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Trenching Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Network Connex

Equipment Operator - Trenching

Manassas, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

The Equipment Operator - Trenching is responsible for operating trenching and excavation equipment to install underground utilities including fiber optic cable, conduit, and other telecom ...

Ferguson Trenching Company

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Controller - Construction

Odenton, MD · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

About Us For over 60 years, Ferguson Trenching Co., Inc. has built more than underground infrastructure; we've built a reputation for quality, safety, and excellence. Since 1966, we've served and ...

New

Ferguson Trenching Company

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Controller - Construction

Odenton, MD · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

About Us For over 60 years, Ferguson Trenching Co., Inc. has built more than underground infrastructure; we've built a reputation for quality, safety, and excellence. Since 1966, we've served and ...

New

Sunbelt Rentals

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

As a key member of our Trenching team, you will act as a field equipment operator. You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring ...

Sunbelt Rentals

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

As a key member of our Trenching team, you will act as a field equipment operator. You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring ...

Sunbelt Rentals

Driver - CDL B

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

Join Our Team! Sunbelt Rentals strives to be the customer's first choice in the equipment rental industry. From pumps to scaffolding to general construction tools, we aim to be the only call needed ...

Sunbelt Rentals, Inc.

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

As a key member of our Trenching team, you will act as a field equipment operator. You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring ...

Sunbelt Rentals

CDL Driver - Heavy Haul

Sterling, VA · On-site

$27.65 - $41.48/hr

As a key member of our Trenching team, you will act as a field equipment operator. You will be responsible for the safe transport, rigging, and precise placement of complex trenching and shoring ...

C&I Staffing

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating excavators for trenching duck banks. Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour Responsibilities * Operate heavy equipment such as excavators for trenching.

Urgent

C&I Staffing

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating excavators for trenching duck banks. Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour Responsibilities * Operate heavy equipment such as excavators for trenching.

Urgent

C&I Staffing

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Pipelayer Helper

Dulles, VA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

This role involves bending standing, digging, gluing, measuring accurately, trenching, and adhering strictly to safety protocols to support this construction project. Responsibilities * Excavate ...

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Trenching information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$40

How much do trenching jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for trenching in Washington is $27.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $29.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trenching?

A trenching job involves excavating narrow, deep ditches in the ground, typically for laying utilities such as pipes, cables, or drainage systems. Trenching requires specialized equipment like trenchers or excavators to dig safely and efficiently. Workers must follow safety regulations to prevent cave-ins, equipment accidents, and other hazards. It is commonly used in construction, utility installation, and landscaping projects. Proper planning and protective measures, such as trench shoring or sloping, are crucial for worker safety.

What are some common challenges faced in trenching?

One of the main challenges in a Trenching role is dealing with varying soil conditions and unexpected underground obstacles, which can require rapid problem-solving and adaptation on the job. Workers also need to maintain strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent cave-ins and other hazards. Communication and collaboration with utility crews, supervisors, and other construction specialists are critical for safely completing projects. Additionally, working outdoors in changing weather conditions can be demanding, but proper training and teamwork help make these challenges manageable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in trenching?

To thrive in Trenching, you need strong physical stamina, knowledge of site safety practices, and experience operating excavation equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with trenching machines, utility locators, and compliance with OSHA safety standards is commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help ensure job site safety and efficiency. These skills are essential because trenching work involves physical demands, technical precision, and close coordination with crew members to prevent accidents and complete projects successfully.

What are popular job titles related to Trenching jobs in Washington?

For Trenching jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Trenching jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Trenching jobs in Washington are:

Trenching jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trenching job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,710 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Trenching

Network Connex

Manassas, VA • On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the most advanced technological environments around the world sounds like a dream job, Network Connex might be the right fit for you! You’ll be part of a team working together to solve customer problems every day, with compensation and benefits that are an investment in your career, financial future, and overall well-being.

Position Summary:

The Equipment Operator - Trenching is responsible for operating trenching and excavation equipment to install underground utilities including fiber optic cable, conduit, and other telecom infrastructure. This role requires precision, safety awareness, and adherence to local, state, and federal regulations.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate trenchers, excavators, backhoes, and other heavy equipment for underground utility installation.
  • Perform pre-operational checks and routine maintenance on equipment.
  • Read and interpret utility locates, site plans, and construction drawings.
  • Safely expose existing utilities and avoid utility strikes.
  • Maintain accurate daily logs of work performed and equipment usage.
  • Follow all safety protocols including use of PPE and traffic control measures.
  • Communicate effectively with crew members, supervisors, and inspectors.
  • Assist with hand digging, potholing, and other manual labor as needed.
  • Ensure trench depth, width, and alignment meet project specifications.
  • Restore job site to original or improved condition upon completion.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience operating trenching or excavation equipment in utility or telecom environments.
  • Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred).
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction practices and safety standards.
  • Ability to read and understand utility locates and construction drawings.
  • Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Prolonged standing, walking, bending, and operating equipment.
  • Exposure to noise, dust, and heavy machinery.

In addition to competitive base pay, Network Connex offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health and you can begin participating in our programs on the first of the month following your start date.

Join our Vanguard 401(k) plan, with immediate vesting and a generous 5% company match to help you build long-term financial security. Our team also enjoys 10 paid company holidays, a generous PTO accrual schedule, and access to discounts on useful products and services.

EEOC-Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran 

Network Connex believes all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants because of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, domestic partnership status, ancestry, religion, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, disability, veteran status, age or any other protected group status. Upon acceptance of an offer, all candidates will be required to pass a background check and drug screening.