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Underground Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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The Equipment Operator - Underground Electric operates construction equipment to support underground electric utility construction, including excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, and conduit ...

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Experienced Multi-Head Embroidery Machine Operator Full-Time | Modern Production Facility | Fort Worth, TX Join a Growing Technology-Driven Apparel Manufacturer Underground Threads is a rapidly ...

Laborer Telecom Underground

Selma, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Laborer Telecom Underground

Selma, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Laborer Telecom Underground

Austin, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Laborer Telecom Underground

Selma, TX · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Underground Laborer

Leander, TX · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

GridSource is seeking an Underground Laborer in Leander, TX! Pay Rate $17-20 per hour depending on experience As an Underground Laborer you play a crucial role in the installation, maintenance, and ...

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Underground Operator information

See Texas salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do underground operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground operator in Texas is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
Infographic showing various Underground Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,885 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Underground Electric

Venus Construction Company

Mansfield, TX • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

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Job description

Summary/Objective:

The Equipment Operator - Underground Electric operates construction equipment to support underground electric utility construction, including excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, and conduit installation. This position requires underground electric experience and the ability to operate safely around crews, utilities, and active jobsite conditions.

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

·       Operate equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, skid steers, trenchers, compactors, or other equipment used in underground electric construction.

·       Excavate, backfill, grade, and prepare work areas for conduit, duct banks, vaults, handholes, and related underground electric infrastructure.

·       Support bedding, shading, compaction, material handling, and site restoration activities.

·       Identify and protect existing utilities, structures, and jobsite features during excavation and equipment operation.

·       Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.

·       Follow company safety procedures, excavation safety requirements, and instructions from foremen and supervisors.

 

Qualifications

·       Previous equipment operation experience in underground electric construction required.

·       Experience excavating for conduit, duct banks, vaults, handholes, or related electric infrastructure required.

·       Experience supporting wire pulling and primary/secondary underground electric installations preferred.

·       Ability to safely operate equipment around existing utilities, structures, and field crews.

·       Knowledge of trench safety, excavation safety, utility protection, backfill, and compaction practices.

·       Ability to read basic plans, grade stakes, utility markings, and field instructions.

·       Must be dependable, safety-minded, and able to work effectively as part of a crew.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position, and it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of experience, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add to, or remove duties as necessary.

Venus Construction is an equal opportunity employer & participant in e-verify. Venus Construction does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Company Description

Venus Construction is an award-winning Site Utility Contractor that has been proudly serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex since 1967. Venus Construction is now in its third generation of ownership by the McAda family. We offer underground and infrastructure utility installation for commercial, residential development, multi-family, municipal, and TxDOT projects. Trust is our brand!

Venus Construction is a participant in E-Verify and an Equal Opportunity Employer.