1

Pipe Crew Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... pipes or wires, prior to beginning work • Monitor operations to ensure that health and safety ... from crew members • Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials using trucks ...

Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work. * Monitor operations ... crew members. * Operate tractors or bulldozers to perform such tasks as clearing land, mixing ...

Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work. * Monitor operations ... crew members. * Operate tractors or bulldozers to perform such tasks as clearing land, mixing ...

Crew Worker

TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.76/hr

Install, dig, and clean ditches, drainage pipes, head walls, catch basins, storm drains and other ... Equipment Operated * Variety of vehicles, equipment and tools including, but not limited to ...

Utility Foreman

Franklin, TN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Keep clear and direct communication with crew members, superintendents, clients, client ... Ensure operators properly maintain & thoroughly clean equipment and hand tools at the end of each ...

CDL Directional Driller

Johnson City, TN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

... Directional Drill Operators and Locators experienced in safely drilling and pulling pipe ... Ensure compliance to safety rules and regulations for the safety of the crew and public.

CDL Directional Driller

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

... Directional Drill Operators and Locators experienced in safely drilling and pulling pipe ... Ensure compliance to safety rules and regulations for the safety of the crew and public.

Crew Worker

Springfield, TN · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Install, dig, and clean ditches, drainage pipes, head walls, catch basins, storm drains and other ... Equipment Operated: * Variety of vehicles, equipment and tools including, but not limited to ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Backfill Operator

Nashville, TN • On-site

Garney Construction
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 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
A Backfill Operatorjobis available at Garney. To be considered for this position you must have previous construction experience. As a Backfill 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
  • 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

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
  • Two to five years in construction experience
  • Utility work experience preferred
  • Firm Knowledge of equipment operations and maintenance
  • Must be willing to work overtime and 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 Backfill Operator position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visit careers.garney.com
If you have questions or would like more information, please call Alondra Dominguez at (615) 266-6156 or by email alondra.dominguez@garney.comand 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.
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.
THE BENEFITS OF WORKING AT GARNEY
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 & disability policy
Free access to healthcare coordinators
Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
Access to consultations with legal/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

BUILDING SUSTAINABLE FUTURES WITH THE WORLD'S MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCES-WATER AND PEOPLE.™
EEO - it's the law poster
Right to work
This organization participates in E-verify

What Garney Construction employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom