Residential Excavator Operator/Laborer – Eastern Connecticut

Location: Eastern Connecticut (Old Lyme, Waterford, East Lyme, Salem, Mystic, North Stonington, Canterbury, North Franklin, East Hampton, Colchester, and surrounding areas)
Job Type: Full-Time

Summary

Looking for excavation jobs in Eastern Connecticut? Caulkins Homes is hiring a Residential Excavator Operator/Laborer to join our construction team. If you have experience running excavation equipment and want a long-term career in custom home building, we want to hear from you!

In this role, you’ll operate heavy machinery to prepare homebuilding sites, dig foundations and trenches, and assist with grading and drainage. You’ll work directly with the site supervisor and our construction crews to ensure every project is safe, precise, and completed on schedule. Strong skills in basic math and English are required to follow plans and instructions accurately.

Who We Are

Caulkins Homes is not just part of the residential construction industry — we’ve helped shape it.

Led by Craig D. Caulkins, who has built an impressive 37-year career as a visionary custom home designer and builder, Caulkins Homes is known for redefining what it means to create a truly custom home. Craig’s leadership has been marked by purpose, innovation, and the ability to pivot with changing times, keeping our company at the forefront of residential design and construction.

We are an all-in-one, under-one-roof, solutions-based company — serving our customers from land acquisition and real estate needs to custom home design, project management, and building all the way to the final doorknob. With a reputation for excellence, innovation, and client-focused service, Caulkins Homes continues to set the standard for custom homebuilding in Eastern Connecticut.

At Caulkins Homes, building isn’t just a job — it’s a career.  Come join us!

Responsibilities

  • Site Preparation

    • Excavate foundations, footings, and trenches for residential new construction.

    • Grade sites with precision and prepare areas for drainage and utility installation.

    • Clear and prepare homebuilding sites, ensuring safety and efficiency.

  • Equipment Operation & Maintenance

    • Operate heavy equipment, including excavators, skid steers, and backhoes.

    • Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance to keep equipment running smoothly.

    • Report and resolve mechanical or safety issues immediately.

  • Technical Work

    • Read and interpret site plans and residential foundation drawings.

    • Use level lasers and measurement tools to achieve accurate grading and elevations.

    • Install drainage piping and assist with underground utility work.

  • Safety & Compliance

    • Follow OSHA, company, and jobsite safety procedures at all times.

    • Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment.

    • Use PPE properly and help promote a culture of safety on-site.

  • Team Collaboration

    • Work closely with site supervisors, project managers, and trades.

    • Support construction crews with general labor tasks when needed.

    • Communicate effectively to anticipate needs and avoid project delays.

  • Additional Duties

    • Perform trench shoring, backfilling, and material handling as required.

    • Help ensure project schedules are met through efficient work practices.

    • Take on other duties as assigned to contribute to project success.

Requirements & Experience

  • Hands-on residential excavation experience (foundations, footings, trenching, grading)

  • Ability to read and interpret residential site and foundation plans

  • Proficiency with level laser equipment

  • Experience installing drainage piping and underground utilities

  • OSHA 10 Certification (required)

  • Strong basic math and communication skills

  • Safety-first mindset and ability to work collaboratively on a team

👉 How to Apply
If you’re looking for a rewarding excavation career in Eastern Connecticut and want to join an experienced and respected custom home builder, apply today!

Submit your resume and contact information via email to Heather@CaulkinsHomes.com to apply.  No phone calls please.

Join Caulkins Homes and be part of building custom homes that make a lasting impact on families and communities across Eastern Connecticut.