Underground Utilities Installation Laborer

Maxwell Construction is seeking a dependable Underground Utilities Installation Laborer to join our underground utility installation crew. This is a hands-on, entry-level opportunity to learn the pipe laying trade while supporting the safe installation of water mains, sanitary sewer, storm drainage, and related underground infrastructure throughout the Eastern Iowa Corridor. Working alongside experienced pipe layers, operators, and foremen, the Underground Utilities Installation Laborer supports trench-top operations, material handling, rigging, equipment coordination, and pipe installation. We value team members who communicate clearly, take safety seriously, and desire to develop the skills needed to advance into a skilled Pipe Layer position. Primary Responsibilities The Underground Utilities Installation Laborer supports pipe installation crews from the trench-top work area and assists with hands-on construction tasks under the direction of experienced crew members. Key duties include: - Stage, inspect, organize, and prepare pipe, fittings, valves, hydrants, bedding material, tools, and other installation supplies. - Assist with safe rigging and handling of pipe and materials, including selecting and inspecting approved slings, hooks, shackles, and lifting accessories within training and authorization. - Coordinate with equipment operators using agreed hand signals or radio communication; remain clear of suspended loads and equipment swing areas. - Support excavator and loader operations through ground-person assistance, spotting, material staging, and equipment setup as assigned. - Operate, skid steers, loaders, and other jobsite equipment only after training and authorization. - Assist experienced pipe layers with pipe preparation, joint assembly, fittings, alignment, bedding, backfill, and restoration work. - Help maintain trench-edge housekeeping, access routes, material stockpiles, and safe separation from excavation hazards. - Participate in daily pre-task planning, job hazard assessments, equipment inspections, and toolbox talks; promptly report unsafe conditions. - Assist with loading, unloading, securing, and transporting tools and materials as authorized. - Communicate material needs, jobsite progress, and quality concerns to the foreman and crew. Essential Work Activities - Supporting underground pipe installation from the trench-top area. - Performing safe rigging, signaling, lifting preparation, and material handling in coordination with operators. - Learning basic measurements, pipe components, grade concepts, and installation methods from experienced crew members. - Maintaining awareness of excavation edges, protective systems, mobile equipment, and changing jobsite conditions. Work Environment This position works primarily outdoors on active underground construction sites, with uneven ground, excavations, moving equipment, noise, dust, and varying weather. Employees must follow established excavation safety procedures and enter trenches only when authorized and appropriate protective measures are in place. Required PPE includes company-specified head, eye, hand, foot, and high-visibility protection, plus hearing or respiratory protection when required. Minimum Qualifications []{style="font-size: 7pt; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: no "}