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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

TAPANI Inc

Mainline Excavator Operator

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$29.03 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy ... Operation of the heavy equipment * Assist with all tasks to ensure a quality project by Tapani Inc

TAPANI, Inc.

Mainline Excavator Operator

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$29.04 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy ... Operation of the heavy equipment * Assist with all tasks to ensure a quality project by Tapani Inc

City of The Dalles

Equipment Operator

The Dalles, OR · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... excavators, service pickups, paint striping equipment, snow plows and sanders, street sweepers ... Ability to assist in emergency response activities such as flooding, severe weather, or natural ...

City of The Dalles

Equipment Operator

The Dalles, OR · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... excavators, service pickups, paint striping equipment, snow plows and sanders, street sweepers ... Ability to assist in emergency response activities such as flooding, severe weather, or natural ...

Congruex

Bore Operator

Monmouth, OR · On-site

The Operator will operate heavy machinery for construction or excavation projects in a safe manner ... assist in other activities such as but not limited to o Placement of conduit in open trenches o ...

NW Natural

Water Operator

Sunriver, OR · On-site

$27.90 - $42.40/hr

Water Operator Non-Union Position WTR-Operations Staff-Sunriver 2; Sunriver, Oregon (US-OR) Regular ... * Assist in all aspects of utility construction including, but not limited to, excavation, shoring ...

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in Oregon is $27.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $30.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon? For Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:
Assistant Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,524 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Scrap Yard Excavator Operator

Mid Oregon Personnel

Redmond, OR • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
A growing scrap metal recycling facility is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. Candidates with a minimum of one (1) year of excavator experience are strongly preferred. This position is ideal for individuals who have experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, recycling, or other heavy industrial environments and are looking to expand their skills.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will safely operate excavators and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap metal while maintaining a productive, organized, and safety focused work environment. Qualified candidates will receive hands-on training to operate shear cranes and specialized recycling equipment.
If you enjoy operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of a hardworking team, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator to move, sort, load, and process scrap metal safely and efficiently.
  • Train to operate a shear crane and other heavy equipment used in scrap metal recycling.
  • Load, unload, organize, and transport recyclable materials throughout the yard.
  • Operate loaders, forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment as needed.
  • Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
  • Report equipment maintenance needs and safety concerns promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards while working around heavy machinery.
  • Assist customers with unloading recyclable materials.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform general yard labor and equipment-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of one (1) year of excavator operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, scrap metal recycling, or heavy industrial environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience operating shear cranes, material handlers, loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn new equipment and operating techniques.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle materials safely.
  • Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.

What We Offer
  • Long-term, full-time career opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Paid on-the-job training for shear crane operation
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution match
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Stable, supportive, team-oriented work environment

Schedule
Monday – Friday
8am - 4:30 pm
Full-Time
Compensation
Starting Wage: $22.00–$25.00 per hour (DOE)

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