Excavation Apprentice – Sewer & Water Line Construction | Columbia, MO

Are you looking to build a long-term career in the skilled trades? MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is looking for a dependable Excavation Apprentice to join our team and learn the skills needed to grow into an Equipment Operator and Lead Operator.

We’re a family-owned company that values our people, provides hands-on training, and believes in giving motivated employees a real opportunity to build a career. If you have mechanical aptitude, a strong work ethic, and are ready to learn, we’d love to hear from you.

What We Offer

• $18–$23/hour, depending on experience

• Overtime opportunities available

• Paid training and hands-on skills development

• Health, dental & vision insurance

• Paid time off, including vacation days and 8 paid holidays

• 401(k) with company match

• Career advancement opportunities

• Employee discounts on plumbing and HVAC services

• Team events, snacks, treats & other employee perks

• A supportive, respectful team environment where your skills are valued

What You’ll Do

As an Excavation Apprentice, you’ll work directly alongside an experienced Lead Excavation Operator while learning residential sewer, water service, and underground utility work.

• Assist with residential sewer lateral replacements and repairs

• Assist with water service replacements

• Assist with trenchless liner installations

• Prepare and maintain job sites

• Load, unload, and transport materials and equipment

• Assist with excavation and trench safety operations

• Operate excavators and other equipment as trained

• Pull equipment trailers and assist with equipment transport

• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic equipment maintenance

• Assist with jobsite cleanup and restoration

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures

• Learn excavation operations, underground utility work, and specialized trade skills from experienced team members

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience in construction, landscaping, concrete, utilities, plumbing, septic, grading, public works, or general labor is preferred

• Excavation, excavator, skid steer, or trailer towing experience is a plus

• Sewer drain cleaning or hydro-jetting experience is a plus

• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hand and power tools

• Positive attitude, dependable work ethic, and willingness to learn

• Comfortable working outdoors and performing physically demanding work in varying weather conditions

• Ability to lift and move 50+ lbs.

• Current driver’s license with a good driving record

• Reliable transportation and attendance

• Takes pride in quality workmanship and working safely

Build Your Career With MasterTech

MasterTech provides hands-on training in excavation, underground utilities, equipment operation, sewer and water service replacement, and trenchless rehabilitation. You’ll work alongside an experienced Lead Excavation Operator while building specialized skills and gaining valuable field experience.

As your skills develop, there are opportunities to advance into Equipment Operator and Lead Operator roles over time.

If you have hands-on experience, enjoy working outdoors, and are looking for an opportunity to learn a specialized trade and build a long-term career, apply today!

All offers are contingent upon successfully completing a background check and drug screening.

MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is an equal opportunity employer.