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Sewer Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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We are a Northshore Plumbing & Sewer business with over 20 years of providing excellent customer service and Team development! Seeking an experienced Excavating/Trenchless Division Lead to develop ...

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... sewer, drain, excavation, and wastewater service companies. We are seeking a Lead Install Crew Driver (CDL-A) to join our growing installation division. This is a critical role responsible for ...

Install Plumber

Louisville, KY · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Sewer Install Technician / Lead Installation Plumber Residential Sewer & Excavation | Journeyman Plumber Sign-On Bonus: Up to $3,000 for Qualified Candidates Pay Range: $80,000 - $100,000+ per year ...

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Sewer Excavation information

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$13

$21

$31

How much do sewer excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewer excavation in the United States is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is sewer excavation a good career?

Sewer excavation is a skilled trade involving digging and installing underground sewer systems, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and equipment operation. It offers steady employment opportunities, physical work, and potential for advancement with experience and certifications. The job environment can be physically demanding and may involve working in confined or outdoor spaces.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewer excavation worker?

To thrive as a Sewer Excavation Worker, you need a solid understanding of construction safety, excavation techniques, and experience with heavy machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as backhoes, trenchers, and pipe-laying equipment, along with OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate excavation work that prevents costly errors and maintains public safety.

What is the difference between Sewer Excavation vs Sewer Pipe Layer?

AspectSewer ExcavationSewer Pipe Layer
Primary RoleExcavates trenches and prepares sites for sewer installationLays and installs sewer pipes within excavated trenches
CertificationsOSHA safety training, excavation permitsOSHA safety training, pipe installation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, often in confined spacesWithin trenches, outdoor, close to excavation sites
Industry UsagePart of excavation and site prep teamsPart of pipe installation crews

While Sewer Excavation involves digging trenches and preparing sites, Sewer Pipe Layer focuses on installing and connecting sewer pipes within those trenches. Both roles often work together on sewer projects but have distinct responsibilities and skill sets.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in sewer excavation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in sewer excavation often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, encountering unexpected underground utilities, and managing safety hazards like water infiltration or soil instability. These issues can be addressed through thorough site assessment, use of advanced detection equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and clear communication with team members and utility companies. Ongoing training and teamwork are essential for quickly resolving problems and ensuring a safe, efficient excavation process.

What is sewer excavation?

Sewer excavation is the process of digging trenches or holes to access underground sewer lines for repair, replacement, or installation. This work is often required when sewer pipes are damaged, clogged, or need to be upgraded. Sewer excavation involves specialized equipment and strict safety measures to protect workers and prevent property damage. It is typically performed by trained professionals who understand local regulations and proper excavation techniques.
More about Sewer Excavation jobs
What cities are hiring for Sewer Excavation jobs? Cities with the most Sewer Excavation job openings:
What states have the most Sewer Excavation jobs? States with the most job openings for Sewer Excavation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sewer Excavation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,248 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Excavating Trenchless Division Lead

Northshore Plumbing & Sewer Co.

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$50 - $85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

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Job description

We are a Northshore Plumbing & Sewer business with over 20 years of providing excellent customer service and Team development!  

Seeking an experienced Excavating/Trenchless Division Lead to develop, grow, and lead our expanding trenchless sewer rehabilitation division. This is more than a field position—we're looking for a leader who can help lead one of the premier trenchless plumbing divisions in the NorthShore area.  

Compensation  

$50–$85 per hour (Based on Experience)  

Leadership Advancement Opportunities  

Primary Responsibilities  

Technical Leadership  

  • Perform residential & commercial sewer excavating  
  • Perform residential and commercial sewer camera inspections  
  • Diagnose sewer defects and recommend trenchless solutions  
  • Install CIPP pipe lining systems  
  • Operate hydro jetting equipment  
  • Perform pipe cleaning and preparation  
  • Conduct post-installation quality inspections  

Division Development  

Help build excavating/trenchless division by:  

  • Training future lining technicians  
  • Improving installation efficiency  
  • Maintaining quality standards  
  • Supporting sales and estimating when needed  

Customer Experience  

  • Explain trenchless repair options to customers  
  • Build confidence through education—not pressure  
  • Maintain professionalism on every job  
  • Deliver an exceptional customer experience  

Required Qualifications  

  • 5+ years residential plumbing experience  
  • 2+ years trenchless pipe lining experience  
  • Valid driver's license  
  • Excellent communication skills  
  • Strong troubleshooting abilities  
  • Leadership mindset  

Preferred Experience  

  • CIPP Pipe Lining  
  • Picote Systems  
  • Perma-Liner/Light Ray 
  • Sewer Camera Inspections  
  • Hydro Jetting  
  • ServiceTitan  
  • Crew Leadership  

Work Location: On the road