Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Heavy Civil Excavation Foreman (Sitework & Heavy Equipment)
Company Name: Carrigan Excavating
Pay Range: $23–$28 per hour (based on experience) + Performance Bonus
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Location: Lamar, CO
Type of Construction/Work we perform: Heavy Equipment / Rigging (Residential, Commercial, Government or Federal)

Carrigan Excavating is seeking two experienced Heavy Civil Excavation Foremen (Sitework & Heavy Equipment) to lead field crews across residential, commercial, and government excavation projects throughout Southeastern Colorado. This role is responsible for planning, coordinating, supervising, and executing job site operations while ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.

The Foreman serves as the on-site leader—managing operators and laborers, maintaining quality standards, enforcing safety protocols, and acting as the primary communication link between the field and management. If you are a hands-on leader who takes pride in organization, accountability, and developing strong crews, this opportunity offers long-term growth within a respected excavation company.

Carrigan Excavating is a family-owned excavation company serving Southeastern Colorado for over 30 years. We support local communities, farmers, ranchers, and businesses with reliable excavation services across residential, commercial, and government sectors.

Our mission centers on service—to our team, our customers, and our community. We are committed to safety, efficiency, innovation, and creating opportunities for growth and advancement. At Carrigan Excavating, leadership is earned through integrity, craftsmanship, and a commitment to helping others succeed.

• Ensure all crew members arrive prepared and ready to work on time

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee daily job site operations

• Organize workflow and delegate responsibilities to Operators and Laborers

• Maintain job progress to complete projects within estimated timeframes

• Read and interpret job scopes, blueprints, layouts, and project specifications

• Coordinate equipment and material needs with the Manager

• Maintain control over labor, materials, and equipment costs

• Enforce all safety training and ensure OSHA compliance on job sites

• Ensure all equipment is operated safely and responsibly

• Report injuries or job disruptions immediately to the Manager

• Monitor subcontractors and ensure all work meets company standards

• Communicate daily job progress, percentage complete, and project updates to the Manager

• Complete required documentation including timecards, quality control forms, and job tracking reports

• Provide job site training and mentorship to crew members

• Conduct quarterly employee evaluations and provide performance recommendations

• Ensure job sites are left clean, secure, and safe at the end of each workday

• Maintain strong communication with both management and customers to ensure expectations are met
  

• 3 years of experience in excavation or construction leadership preferred

• High School Diploma or GED preferred

• Valid driver’s license without restrictions

• CDL-A license preferred

• Equipment operation certifications preferred

• Strong understanding of excavation processes, site work, and heavy equipment operations

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, job scopes, and layouts

• Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and job site compliance requirements

• Strong leadership, conflict resolution, and team-building skills

• Ability to manage crews, subcontractors, and multiple project priorities

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work outdoors in varying seasonal weather conditions
  

• Compensation & Financial Benefits

  • Weekly pay cycle

  • Performance bonus opportunities

  • Retirement savings program

  • Employee stock or profit share opportunities

  • Referral bonus program

  • Prevailing wage project opportunities

• Health & Wellness

  • Medical insurance

  • Dental insurance

  • Vision insurance

  • Health Savings Account (HSA)

  • Safety equipment provided

• Work-Life Balance

  • Paid holidays

  • Paid vacation

  • Paid sick leave

  • Paid parental leave

• Career Growth & Development

  • Paid training and certifications

  • Apprenticeship and mentorship programs

  • Clear advancement opportunities within Field Operations

• Additional Perks

  • Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (as applicable)

  • Annual trips and company outings

  • Team events

  • Employee rewards programs

  • Community involvement initiatives
    

• Full-Time

• Monday – Friday

• Overtime may be available based on project needs
  

• Based in Southeastern Colorado

• Remote job sites throughout the region

• Primarily outdoor work in seasonal conditions

• Local travel required between project sites
  

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.