Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled Excavator Operator for infrastructure projects across North Dakota.

Applicants must have experience setting RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels. While no live utility work is involved, pipe experience is essential. Safety and situational awareness around laborers and trench crews is non-negotiable.

• This is not an entry-level position — we’re willing to pay above scale for proven talent.
• Excavator Operator (Travel – North Dakota Projects)
• Pay: Base pay starting at North Dakota Prevailing Wage
  • (Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)
• Willing to negotiate higher rate for experienced operators
• Per Diem: $50 per working day
• Schedule: 10–12 hours/day, 5–6 days/week – overtime expected
• Travel Required: 100% (Per diem only; lodging not provided)
• Seasonal Position: Work anticipated through fall, weather permitting

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate excavators for trenching and placing RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels
• Work confidently around laborers and pipe crews with safety in mind
• Perform light equipment maintenance (fluids, greasing, inspections)
• Follow the layout provided for excavation and placement
• Use radios and hand signals to communicate with ground crew
• Follow proper trench safety and crew protocols
• Contribute to a positive team environment and assist where needed

Requirements

• Full-time travel throughout North Dakota
• Valid Driver's License (Class A CDL preferred)
• Excavator experience in utility/pipe/culvert work
• Familiarity with rigging and laser levels
• Physically capable of working long outdoor shifts
• Commitment to safety and collaboration
• Pass pre-employment drug test
• EEO Drug Free Work environment
  • Position is considered Safety Sensitive

Benefits

• Competitive prevailing wage
• 401K/Roth
• Health Insurance
• HSA
• Bonus opportunities

What We Offer:

- Total compensation Base pay starts at $53.05/hr

(Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)

- Negotiable higher rate for highly skilled operators

- $50/day per diem (only for days worked)

- Regular overtime, consistent work

- A solid, skilled crew and company that values operators

How to Apply:

Reply to this ad.

Apply directly at www.gladenconstructioninc.com/careers

or email your resume to Jaron@gladenconstructioninc.com

Company Information

Gladen Construction, Inc. is a third generation family owned company in north central Minnesota, that’s involved in all types of Heavy and Highway Construction.  Our main office and shop is located 14 miles south of Bemidji, MN on US highway 71. 

As a company we have talents and expertise that enable us to be more diversified, such as all types of Excavating, Grading, Large Box Culverts, Piping, Utilities, Reclamation, State, County, Township, Railroad, and Mining work.  Our employees have good ideas and have the work ethic of our parents and grandparents.  Gladen Construction Inc. is proud of the work we do and personnel that motivate our company.  With our fleet of modern equipment, a very competent group of supervisory personnel and experienced operators, Gladen Construction Inc. is confident that we can do any type of earth moving projects in the Highway and Heavy Construction fields.