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Pipe Layer Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL · On-site

Perform the installation and maintenance of pipe laying and pipeline repairs, repair of water mains ... Operating assigned equipment . Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed ...

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Pipe Layer Operator information

What is the difference between Pipe Layer Operator vs Trench Worker?

AspectPipe Layer OperatorTrench Worker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, basic construction certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, heavy machineryConstruction sites, outdoor, manual labor
Job ResponsibilitiesInstalling underground pipes, operating machineryExcavating trenches, assisting with pipe installation

The Pipe Layer Operator and Trench Worker roles often overlap in construction projects, but the Pipe Layer Operator primarily focuses on operating machinery and installing underground pipes, while the Trench Worker assists with excavation and site preparation. Both roles require safety certifications and work outdoors in similar environments, but their specific duties differ based on machinery operation versus manual labor tasks.

What is a pipe layer operator?

Pipe Layer Operators are skilled construction workers responsible for laying and aligning pipes for sewers, drains, water mains, and other utilities. They operate heavy machinery to dig trenches, position pipes, and ensure proper alignment and sealing according to project specifications. Their role is essential in creating and maintaining infrastructure for water, sewage, and drainage systems. Pipe Layer Operators must have knowledge of safety procedures, blueprints, and pipe installation techniques to ensure effective and efficient work.

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

Pipe Layer Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and ensuring precise alignment of pipes to meet project specifications. Coordination with other team members, such as equipment operators and site supervisors, is crucial to maintain safety and efficiency. Additionally, operators must be vigilant about following safety protocols and adapting to changes in site conditions to prevent delays or hazards.

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

To thrive as a Pipe Layer Operator, you need experience with underground utility installation, knowledge of pipe materials, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment such as excavators, trenchers, and laser alignment systems, as well as relevant safety certifications like OSHA, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely on job sites. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate pipe placement, maintain project timelines, and uphold safety standards in construction environments.

How do you become a pipe layer operator?

To become a pipe layer operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate heavy machinery and install underground pipes. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with tools like trenchers and backhoes is beneficial.
What are popular job titles related to Pipe Layer Operator jobs in Illinois? For Pipe Layer Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pipe Layer Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Pipe Layer Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Pipe Layer Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Pipe Layer Operator job openings:
Pipe Layer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipe Layer Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Water & Sewer Worker I

Village of Oak Park Illinois

Oak Park, IL • On-site

$33.48 - $37.21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description
Union: SEIU Water & Sewer
Local: 73
FLSA: Non-exempt
Hours: 40.0 per week
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, perform a wide variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, repair, cleaning and maintenance of Village water and sewer systems, metering equipment, traffic control devices and all related facilities. Employees in this class are subject to 24-hour call outs.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is an entry level class within the Water & Sewer Worker series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Water & Sewer Worker II by the performance of more routine duties. Employees must be able to operate all heavy equipment. Employees at this level receive instructions or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are expected to exercise proper judgement in selecting work methods and in planning details of the work tasks. Experienced employees at this level may perform as a Lead Worker on designated work assignments.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential duties and responsibilities
Safety
  1. Utilize proper safety work practices related to all work performed, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), shoring, confined spaces and other safety related equipment and procedures; direct and control traffic around work sites utilizing proper work zone traffic control per IDOT

Equipment and Operations
  1. Ability to operate construction and maintenance equipment such as dump trucks, front end loader, backhoe, skid steer, vactor, sewer jetter,

  1. Ability to operate jack-hammers, concrete saws, sewer rodder, sewer tv equipment; maintain hand tools and assigned equipment; identify equipment needs for each assigned

  1. Ability to perform snow removal and ice control duties as

Customer Service
  1. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely

Sewer System Maintenance
  1. Work as part of a sewer maintenance crew; inspect and clear obstructions from storm drains, sewer lines; make sewer line connections; flush and televise

Water System Maintenance
  1. Perform the installation and maintenance of pipe laying and pipeline repairs, repair of water mains, water services, fire hydrants and valves; flush main water line and hydrants as

  1. Ability to exercise, inspect and locate difficulties on valves throughout the water distribution

  1. Ability to make service connections; tap main lines and boring for service installation; replace customer service lines in accordance with State Plumbing Codes, Illinois EPA Regulations and the Standard Specifications for Water & Sewer Construction in Illinois.

  1. Ability to inspect, diagnose, repair and locate mechanical difficulties on a variety of mechanical equipment including water meters, remote meter reading systems.

Locating and Recordkeeping
  1. Ability to locate and mark underground

  1. Accurately measure and record location of new underground facilities (water/sewer lines) and meter

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  1. Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

  1. Methods and techniques general construction, maintenance and repair related to the area of work assigned.

  1. Operational characteristics of mechanical equipment and tools used in the area of work assigned.

Ability to:
  • Perform unskilled and semi-skilled maintenance, construction and repair work in the area of work assigned.

  • Operate a variety of vehicular and stationary mechanical equipment in a safe and effective manner.

  • Perform a variety of manual tasks for extended periods of time and in unfavorable weather conditions.

  • Perform heavy manual labor.

  • Work independently in the absence of supervision.

  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

  • Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance.

  • Establish and maintain interpersonal skills in the workplace to effectively communicate and interact with others.

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include the following:
  • Walking or standing for extended periods of time
  • Operating assigned equipment.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:
  • Making observations
  • Communicating with others
  • Operating assigned equipment and vehicles.

Diversity Equity & Inclusion Statement
The Village of Oak Park commits itself to diversity, equity and inclusion by recognizing that creating a mutually respectful, multicultural and equitable environment does not happen on its own, it must be intentional. This includes providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, military or veteran status or any other characteristics
Requirements
Experience and Training Guidelines
Experience: One year of general construction maintenance experience performing field maintenance work within the area of responsibility. AND
Training: High School diploma or equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.
License or Certificate: Possession of or ability to obtain appropriate, valid B CDL drivers license, with air brake endorsement within the first six months of employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Travel from site to site; some exposure to dust and noise; exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions, caused by the weather, some heavy lifting, standing, climbing; may work at heights.

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