Excavation Crew Leader

Job description:

For more than five decades, homeowners throughout Chicagoland have trusted AA Service Co. for reliable, professional, and friendly home services. Since our founding in 1965, we have been dedicated to providing top-tier heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical solutions. This page tells the story of our journey, our deep roots in the communities we serve-from Northbrook to Evanston-and our unwavering commitment to keeping your home safe and comfortable. Discover the history, values, and people that make AA Service Co. the region’s premier home service provider.

The Sewer/Water Main Team Leader is responsible for leading a 2–3 person crew in residential and small commercial underground utility projects. This role oversees the installation, repair, and replacement of sewer and water mains while ensuring safety, quality workmanship, and efficient job completion. The ideal candidate is experienced in operating small machinery and is ready to provide 24/7 emergency response support when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Lead daily operations 2 to 4 man crew for sewer and water main replacement jobs.

Operate small machinery including mini excavators, skid steers, compact loaders, and similar equipment.

Drive and operate small dump trucks safely and efficiently.

Ensure all work complies with municipal codes, OSHA standards, and industry best practices.

Perform daily job-site safety assessments, including trench safety and shoring inspections.

Implement and enforce proper trenching, shoring, sloping, and shielding procedures.

Maintain strict compliance with OSHA (Excavations) guidelines.

Train and guide crew members on proper safety protocols and equipment usage.

Communicate with customers, inspectors, and internal staff to ensure high-quality service.

Support 24/7 emergency sewer/water main repair response as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum 2–5 years of underground utility experience (sewer/water preferred).

Proven ability to lead a crew on residential utility jobs.

Strong experience operating small excavation machinery.

Valid driver’s license required; CDL a plus.

Ability to read and interpret utility plans and as-builts.

Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.

Excellent communication and leadership qualities.

Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical labor.

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Preferred Skills

Experience with trench safety and shoring systems.

Competence using utility locating equipment.

Knowledge of local municipal codes and inspection processes.

Ability to work efficiently under emergency conditions.________________________________________

Required Qualifications

2–5 years of experience working on underground sewer/water main projects.

Proven leadership of small crews in underground utility environments.

Strong experience operating small excavation machinery.

Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred.

OSHA certifications relevant to excavation and trench safety Excavation Competent Person

Must be educated, trained, and fully up to date on underground shoring, trench safety systems, and excavation safety requirements.

Ability to read utility plans, locate services, and follow municipal specifications.

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Ability to perform physical work outdoors in all weather conditions.