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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Non CDL-Vac Truck Operator

Ogden, UT · On-site

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Safely operate vacuum excavation (vac) trucks and associated equipment for hydro or air excavation ... * Assist crews with general labor duties when not actively operating equipment. * Inspect and ...

Equipment Operator

Moab, UT · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

... dozers, excavators, graders, water trucks, and drill rigs. This position is responsible for ... required. • Assist maintenance personnel by communicating equipment issues, supporting ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Excavator Operator information

See Utah salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in Utah is $23.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $26.06 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 Utah? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:

Full-time

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McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a critical role in supporting the construction of utility-scale solar projects in Paragonah, UT. This position is responsible for safely operating heavy construction equipment to assist with site preparation, material movement, pile installation support, and overall project execution. Operators work closely with site supervisors and construction crews to ensure work is completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with project specifications and safety standards. The Heavy Equipment Operator may also be assigned additional duties on the job as required by the project leadership.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate/maneuver heavy dirt equipment on construction sites in a safe and effective manner, including but not limited to dozer, roller, backhoe, excavator, and motor grader.
  • Equipment Daily checks to ensure equipment functions properly and safely.
  • Complete shallow and deep trenching excavation activities
  • Rough and fine grading with dozer (GPS)
  • Safely load and unload materials
  • Clean, maintain and conduct basic equipment repairs.
  • Recognize hazards and danger zones
  • Ensure equipment is safely and securely stored when not in use.
  • Coordinate with crew members in response to hand and/or audio signals.
  • All other duties assigned by site leadership

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum age: 18+
  • Prior experience on solar, commercial, and/or civil construction projects operating heavy dirt construction equipment
  • Thorough knowledge of equipment and safety processes used in large construction sites
  • Understand logistics and traffic control plans.
  • Mathematically incline convert to tenths of a foot.
  • Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and leadership within the team.
  • Demonstrate capability and competence in large dirt size equipment
  • Ability to perform heavy lifting, pushing, pulling of material weighing 50 lbs.
  • Knowledge of equipment maintenance and storage
  • Prior experience with grading
  • Ability to operate dozers and other equipment with GPS systems
  • Ability to squat, crawl and work in awkward positions and confined spaces.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Unrestricted use of hands, arms, shoulders, upper/lower back, visual acuity, depth and color perception.
  • Self-motivated.
  • Ability to work well with others in a team environment.
  • Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency.
  • Proof of Identity and Employment Authorization

McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

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