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Pipe Crew Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Understand safe working loads and signals * Handle trench boxes of all sizes and shapes WHAT WE ARE ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Pigeon Forge, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Understand safe working loads and signals * Handle trench boxes of all sizes and shapes WHAT WE ARE ...

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Understand safe working loads and signals * Handle trench boxes of all sizes and shapes WHAT WE ARE ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Backfilling the ditch properly after the pipe is laid * Do the backfill in a safe manner as part of a crew * Perform operator level maintenance on the machine * Move the trench boxes from the ditch ...

Showing results 21-40

Pipe Crew Operator information

What is a pipe crew operator?

Pipe Crew Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy equipment and machinery to install, repair, and maintain underground piping systems, such as water, sewer, and storm drains. They work as part of a construction crew and are responsible for ensuring pipes are laid correctly according to project specifications. Their duties include operating excavators, loaders, and other machines, as well as assisting with manual labor when needed. Pipe Crew Operators must follow safety protocols and often work outdoors in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive as a Pipe Crew Operator, you need expertise in pipe installation, trench safety, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certifications such as OSHA safety training. Familiarity with heavy machinery like excavators, trenchers, and pipe lasers is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help ensure efficient and safe project completion. These skills are crucial for maintaining job site safety, minimizing errors, and delivering high-quality infrastructure projects on time.

What are some common challenges faced by pipe crew operators on construction sites?

Pipe Crew Operators often work in varied outdoor environments where weather conditions and uneven terrain can pose significant challenges. Coordinating with other construction teams and ensuring accurate pipe placement requires strong communication skills and careful attention to detail. Additionally, operators must stay vigilant about safety procedures due to the use of heavy machinery and close proximity to excavation areas. Adaptability and problem-solving are key, as unexpected obstacles like underground utilities or soil instability may arise during installation.

What is the difference between Pipe Crew Operator vs Pipefitter?

AspectPipe Crew OperatorPipefitter
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL (if required)Journeyman or apprentice pipefitter license, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, pipelines, industrial plantsIndustrial facilities, power plants, piping systems
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with pipe installation, operating machinery, site prepDesigning, fabricating, installing, and maintaining piping systems

While both roles involve working with pipes, the Pipe Crew Operator primarily assists in installation and operates machinery, whereas the Pipefitter is responsible for designing and installing complex piping systems. The Pipe Crew Operator typically requires safety training and possibly a CDL, while Pipefitters need specialized certifications and technical skills. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial settings, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pipe Crew Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Pipe Crew Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Pipe Crew Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Lead Excavator Operator- Pipe

Nashville, TN • On-site

Garney Construction
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GARNEY

An Excavator Operator job is available at Garney. To be considered for this position you must have previous construction experience. As an Excavator Operator, you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Operate an excavator safely as part of a crew
  • Perform operator level maintenance on the machine
  • Understand safe working loads and signals
  • Handle trench boxes of all sizes and shapes
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
  • Five years of construction experience
  • Firm knowledge of equipment operations and maintenance
  • Must be able to work overtime
  • Must be willing to travel
LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
CONTACT US

If you are interested in the Excavator Operator position, please clickAPPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visitcareers.garney.com 

If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Alondra Dominguez at 615-266-6156 or by email at: alondra.dominguez@garney.com and include the job title and location to ensure a prompt response. Please complete an application if you are interested in the position. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates.

Garney and its subsidiaries are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Garney is a background screening, drug-free workplace. You may be required to complete a post-offer physical and a site-specific background check for this position.

Agency Disclaimer:  All vendors must have a signed Garney Agreement, authorized by the Executive Team, to receive payment for any placement. Verbal or written commitments made by anyone other than a member of the Executive Team will not be considered binding.  Any unsolicited resumes sent to Garney or submitted to employees outside of the Recruiting Team will be deemed the property of Garney. In such cases, Garney will not be obligated to pay any placement fees.


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