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Excavation Apprentice - Sewer & Water Line Construction
Position Summary
We are seeking an Excavation Apprentice to support our residential sewer, water service, and underground utility replacement operations at MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Columbia, MO. This position works directly alongside our Lead Excavation Operator, performing excavation, site preparation, equipment support, utility locating support, and restoration activities.
This is a long-term career opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating equipment, and learning a specialized trade. Our team performs residential sewer lateral replacements, water service replacements, spot repairs, and trenchless pipelining projects that help homeowners protect and restore critical underground infrastructure.
Previous excavation experience is helpful but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate with construction experience, mechanical aptitude, and a strong work ethic.
Compensation:
• $18-$23/hour, depending on experience
• Overtime opportunities available
• Paid training
• Career advancement opportunities
Duties/Responsibilities:
• Assist with residential sewer lateral replacements and repairs
• Assist with water service replacements
• Assist with trenchless liner installations
• Prepare and maintain job sites
• Load, unload, and transport materials and equipment
• Assist with excavation and trench safety operations
• Operate excavators and other equipment as trained
• Pull equipment trailers and assist with equipment transport
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Assist with jobsite cleanup and restoration
• Follow company safety policies and procedures
• Work closely with the Lead Excavation Operator to learn excavation operations and underground utility work
Requirements/Qualifications:
• Willingness to learn specialized skills related to excavation, underground utilities, and trenchless pipe rehabilitation
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand and power tools
• Ability to lift and move heavy materials and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Current driver's license with good driving record
• Reliable transportation and attendance
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Preferred Skills (Not Required):
• Trailer towing experience
• Excavator experience
• Landscaping, concrete, utility, plumbing, septic, grading, or public works experience
• Construction experience
• Skid steer experience
• Experience in sewer drain cleaning and hydro-jetting
Who This Position Is Perfect For (this role is a great fit for someone who):
• Has worked in landscaping, concrete, utilities, plumbing, septic, grading, public works, or general construction
• Enjoys working outdoors and seeing tangible results from their work
• Wants to learn equipment operation and specialized construction skills
• Takes pride in quality workmanship and working safely
• Is looking for a long-term career rather than just another job
• Wants to grow with a company that invests in training and development
Physical Demands / Working Conditions:
To adequately perform the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, kneel, squat, stoop, use hands to handle controls, hear, and talk. The employee frequently must reach with their hands and arms.

• Work outdoors in all seasons
• Lift and/or move 50 lbs. or more
• Work around excavation equipment and active construction sites
• Enter trenches and confined work areas when safe and permitted
• Perform physically demanding labor throughout the workday
• The work environment varies depending on the season and scope of work. Employees must be adaptable to changing priorities and maintain effective communication with customers, vendors, and team members.

Safety Considerations:
All employees of MasterTech must consider safety as their primary responsibility. General knowledge of safe working practices and applicable federal/state OSHA requirements is required.
Ready to build a long-term career in a specialized trade with a company that truly values you?
Apply today and let's build something great together.
Career Growth:
This position is designed for individuals interested in building a long-term career in excavation and underground utilities.
You will work directly alongside an experienced Lead Excavation Operator while learning specialized underground utility construction, excavation safety, equipment operation, sewer service replacement, water service replacement, and trenchless rehabilitation techniques.
As skills develop, qualified employees may have opportunities to learn equipment operation and advance into Equipment Operator and Lead Operator roles over time.
📢 MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.