdoor work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain).
•Physically demanding environment including climbing in/out of equipment and assisting with site labor.
•Travel to multiple job sites in the region; overnight stays may occasionally be required.
•Extended hours and overtime may be needed to meet project timelines.
What We Offer:
•Competitive hourly wage plus per diem for eligible travel/work away from home
•Health insurance with 75% of the premium paid by the employer and 25% paid by the employee on all plan levels (eligible after 30 days)
•Dental insurance (100% employee paid; eligible after 30 days)
•Vision insurance (100% employer paid; eligible after 30 days)
•Basic life insurance policy of $10,000 fully covered by the employer
•401(k) retirement plan with company match (eligible after 6 months)
•Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays (eligible after 6 months of employment)
West Penn Energy Services LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to maintaining a work environment built on respect, safety, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.