Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Position is available in either Lawrence or Topeka

The Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) isn't just about roads; we're a self-funded team dedicated to keeping Kansas moving forward. We take care of 236 miles of crucial roadway, connecting communities from the Oklahoma border all the way to Kansas City. Join us, and you'll be part of a team that provides a safe, reliable, and customer-valued transportation system. We work hand-in-hand with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) to maintain a strong and connected transportation system. Our 300+ employees are the heart of this effort, working together to maintain, preserve, and enhance the Kansas Turnpike.

Supporting the essential utility systems that keep KTA operating safely and efficiently, the Utilities Superintendent plays a critical leadership role in maintaining and improving the infrastructure that serves employees, customers, and operations across the Kansas Turnpike. You'll oversee the operation, maintenance, repair, and installation of electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and power generation systems while leading a skilled team of maintenance professionals.

You'll coordinate maintenance activities, equipment upgrades, and infrastructure improvements, balancing technical expertise, operational efficiency, and team leadership. Working closely with contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders, you'll develop project specifications, manage budgets, oversee purchasing, and ensure work is completed safely and in compliance with applicable standards. From maintaining critical utility systems to planning for future operational needs, you'll play an important role in supporting KTA's long-term success.

Success in this role requires strong leadership, sound technical judgment, and effective communication. You'll provide direction and support to utility and maintenance personnel, oversee workforce development and performance management, and serve as a resource for resolving complex operational challenges. As a collaborative leader and problem-solver, you'll help drive efficient use of labor, materials, and equipment while maintaining a focus on safety, service, and reliability.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices used in operating, maintaining, and repairing electrical, plumbing, sewerage, and other mechanical systems.
• Extensive experience in the maintenance and repair of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems and related equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions required in the operations and maintenance of mechanical systems.
• Use of computer, telephone, and general office equipment.
• Ability to trouble shoot problems.
• Ability to supervise and direct skilled and unskilled workers.
• Ability to plan, prepare specifications, and direct new installations and major repair projects.
• Ability to work from drawings and specifications and to read sketches and blueprints.
• Ability to understand verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to make simple estimates for time and materials required on projects.
• Ability to use HVAC tools, hand tools, power tools, plumbing and sewer machines, fiber machines.
• Ability to use various jobsite equipment including: digging equipment, excavators, trenchers, rock saw, vactron, skid steer, bucket truck and lifts, loader, fiber blowing machine, air compressor, etc.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Water tower inspection

Required Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in the electrical, plumbing, or mechanical trades.
• Minimum two year of supervisory experience.
• Underground storage tank operator training.
• Experience with adjusting defects in systems and equipment.
• Experience with fiber location and installation.
• Pump and boiler repair.
• Ditch and rescue work.
• Certification, License, Registration
• Master electrical or plumbing license for the state of Kansas; HVAC/mechanical certification.
• CDL
• KDHE wastewater operator license.
• First aid / CPR
• Backflow certified, preferred
• Pipe fusing certified, preferred
• Universal EPA certificate, preferred
• Confined space certification, preferred
• Must obtain required CEUs annually to maintain certifications.

Certification, License, Registration

• Master electrical or plumbing license for the state of Kansas; HVAC/mechanical certification.
• CDL
• KDHE wastewater operator license.
• First aid / CPR
• Backflow certified, preferred
• Pipe fusing certified, preferred
• Universal EPA certificate, preferred
• Confined space certification, preferred
• Must obtain required CEUs annually to maintain certifications.

Additional Postings available from Kansas Turnpike Authority