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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Hydrovac Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate ... • Assist in all cleaning operations to ensure the hydrovac operates at maximum capacity • ...

CDL Operator

Dacono, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Operation of heavy equipment including excavators, track hoes, backhoes, front end loaders and ... Prepare pre-trip equipment prior to mobilizing to job site * Assist in securing work site ...

Be Seen First

Operate dozers, excavators, loaders, compactors, and other heavy equipment to restore disturbed ... Implement erosion control measures (e.g., wattles, berms, riprap, seeding preparation). * Assist in ...

Be Seen First

Operate dozers, excavators, loaders, compactors, and other heavy equipment to restore disturbed ... Implement erosion control measures (e.g., wattles, berms, riprap, seeding preparation). * Assist in ...

Equipment Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$32 - $48/hr

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ...

Tractor Backhoe Operator

Fort Lupton, CO · On-site

$51K - $67K/yr

Description Nelson Pipeline is seeking a highly motivated Tractor Backhoe Operator who will be ... Able to recognize changing ground conditions * Assist in restoring the excavation site back to ...

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ...

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ...

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ...

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ...

Equipment Operator III

Divide, CO · On-site

$32.64 - $34.28/hr

Manages projects also assist with administrative duties such as time keeping, work logs and ... Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator ...

Equipment Operator III

Divide, CO · On-site

$32.64 - $34.28/hr

Manages projects also assist with administrative duties such as time keeping, work logs and ... Applicable safety practices and operating procedures for all county equipment (grader, excavator ...

CDL Operator

Dacono, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Operation of heavy equipment including excavators, track hoes, backhoes, front end loaders and ... Prepare pre-trip equipment prior to mobilizing to job site * Assist in securing work site ...

CDL Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Operation of heavy equipment including excavators, track hoes, backhoes, front end loaders and ... Prepare pre-trip equipment prior to mobilizing to job site * Assist in securing work site ...

... * Assist with laying conduit for fiberoptic cable; * Work around heavy equipment (excavators, hydrovacs, boring machines, etc.) and perform duties to support the Heavy Equipment Operators; * Take ...

CDL Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Operation of heavy equipment including excavators, track hoes, backhoes, front end loaders and ... Prepare pre-trip equipment prior to mobilizing to job site * Assist in securing work site ...

CDL Operator

Dacono, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Operation of heavy equipment including excavators, track hoes, backhoes, front end loaders and ... Prepare pre-trip equipment prior to mobilizing to job site * Assist in securing work site ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Excavator Operator information

What is an assistant excavator operator?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant excavator operator?

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 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 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.

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 cities in Colorado are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Hydrovac Operator

NG Companies

Longmont, CO • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience in operating hydrovac trucks and knowledge of safety regulations.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Typical construction hours required, with some weeks being less than 40 hours and other weeks requiring 50+ hours; must be willing to work flexible hours, to include occasional nights and weekends.
Travel: Must be willing to travel for short periods of time as needed
Work Environment (temperature, noise level, inside/outside):
• Must be able to work in all outdoor elements for extended periods of time
• Must be able to work in all weather conditions and noisy environments
Physical Demands:
• Be able to work extended hours and variable shifts
• Be able to wear all required PPE
• Be able to climb ladders and work from stationary platforms from elevated heights
• Confined Space Entry may be required to accomplish tasks for some clients
• Must be able to repeatedly lift a minimum of 50 pounds
Responsibilities:
• Drive to assigned job sites to excavate, load, dig, break rocks or debris, dirt, or other materials
• Operate hydrovac equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures
• Operate NG Company equipment in a safe and professional manner
• Properly, clearly, promptly, and legibly complete all local, state, federal, company, and customer paperwork required by law and/or established Company policies.
• Maintain hydrovac truck and equipment to ensure they are in good working condition
• Assist in all cleaning operations to ensure the hydrovac operates at maximum capacity
• Monitor and maintain water levels in the hydrovac tank
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures
• Communicate with team members to ensure efficient operations
• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections on the hydrovac truck and equipment
• Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment malfunctions
• Complete job site documentation and paperwork accurately and timely
• Maintain a clean and organized job site
• Cleaning, vacuuming, mobilization, and maintenance of equipment
• Attend training sessions and safety meetings as needed
• Perform other duties as assigned by management
Requirements
• Class B CDL required with Airbrake and Tanker Endorsement
• Pass a pre-employment physical
• Pass a criminal background check and safety performance verification
• Pass a pre-employment drug screen
Competency (KSAs):
• Able to lead and direct a team to perform duties in a safe and timely manner
• Must be able to drive and operate all Hydrovac functions
• Knowledge of and comply with DOT Regulations
• Ability to troubleshoot and, as needed, perform minor repairs to equipment
• Ability to read and interpret maps, instructions, and work orders
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Must possess and exhibit a strong safety acumen
Preferred Education & Experience:
• Underground utility and/or construction experience
• 12 months of Heavy Equipment Operation experience
• Previous hydrovac, trucking, vacuum truck or other related industrial experience
Benefits:
• Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• 401(k) matching
• PTO
• Paid Holidays
• Life and AD&D Insurance and Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. In compliance with federal and state equal opportunity employment laws, NG is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate regarding race, color, national origin, religion, disability, age, or gender.
Salary Description
$30.00 - $36.00