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Trencher Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This position is adept at operating different kinds of heavy machinery such as trenchers and soil ... Operate excavation equipment (walk behind trencher and soil compactor) * Diagnose shorts, open ...

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Trencher Operator information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do trencher operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for trencher operator in California is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trencher operator?

A Trencher Operator is responsible for using trenching equipment to dig trenches for utilities, drainage systems, or other construction projects. They operate and maintain trenching machines, ensuring precise depth and width according to project specifications. Operators must follow safety protocols, inspect equipment for maintenance needs, and work closely with site supervisors. This role requires mechanical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of soil conditions. Trencher Operators often work in construction, telecommunications, and utility industries.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a trencher operator?

As a Trencher Operator, your daily tasks include inspecting and maintaining the trencher, assessing job sites for hazards, and operating the equipment to dig precise trenches according to project specifications. You will often collaborate with crew members, site supervisors, and utility locators to ensure accurate placement and minimize risk to existing underground utilities. Additional duties can involve adhering to strict safety protocols, documenting progress, and assisting with minor repairs or adjustments to the machinery. This hands-on role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, are safety-conscious, and take pride in precise work.

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

To thrive as a Trencher Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, a solid understanding of safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with trenching equipment, knowledge of underground utility marking systems, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, precise trenching operations and help prevent costly errors or workplace accidents.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trencher Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Trencher Operator jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Trencher Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,664 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Irrigation Tech

BrightView Landscapes

American Canyon, CA

$26 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


BrightView Landscapes rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 37 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Description

The Best Teams are Created and Maintained Here.

Job Summary

  • The Irrigation Technician installs and maintains the irrigation systems that keep crops, parks, gardens, and various green spaces watered. This position is adept at operating different kinds of heavy machinery such as trenchers and soil compactors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conduct detailed irrigation inspections documenting repairs (upgrades included later)
  • Clean decorative water features
  • Excavate and trench using shovels and other excavation hand tools.
  • Backfill and compact in clean manner to minimize spoils, signs of excavation, and settling.
  • Maintain work areas and jobsite in clean, safe, and hazard free condition at all times.
  • Maintain vehicle, tools, and equipment in clean, organized and well stocked condition.
  • Train and mentor personnel in lower positions on technical irrigation topics
  • Properly adjust all sprinkler types and nozzles and replace all types of sprinklers including appropriate use of check valves and PRS.
  • Select and install appropriate conventional and HE nozzles (including knowing precipitation rates)
  • Properly solvent cement weld PVC (ASME B31.1 Bonding Procedures)
  • Repair lateral lines under all conditions.
  • Repair PVC and ductile iron mainlines under all conditions up to 6 inches.
  • Properly replace all types of irrigation valves
  • Clean and rebuild valves under special customer request.
  • Conduct annual seasonal start up inspections and drip conversions.
  • Conduct winterizations (seasonal markets)
  • Install controllers (both conventional and smart)
  • Program conventional controllers.
  • Install rain sensors, soil moisture sensors and flow meters and master valves (including Hydrometers)
  • Complete water saving upgrades.
  • Operate excavation equipment (walk behind trencher and soil compactor)
  • Diagnose shorts, open circuits, partial shorts using a multi-meter.
  • Utilize a station master to activate and diagnose valves and tone wires.
  • Trace underground wires and locate ground faults using a ground fault locator.
  • Troubleshoot, identify, and repair conventional electrical irrigation problems.
  • Record materials and labor used to complete each job.
  • Wear proper PPE and follow all safety rules.

Education and Experience:

  • Minimum 1-5 years prior landscape irrigation experience required.
  • Knowledge of communication cable and radio communication/hardware experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of mechanical fittings and mechanical gate valves.
  • Understanding of irrigation controller hardware.
  • Two wire system experiences.
  • Knowledge of brass valve rebuild preferred.
  • Resourceful, learns quickly and has a desire for knowledge.
  • Self-starter.
  • Detail oriented.
  • TCEQ Irrigator's Tech license.
  • Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
  • Training is offered and pay is negotiable.

Physical Demands/Requirements:

  • Able to perform medium work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/up to 50 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles)
  • Possess strong stamina and have the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
  • Able to safely operate landscaping equipment (e.g., mowers, trimmers, blowers, edgers).
  • Able to bend, stoop, kneel, twist, stand, walk continuously throughout the day and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
  • Able to perform manual labor using a variety of hand tools (e.g. shovels, rakes)
  • You are able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., safety shoes, high-visibility clothing, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, head protection)
  • Landscapers who will be operating a BrightView fleet vehicle are required to have a valid driver’s license and meet company standards as it relates motor vehicle performance identified on a state issued motor vehicle record check.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or holidays if needed.
  • Ability to maintain, in your possession at all times, required medications to address any known allergic reactions should they occur.

Work Environment:

  • Ability to work outdoors/indoors in moderate to extreme weather conditions (e.g., temperatures more than 100°F, temperatures below 32°F, various levels of humidity)
  • Ability to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
  • Work outdoors near automotive traffic, bodies of water, fumes, dust, mechanical and/or electrical hazards.
  • Ability to work in environments where extended periods of loud noise are present.
  • Ability to work in environments where exposure to allergens such as pollen and rag weed, insects such as bees and spiders and reptiles such as lizards and snakes. 
BrightView Landscapes, LLC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
This job description is subject to change at any time.

Compensation Pay Range:

$26-32

BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team members. Benefits offerings for full-time team members include medical, dental, and vision insurance, ancillary and voluntary products, a 401k savings plan with employer contributions, and 6 to 9 company paid holidays per year. Employees may also be eligible to receive paid time off for vacation and/or sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and/or potential variable pay opportunities based on position and performance. A detailed benefits package will be provided during the interview process.

It’s Not Just a Team. It’s One BrightView.


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