Excavation Apprentice

Excavation ApprenticeWe are seeking an Excavation Apprentice to support our residential sewer, water service, and underground utility replacement operations at MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Columbia, MO. This position works directly alongside our Lead Excavation Operator, performing excavation, site preparation, equipment support, utility locating support, and restoration activities. This is a long-term career opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating equipment, and learning a specialized trade. Our team performs residential sewer lateral replacements, water service replacements, spot repairs, and trenchless pipelining projects that help homeowners protect and restore critical underground infrastructure. Previous excavation experience is helpful but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate with construction experience, mechanical aptitude, and a strong work ethic. Compensation: $18-$23/hour, depending on experience. Overtime opportunities available. Paid training. Career advancement opportunities.Duties/Responsibilities:Assist with residential sewer lateral replacements and repairsAssist with water service replacementsAssist with trenchless liner installationsPrepare and maintain job sitesLoad, unload, and transport materials and equipmentAssist with excavation and trench safety operationsOperate excavators and other equipment as trainedPull equipment trailers and assist with equipment transportPerform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenanceAssist with jobsite cleanup and restorationFollow company safety policies and proceduresWork closely with the Lead Excavation Operator to learn excavation operations and underground utility workRequirements/Qualifications:Willingness to learn specialized skills related to excavation, underground utilities, and trenchless pipe rehabilitationMechanical aptitude and ability to use hand and power toolsAbility to lift and move heavy materials and work outdoors in varying weather conditionsCurrent driver's license with good driving recordReliable transportation and attendancePositive attitude and willingness to learnPreferred Skills (Not Required):Trailer towing experienceExcavator experienceLandscaping, concrete, utility, plumbing, septic, grading, or public works experienceConstruction experienceSkid steer experienceExperience in sewer drain cleaning and hydro-jettingWho This Position Is Perfect For:Has worked in landscaping, concrete, utilities, plumbing, septic, grading, public works, or general constructionEnjoys working outdoors and seeing tangible results from their workWants to learn equipment operation and specialized construction skillsTakes pride in quality workmanship and working safelyIs looking for a long-term career rather than just another jobWants to grow with a company that invests in training and developmentPhysical Demands / Working Conditions:Work outdoors in all seasonsLift and/or move 50 lbs. or moreWork around excavation equipment and active construction sitesEnter trenches and confined work areas when safe and permittedPerform physically demanding labor throughout the workdayThe work environment varies depending on the season and scope of work. Employees must be adaptable to changing priorities and maintain effective communication with customers, vendors, and team members.Safety Considerations: All employees of MasterTech must consider safety as their primary responsibility. General knowledge of safe working practices and applicable federal/state OSHA requirements is required.Ready to build a long-term career in a specialized trade with a company that truly values you? Apply today and let's build something great together. Career Growth: This position is designed for individuals interested in building a long-term career in excavation and underground utilities. You will work directly alongside an experienced Lead Excavation Operator while learning specialized underground utility construction, excavation safety, equipment operation, sewer service replacement, water service replacement, and trenchless rehabilitation techniques. As skills develop, qualified employees may have opportunities to learn equipment operation and advance into Equipment Operator and Lead Operator roles over time. MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.