Trainee Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Michigan

Fuel System Construction, Tank Installation & Petroleum Site Work

Company: United Petroleum Equipment

Location: Battle Creek, MI

Pay: $30 - $35+ per hour, Based on experience

Employment Type: Full-time

Travel: Regional travel required; overnight travel as needed

Project Scope: Gas stations, commercial fueling sites, schools, bus garages, underground / above-ground tank systems, dispensers, product lines, and petroleum equipment installations

About the Role

United Petroleum Equipment is hiring a Petroleum Construction Installer to support fuel system construction and installation projects across Michigan and surrounding areas.

This is a hands-on field role for someone with construction, mechanical, equipment, or petroleum site experience. The right person is comfortable working outdoors, operating around active jobsites, installing fuel system components, and helping complete projects safely and correctly from start to finish.

This is not a basic general labor role. We are looking for someone with strong field experience who can grow into a key installer / lead-level contributor on petroleum construction projects. The client clarified this role is closer to an experienced installer or foreman-type profile than an entry-level laborer.

What You’ll Do

• Install and support petroleum fueling systems on commercial fueling sites.
• Work on underground and above-ground fuel tank installations.
• Install product lines, sumps, dispensers, pumps, and related fueling equipment.
• Support new construction, retrofit, repair, and replacement projects.
• Assist with concrete island work, small flatwork, and site restoration when needed.
• Work around mini excavators, track machines, Bobcats, and other small equipment.
• Help prepare sites, dig, set equipment, run lines, and complete installation steps safely.
• Coordinate with electricians and other trades to complete petroleum site projects.
• Follow all safety procedures for fuel system and active construction environments.
• Travel to project sites across Michigan and nearby states as needed.
• Work overnight projects when required; per diem and lodging are provided when applicable.

United Petroleum’s work includes tanks, product lines, sumps, dispensers, and pump systems at locations such as gas stations, schools, bus garages, and commercial fueling sites.

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on construction, mechanical, equipment, excavation, utility, petroleum, or fuel system installation experience.
• Ability to work safely around active jobsites, underground utilities, heavy materials, and fueling equipment.
• Experience using hand tools, power tools, and jobsite equipment.
• Ability to read basic plans, follow installation instructions, and take direction from project leads.
• Strong Computer Skills and must be able to set grades and read detailed blueprints.
• Comfortable working outdoors in changing weather and jobsite conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical field work.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Willingness to travel regionally for project work.
• Comfortable with occasional overnight travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Petroleum construction or fuel system installation experience.
• Experience installing underground tanks, above-ground tanks, product lines, sumps, or dispensers.
• Gas station, commercial fueling, or convenience store construction experience.
• Experience operating or working around mini excavators, skid steers, Bobcats, or track machines.
• Concrete, utility, excavation, pipefitting, plumbing, electrical, or mechanical construction background.
• CDL or equipment certifications.
• Experience leading a small crew or training newer field employees.
• Knowledge of petroleum construction safety practices and compliance requirements.

What Makes Someone a Strong Fit

A strong candidate may come from petroleum construction, excavation, utility construction, mechanical installation, concrete, equipment operation, or commercial construction.

You may be a strong fit if you have experience with:

• Fuel tank installation
• Fuel dispenser installation
• Underground utility or pipe installation
• Product line installation
• Gas station construction
• Commercial fueling sites
• Excavation or site prep
• Small equipment operation
• Concrete islands or flatwork
• Mechanical system installation
• Field crew leadership

Candidates Who May Not Be a Fit

This role may not be the right fit for someone who:

• Has only done light labor with no mechanical or construction experience.
• Is not comfortable working outdoors or around excavation / equipment.
• Cannot travel regionally for project work.
• Is looking for a shop-only or office-based role.
• Has no interest in learning petroleum fueling systems and related compliance requirements.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Weekly pay
• Overtime potential
• 401(k) with employer match
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Paid holidays
• Vacation and sick time
• Paid training and safety training
• Company-provided uniforms and safety gear
• Per diem and lodging for approved overnight travel
• Steady, year-round work with a growing petroleum equipment company

About United Petroleum Equipment

United Petroleum Equipment provides petroleum construction, installation, service, and compliance support for commercial fueling environments. Our team works on fuel systems across gas stations, schools, bus garages, and other commercial sites.

We are part of a family-owned environment that values safety, quality, teamwork, and long-term employee growth.

Equal Opportunity Employer

United Petroleum Equipment is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Selection decisions are based on job-related qualifications and business needs.