ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dug Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

TAPANI, Inc.

PipeLayer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$29.04 - $42/hr

Ensure trenches are dug out to the correct grade by guiding the mainline operator, and/or use of shovels, by following lasers, and levels * Develop basic knowledge of equipment, and setup, of lasers ...

All JobsDug JobsDug Jobs in Oregon

Dug information

What are some typical challenges faced by dug operators in the field, and how can they be effectively managed?

Dug operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight spaces, and ensuring the safety of both the equipment and personnel. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough pre-operation checks, clear communication with team members, and adherence to all safety protocols. Continuous training and staying updated on the latest equipment technologies also help operators remain efficient and safe on the job.

What is a dug?

Dug jobs typically refer to positions involving excavation, digging, or earth-moving activities. These roles may include laborers, equipment operators, or technicians working on construction sites, utility projects, landscaping, or archaeological digs. The primary responsibilities often involve using tools or machinery to dig trenches, holes, or foundations, ensuring safety and efficiency. Dug jobs may require physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and occasionally some technical knowledge depending on the industry. Opportunities can be found with construction companies, utility providers, or specialized excavation firms.

What is the difference between Dug vs Carpenter?

AspectDugCarpenter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, or technical school
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor and indoor settingsConstruction sites, residential and commercial buildings
Industry UsageCommonly used in excavation and groundworkUsed in building, finishing, and structural work

While both Dugs and Carpenters work on construction sites, Dugs typically focus on excavation and groundwork, requiring basic skills and on-the-job training. Carpenters, on the other hand, perform more specialized tasks involving building and installing structures, often requiring formal training or apprenticeships. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dug operator?

To thrive as a Dug operator (excavator or heavy equipment operator), you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of safety protocols, and relevant certifications or licenses to operate heavy machinery. Familiarity with equipment like excavators, loaders, and GPS or telematics systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work efficiently and safely on job sites. These skills ensure projects are completed accurately while minimizing risks and maintaining a safe working environment.
What are popular job titles related to Dug jobs in Oregon? For Dug jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dug jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Dug jobs in Oregon are:
Dug jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dug job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

PipeLayer

TAPANI, Inc.

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$29.04 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Tapani Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
  • Since starting in 1983, Tapani has evolved from a single-person operation to a family-led legacy, maintaining a fun and friendly environment from the beginning. With a large team across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, we now cover five diverse market sectors: Civil Site Development, Buildings, Environmental, Transportation, and Utility Infrastructure. The consistent dedication to our core values has helped us grow, creating more opportunities for our current team and the need for new teammates.
    Take a look what our current employees say about working for Tapani: Tapani Careers
    Job Summary
    The pipelayer is responsible for preparing and laying pipe for storm drains, sanitary sewers, waterlines, and other types of pipelines. The pipelayer ensures that trenches are properly excavated, shored, and prepared for pipeline installation. The pipelayer grades and levels trench foundations, aligns and positions pipes, and checks pipe slopes using levels or lasers to ensure they conform to specifications. The pipelayer also ensures that trenches are bedded and backfilled properly so pipe isn't out of round and installs pipes that are on grade and airtight as required. The pipelayer supports the Foreman in monitoring progress, ensuring work is completed safely, and efficiently.
    Responsibilities
    • Oversees Install of Water, Sanitary, Storm pipe systems, and structures related to them.
    • Assist with locating and avoiding existing utilities by potholing via shoveling or vac truck
    • Ensure trenches are dug out to the correct grade by guiding the mainline operator, and/or use of shovels, by following lasers, and levels
    • Develop basic knowledge of equipment, and setup, of lasers, transits, grade rods, and line levels.
    • Develop understanding of how to read survey stakes. E.G. cuts, fills, and elevations
    • Ensure that subsoil has been compacted so that there will be no sags, or bellies resulting from uncompacted and settling soils beneath the pipe. This will include the use of tamping machines and various hand tools.
    • Ensure that the pipe is laid to exact grades by use of laser, and levels
    • Measure and cut pipes to correct lengths, and have knowledge of correct equipment to make said cuts
    • Ensure that all joints, and fittings are inspected, cleaned, aligned, and installed to manufacturers specifications.
    • Be able to use equipment to make taps, or drill holes, for auxiliary lines to be connected
    • Ensure bedding around the pipe has been compacted so that no ovaling of the pipe can occur. By means of mechanical equipment or using a shovel "chinking".
    • Communicate with the tophand to relay information to operators so the pipelayers needs are accommodated without delay to the work
    • Make sure enough cover has been placed over laid pipe before compaction equipment begins, as to not oval the pipeline.
    • Promote a safe work environment, and adhere to company's safety policies.
    • Have current confined space training, and promote the use of confined space entry procedures
    • Assist with general labor as requested

    Job Requirements and Qualifications
    • 6 months - 2 years previous experience preferred.
    • High school education or equivalent.
    • Willingness to work nights and weekends
    • Willingness to work out of town
    • Provide own transportation
    • Ability to lift 50 - 100 lbs on a consistent basis
    • Understanding of the operations and maintenance of all tools and equipment utilized on site, and able to determine the right tools and equipment to do the job
    • Excellent communication skills with co-workers and supervisors.
    • Certification in Confined Space, Rigging and Signaling, and Flagging are preferred.
    • Generally installs waterline, shallow storm runs, shallow sewer runs, electrical conduit, and irrigation without dig ups
    • Installs standard manholes and catch basins quickly
    • General knowledge of the different types of joints and how to fasten

    Working Environment
    • Working conditions for this position will be on project site.
    • The pipelayer must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms, legs, and the whole body. Activities include extensive manual labor, climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
    • Frequent bending, reaching, talking, kneeling and repetitive motions of hands/wrists and feet
    • The pipelayer must use hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and manipulating things
    • Occasional climbing and stooping.
    • Hours worked will be weather dependent along with schedule requirements. Summer time typically is longer hours and winter typically is shorter hours due to daylight.
    • Work may require weekend, and out of town work when projects demand.
    • This can be a noisy work environment so the use of earplugs is encouraged, and at times mandatory

    Compensation and Benefits
    • Pay: $29.04 - $42.00 per hour (based on qualifications and experience)
    • Comprehensive Medical Insurance plans with low to $0 monthly premiums
    • Additional voluntary insurance options include: Dental, Vision, and a wide variety of Supplemental insurances.
    • Flexible Paid Time Off and Sick Time
    • Company Paid Life Insurance
    • 401(k) options with up to 4% employer match
    • See the full list of benefits here

What Tapani Inc. employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply