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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Lead Excavator Operator AMAT Grand Junction, Colorado, United States Job ID: 521479 United ... Operates machinery to verify repair. * Assist managers on the development and maintenance of s for ...

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Grand Junction, CO

$22 - $25/hr

Operates machinery to verify repair. * Assist managers on the development and maintenance of s for ... Must have at least 1 year experience as lead excavator operator on civil pipeline job * Experience ...

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Telluride, CO · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Lead Excavator Operator AMAT Telluride, Colorado, United States Job ID: 521044 United Companies, is ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Telluride, CO

$23 - $28/hr

Must have 1 year full time experience operating an excavator. * Must have experience digging around ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

Apex Underground

Mainline Operator

Arvada, CO

$25 - $43/hr

Safely operate equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, skid steers, and loaders to ... Load and unload materials such as gravel, sand, and debris using various heavy machinery. Assist ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Centennial, CO · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... of the Excavator * Ability to step out of equipment and assist with groundwork if necessary

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Centennial, CO · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... of the Excavator * Ability to step out of equipment and assist with groundwork if necessary

Landmarc Environmental Systems

Operator

Centennial, CO · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... of the Excavator * Ability to step out of equipment and assist with groundwork if necessary

Gould Construction

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience operating various types of heavy machinery, a strong ... * Assist in site preparation, including grading, excavation, and leveling for construction projects.

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

What are Assistant Excavator Operators?

Assistant Excavator Operators support lead excavator operators by helping to operate heavy machinery used for digging, lifting, and moving earth or other materials on construction sites. Their duties often include preparing and maintaining equipment, assisting with basic machine operation under supervision, ensuring site safety, and performing routine maintenance checks. They play a crucial role in keeping projects on schedule and maintaining a safe work environment while gaining valuable experience for advancement to more skilled operator roles.

What is the difference between Assistant Excavator Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectAssistant Excavator OperatorExcavator Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic equipment operationOSHA safety training, specialized equipment certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, assisting with excavation tasksConstruction sites, operating heavy machinery independently
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment setup, basic operation, site prepDriving, maneuvering, and maintaining excavators for excavation projects

The main difference between an Assistant Excavator Operator and an Excavator Operator lies in their level of responsibility and independence. The assistant typically supports the main operator with basic tasks and requires less specialized certification, while the excavator operator handles the machinery independently, often with more advanced certifications and experience.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

There is consistent demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and land development. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and excavation industries.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for operating a mini excavator typically ranges from $20 to $45, depending on factors such as location, experience, and project complexity. Assistant excavator operators with certification and experience may command higher rates, especially in specialized or demanding environments.

Do I need a CDL to operate excavators?

Assistant excavator operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate excavators, as these machines are usually operated on job sites rather than on public roads. However, if the job requires transporting excavators over public roads, a CDL may be necessary. Certification in equipment operation and safety training are often required for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Excavator Operators on construction sites?

Assistant Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, navigating around other heavy machinery, and maintaining communication with the lead operator and site supervisors. Adapting to varying soil conditions, weather changes, and strict safety protocols can also be demanding. However, these challenges present valuable learning opportunities and help operators build essential problem-solving and teamwork skills that support career growth in heavy equipment operation.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or large construction projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of excavation procedures, safety regulations, basic equipment operation, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery controls, safety systems, and sometimes OSHA or equipment operation certifications are often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help ensure smooth coordination on construction sites. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity during excavation projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado? For Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Colorado are:
Assistant Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Excavator Operator - Westminster

PCL Construction

Westminster, CO • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

PCL Construction rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Excavator Operator - Westminster - Westminster, Colorado (Job Number: 683967)

The future you want is within reach.

At PCL, we build the places where life happens and find camaraderie in the process. We're a community of builders committed to building better communities. That's why we're always looking ahead, and not just to the next project or what's next in our industry.

We're also looking at what's next for you and we can help you build a career you're proud of.

We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operators in the Westminster, CO 80020 . All applications/resumes should be submitted via our Craft Link and upon review, we will set up a phone interview.

How you will contribute to the team:

  • Operate excavators safely and efficiently for civil construction projects.

  • Perform precise excavation for underground utilities, including trenching, backfilling, and grading.

  • Dig to grade and maintain proper line, level, and slope based on project plans.

  • Read and interpret construction plans, stakes, and grade markings.

  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues promptly.

  • Conduct routine maintenance, including greasing, cleaning, and fueling equipment daily.

  • Operate multiple types of heavy equipment as needed (loaders, skid steers, etc.).

  • Work closely with foremen, laborers, and other operators to meet production goals.

  • Maintain a clean and safe work area at all times.

  • Follow all company safety policies and job-site safety procedures.

  • Assist with job-site setup, utility exposure, and general earthwork tasks as needed.

What you will bring to the role:

  • 3+ years of excavator operating experience in civil or underground construction (preferred).

  • Proven experience digging around existing underground utilities.

  • Ability to dig accurately to grade and within tight tolerances.

  • Strong understanding of job-site safety and excavation best practices.

  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and site plans.

  • Comfortable working in various weather and site conditions.

  • Ability to perform physical tasks such as climbing, walking trenches, and long periods of equipment operation.

  • Willingness to follow directions and work as part of a team.

  • This is a safety‑sensitive position. Candidates must be able to comply with the company’s drug‑free workplace policy, including pre‑employment and job‑related testing.

PCL is an innovative, safety-oriented company comprised of people who find passion in their profession and take pride in doing great work every day. Our work powers the infrastructure and utilities that are essential to daily life and our projects are the scene of vacations, careers, education and healing. We are consistently ranked among the best companies to work for because we are committed to supporting and developing our teams.

The salary range for this position is between $28 and $32 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. PCL combines numerous pay and benefit strategies to provide a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package. The total rewards package includes an comprehensive benefits, retirement plan plus matching and career development programs.

The PCL Companies celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants an will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability or veteran status.

Should you require an accommodation during the application process, please contact us at careers@pcl.com with the position and location you are interested in.

Together, we can build success and a better future. Let's get started!

Company: PCL Construction, Inc.

Job Posting: Jun 05, 2026

Closing Date: Sep 03, 2026

Primary Location: United States-Colorado-Westminster

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