ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MGE Underground, Inc.

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA · On-site

$51 - $79/hr

... help maximize productivity and efficiency. You will be working primarily with the installation of ... Underground is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected ...

MGE Underground, Inc.

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA · On-site

... help maximize productivity and efficiency. You will be working primarily with the installation of ... Underground is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected ...

Quanta Services

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

FiberTel, LLC

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

FiberTel, LLC

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA

$28 - $36/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnderground Helper JobsUnderground Helper Jobs in California

Underground Helper information

How to become an underground helper?

To become an underground helper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must undergo safety training related to underground work environments. Physical fitness, the ability to work in confined spaces, and familiarity with tools and safety protocols are important; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA training.

What is the difference between Underground Helper vs Miner?

AspectUnderground HelperMiner
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on safety protocolsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentUnderground mining sites, assisting with tasksUnderground mining operations, extracting minerals or ores
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction, and excavation projectsMining companies, mineral extraction industries

Underground Helpers assist miners by performing support tasks such as transporting materials and maintaining safety, while miners are responsible for extracting minerals directly. Both roles require safety training and work in underground environments, but miners typically have more specialized skills and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by an underground helper, and how can they be managed effectively?

Underground Helpers often work in confined and sometimes hazardous environments, which can present physical and safety challenges. Adapting to changing site conditions, maintaining good communication with the team, and strictly following safety protocols are essential for success. It's important to stay alert, use personal protective equipment, and be proactive in identifying and reporting potential hazards. Building strong teamwork skills also helps create a safer and more efficient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground helper?

To thrive as an Underground Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and an understanding of safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as pneumatic drills, hoists, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient operations and to minimize risks in hazardous underground environments.

What is an underground helper?

Underground Helpers are workers who assist with various tasks in underground environments such as mines, tunnels, or utility conduits. Their responsibilities typically include supporting skilled workers, transporting materials, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They play a crucial role in the smooth operation and safety of underground projects by handling manual labor, site preparation, and equipment setup. The role may also involve monitoring ventilation, removing debris, and assisting in emergency situations. Underground Helpers often work under challenging conditions and must adhere to strict safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Underground jobs in California? The most popular types of Underground jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Underground Helper jobs? Cities in California with the most Underground Helper job openings:
Underground Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Helper job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Underground Foreman

MGE Underground, Inc.

San Jose, CA • On-site

$51 - $79/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

About MGE
MGE Underground is a growing utility infrastructure contractor serving utility companies from our Paso Robles headquarters and regional hubs throughout California. Our mission is to support our clients' expanding utility and infrastructure requirements by positioning MGE as the leading provider of innovative construction solutions at the best value.
Our Core Values
Safety | Continuous Development | Respect | Integrity | Performance | Trust | Fun
How You Can Make an Impact
As the Underground Foreman, you are responsible for recognizing, assessing and controlling potentially hazardous situations in addition to maintaining the safety of the crews by giving direction regarding procedures, road safety, trench safety, and general oversight to help maximize productivity and efficiency. You will be working primarily with the installation of dry utilities, power, conduit, substructures, and concrete.
How You Will Contribute
  • Assist the crew with in-field physical tasks.
  • Supervise all operations and perform daily field inspections to ensure that all construction operations are completed in accordance with customer and industry specifications.
  • Provide on-the-job training for employees working under your direction on construction practices and methods to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
  • Assign daily production to in-house and subcontract laborers and crews.
  • Requisition, assign, and track materials needed for the daily operations.
  • Resolve complaints with property owners in areas where our personnel are working.
  • Review daily production reports, material usage sheets, keep track of work hours, complete and maintain accurate "as-build maps" for areas built.
  • Coordinate daily tasks according to priorities and plans, adjusting as necessary due to weather, supply delivery, and personnel.
  • Track, input, and submit employee/equipment hours, productions
  • Coordinate with Supervisor for equipment needs.
  • Complete Daily field reports and job task analysis forms.
  • Conduct Daily Safety meetings and provide feedback to management.
  • Lead weekly safety meetings with crew and communicate any company or customer cascading messages.
  • Report accidents, incidents, and injuries immediately.
  • Mentor, manage, and train employees.
  • Report project status to supervisors and officials regularly.
  • Supervise the layout, assembly, and installation of duct and vault systems.
  • Utilize heavy equipment and trucking to excavate, install, and complete projects.
  • Operate backhoes, loaders, excavators, asphalt rollers, and other heavy equipment with both CAT and DEERE controls.
  • Responsible for ensuring a safe work environment and complying with state, federal, OSHA, and VCI safety standards.

What You Bring to the Table
  • Knowledge of 4216 regulations and 811 requirements
  • Understanding when and how to use shoring
  • Excavation activities around existing utilities.
  • Willingness to work shifts as assigned, including daily overtime when necessary.
  • Hard working, strong work ethic, and growth oriented.
  • Ability to delegate responsibilities and individual projects to the crew and contractors.
  • Strong organization, people, and time management skills.
  • Able to lead jobs and crews safely and timely.
  • Detail-oriented - quality and precision focused.
  • Team Oriented - cooperative and collaborative.
  • Preferred: Knowledge of HCSS/Heavy Job software.
  • Preferred: Knowledge of asphalt and concrete restoration.
Your Prior Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 years overseeing the jobsite operations of a 5+ person crew.
  • Horizontal directional drilling experience is a plus.
  • Required: Valid Class C Driver's License, clean driving record.
  • Desired: Class A Driver's License; tankers endorsement is a plus.
Our Competitive Package
Pay: $51 to $79 per hour
In addition to the hourly rate, this role will receive $50 - $100 per day for subsistence.
This pay range is our competitive compensation at the time of this job posting. Your pay will be determined based on experience, education, skills, and applicable knowledge.
Above and Beyond Benefits
We believe that our employees deserve to be treated well, which is why we offer competitive pay and benefits. Some of the benefits we offer:
  • Competitive medical, dental, hearing, and vision plans
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefits and enhanced Term Life Insurance program
  • 9 company holidays (unpaid)
  • Weekly Pay
  • Annual Increases
Additional Information
Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site
Affirmative Action/EEO
MGE Underground is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on any protected characteristics.
Pre-Employment
Successful applicants must pass a drug screen and background check.
Physical Requirements*
  • Extended standing, walking, sitting, bending, climbing.
  • Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
  • Sitting for long periods of time in moving, vibrating, jerking, or stationery machinery.
  • Repetitive motion from operating hand and foot controls of the equipment.
  • Working in loud or noisy environments.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions.
  • Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry loads (not greater than 50 pounds), individually at a time.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision.
  • Employee is required to drive a motor vehicle and travel to various locations.
  • Must be able to access and navigate job sites and construction areas.
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions.
*Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
Other Duties
Your duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice, based on the company's needs.

Apply