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Trenching Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Layer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Sets final trench grades by hand digging or using trenching tools. Loads, unloads, identifies and distributes utility materials to the appropriate location, according to project plans and ...

Irrigation Assistant

Lorton, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Lorton, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Lorton, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Chantilly, VA

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Irrigation Assistant

Lorton, VA

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

Ability to assist in trenching & digging * Will learn how to cut, glue lateral line pipe, fitting , cut and assemble drip tubing, fitting * Positive attitude * Willingness to learn * Strong work ...

Showing results 21-40

Trenching information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$40

How much do trenching jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Trenching job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,710 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
Performs physical construction including, but not limited to, digging ditches or trenches, backfilling excavations, shoveling/raking asphalt and compacting and leveling earth to grade specifications using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers and rakes
Communicate with supervisors/foreman. This will include verbal, written or following provided construction plan sets.
Signals equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement and adjustment of machinery, equipment and materials.
Sets final trench grades by hand digging or using trenching tools.
Loads, unloads, identifies and distributes utility materials to the appropriate location, according to project plans and specifications.
Pipelayer must know how to read Cut Sheets.
Positions, aligns and lays out differing pipe routes by communicating with supervisors/foreman. This will include verbal, written or following provided construction plan sets.
Signals equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement and adjustment of machinery, equipment and materials.
Connects water and sewer pipe fittings, to include PVC push on fittings, ductile iron mechanical joint fittings and the required proper restraint mechanisms.
Installs proper bell joint restraint to include the use and understanding of bell harnesses and a joint restraint table.
Sets final trench grades by hand digging or using trenching tools.
Sets trench boxes and performs pipe installations. This could involve the use of mechanical tampering equipment or hand tools.
Loads, unloads, identifies and distributes utility materials to the appropriate location, according to project plans and specifications.
Applicants must have reliable transportation to the work sites and must be willing to work full days
Must be able to travel to different site locations
Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions hot/cold
Must be a safety conscious individual
Frequently lift and carry tools, materials, and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
Stoop, kneel, and crouch
Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds
Work in a ditch and trench box while following safety protocols
Team oriented and works well with others
See and hear well (either naturally or with correction)
DXI Construction Company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, DXI Construction Company complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.