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Underground Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience ...

EnterSource

Drill Operator

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Operate directional drilling equipment to install conduit and fiber optic cables underground ... Proven experience operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar)

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience ...

DDC EXCAVATING LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bon Aqua, TN · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Vacation Job Summary Looking to hire a qualified and experienced operator Trackhoe, dozer, mini ... We also do underground utility excavation for electrical and plumbing. We are a family owned ...

DDC EXCAVATING LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bon Aqua, TN · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Vacation Job Summary Looking to hire a qualified and experienced operator Trackhoe, dozer, mini ... We also do underground utility excavation for electrical and plumbing. We are a family owned ...

DDC EXCAVATING LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bon Aqua, TN · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Vacation Job Summary Looking to hire a qualified and experienced operator Trackhoe, dozer, mini ... We also do underground utility excavation for electrical and plumbing. We are a family owned ...

JARBO

Equipment Operator - CDL

Nashville, TN

$25 - $31.50/hr

Perform underground utility inspection, cleaning, and maintenance work in field construction ... Operator * Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required; tanker and air brake ...

JARBO

Equipment Operator - CDL

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $31.50/hr

Perform underground utility inspection, cleaning, and maintenance work in field construction ... Operator * Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required; tanker and air brake ...

JARBO

Equipment Operator - CDL

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $31.50/hr

Perform underground utility inspection, cleaning, and maintenance work in field construction ... Operator * Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required; tanker and air brake ...

MasTec Inc

OHE Operator

Knoxville, TN

Dig around all live utilities, both underground and overhead. * Train, guide, or oversee work of lower graded operators and laborers, when needed. * Comply with proper safety standards/procedures and ...

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Underground Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do underground operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground operator in Tennessee is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground operator?

An Underground Operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery and equipment in underground environments, such as mines or tunnels. Their duties typically include operating drills, loaders, trucks, or other specialized mining equipment to extract minerals or construct underground spaces. Safety is a key aspect of the role, as operators must follow strict protocols to prevent accidents. They also perform routine maintenance on equipment and may assist in monitoring environmental conditions underground. This position requires physical stamina, technical skills, and often certification or specialized training.

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

To thrive as an Underground Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, safety regulations, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant mining certifications. Familiarity with underground machinery, ventilation systems, and safety monitoring equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help operators navigate challenging environments and collaborate effectively. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safe operations, minimizing risks, and ensuring efficient extraction of resources underground.

What are the typical challenges faced by an underground operator, and how can they be managed on the job?

Underground Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing equipment safely in low-visibility conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure smooth operations and to quickly address any hazards or emergencies. Regular training, proper use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to established procedures help operators manage these challenges and maintain a safe, productive work environment.

What is the difference between Underground Operator vs Mine Technician?

AspectUnderground OperatorMine Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsTechnical diploma or certification, specialized training
Work EnvironmentUnderground mining sites, confined spacesMining sites, equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, resource extractionMining companies, equipment service providers

Underground Operators primarily focus on operating machinery and ensuring safety underground, while Mine Technicians handle equipment maintenance and technical support. Both roles are essential in mining operations, often working closely but with different skill sets and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Underground Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Underground Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

Underground Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,882 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

NG Companies

Nashville, TN • On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description:

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience in operating hydrovac trucks and knowledge of safety regulations.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Typical construction hours required, with some weeks being less than 40 hours and other weeks requiring 50+ hours; must be willing to work flexible hours, to include occasional nights and weekends.


Travel: Must be willing to travel for short periods of time as needed 

Work Environment (temperature, noise level, inside/outside):

· Must be able to work in all outdoor elements for extended periods of time

· Must be able to work in all weather conditions and noisy environments

Physical Demands:

· Be able to work extended hours and variable shifts

· Be able to wear all required PPE

· Be able to climb ladders and work from stationary platforms from elevated heights

· Confined Space Entry may be required to accomplish tasks for some clients

· Must be able to repeatedly lift a minimum of 50 pounds

Responsibilities: 

· Drive to assigned job sites to excavate, load, dig, break rocks or debris, dirt, or other materials

· Operate hydrovac equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures

· Operate NG Company equipment in a safe and professional manner

· Properly, clearly, promptly, and legibly complete all local, state, federal, company, and customer paperwork required by law and/or established Company policies.

· Maintain hydrovac truck and equipment to ensure they are in good working condition

· Assist in all cleaning operations to ensure the hydrovac operates at maximum capacity

· Monitor and maintain water levels in the hydrovac tank

· Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures

· Communicate with team members to ensure efficient operations

· Perform pre- and post-trip inspections on the hydrovac truck and equipment

· Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment malfunctions

· Complete job site documentation and paperwork accurately and timely

· Maintain a clean and organized job site

· Cleaning, vacuuming, mobilization, and maintenance of equipment

· Attend training sessions and safety meetings as needed

· Perform other duties as assigned by management

Requirements:

· Class B CDL required with Airbrake and Tanker Endorsement

· Pass a pre-employment physical

· Pass a criminal background check and safety performance verification

· Pass a pre-employment drug screen

Competency (KSAs):

· Able to lead and direct a team to perform duties in a safe and timely manner

· Must be able to drive and operate all Hydrovac functions

· Knowledge of and comply with DOT Regulations

· Ability to troubleshoot and, as needed, perform minor repairs to equipment

· Ability to read and interpret maps, instructions, and work orders

· Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

· Ability to work in a team environment

· Must possess and exhibit a strong safety acumen

 
Preferred Education & Experience:

· Underground utility and/or construction experience

· 12 months of Heavy Equipment Operation experience

· Previous hydrovac, trucking, vacuum truck or other related industrial experience

Benefits:

· Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance 

· Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)

· 401(k) matching 

· PTO 

· Paid Holidays

· Life and AD&D Insurance and Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance 

·Employee Assistance Program 


This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. In compliance with federal and state equal opportunity employment laws, NG is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate regarding race, color, national origin, religion, disability, age, or gender.