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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Perform excavation work around live utilities, including water, sewer, and storm lines * Assist ... Prior experience operating a variety of heavy equipment. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Excavator Operator

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Perform excavation work around live utilities, including water, sewer, and storm lines * Assist ... Prior experience operating a variety of heavy equipment. * Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

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Position Overview We are seeking a skilled, safety-focused Wet Utility Main Excavator Operator to ... Maintain accurate trench bottoms, bedding support, and spoil placement; assist with trench box ...

New

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as excavators for trenching. * Conduct routine inspections and ... environment. * Assist with site setup, material staging, and cleanup activities as needed to ...

Urgent

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as excavators for trenching. * Conduct routine inspections and ... environment. * Assist with site setup, material staging, and cleanup activities as needed to ...

Urgent

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders, and related earthmoving equipment for trenching ... Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times. * Assist the crew with ...

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders, and related earthmoving equipment for trenching ... Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times. * Assist the crew with ...

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate excavators, mini-excavators, loaders, and related earthmoving equipment for trenching ... Follow trench safety, shoring, and barricading standards at all times. * Assist the crew with ...

Backhoe Operator

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$53K - $70K/yr

... excavate trenches on construction sites/roadways and backfill and perform fine grading, along with operating other related equipment to assist in the construction and/or maintenance of seasonal ...

Backhoe Operator

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$59K - $94K/yr

... excavate trenches on construction sites/roadways and backfill and perform fine grading, along with operating other related equipment to assist in the construction and/or maintenance of seasonal ...

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

See Washington salary details

$15

$29

$47

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in Washington is $29.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $32.40 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 Washington? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator

Clark Construction Group

Lorton, VA โ€ข On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Clark Water is seeking an experienced and safety-focused Excavator Operator to support water utility construction and maintenance projects. This role involves operating heavy equipment to install, repair, and maintain water lines, mains, and related infrastructure while working closely with crews to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to specification.


Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate excavators and related heavy equipment for trenching, backfilling, grading, and material handling
  • Perform excavation work around live utilities, including water, sewer, and storm lines
  • Assist with installation and repair of water mains, services, valves, hydrants, and related structures
  • Read and interpret utility plans, drawings, and grade stakes
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Maintain a clean and safe worksite in compliance with OSHA and company safety standards
  • Work collaboratively with foremen, laborers, and other operators
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support project needs
  • Alignment to Clark Standards of Excellence: Self-Motivated, Results Oriented, Adaptable, Team Player, Accountable, Ethical, Innovative, Resilient, Builds Relationships


Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Prior experience operating a variety of heavy equipment.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Excellent vision or the use of prescribed lenses.
  • Exceptional manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • A sound understanding of pertinent safety guidelines.
  • Capacity to provide and follow direction.
  • Sharp decision-making skills, particularly when under pressure.
  • Ability to work extended hours, as required.

Join us in building the future! If you are ready for a challenging yet rewarding career in construction, we encourage you to apply.

The work environment and requirements described below are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.

The Physical Demands of the Job: This is a physically demanding role on an active construction site. You must be able to work safely around heavy equipment and construction traffic. You must be able to frequently lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds alone, and use team-lifting techniques for anything heavier. Long periods of continual standing or walking are required, along with the ability to bend, climb, kneel, and reach. Good balance and dexterity are crucial, as you will be working safely at various heights and in tight spaces. You'll need visual acuity to operate equipment and spot hazards, and the ability to hear with or without assistance to understand instructions in noisy environments.

Your Work Environment on the Site: You'll regularly work outdoors and may be exposed to the elements-be it heat, cold, rain, snow, or wind. The work environment frequently involves exposure to moving mechanical equipment, high noise levels, dust, fumes, airborne particles, vibrations, and potential electrical hazards. Your safety is our number one priority, which is why you will be required to consistently wear all necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and strictly follow Clark Construction's safety policies and procedures, and all applicable laws, at all locations.

Our High-Performing Culture: This is a demanding, high-performance environment. We are looking for candidates who are energized by challenge, thrive under pressure, and are prepared to do what it takes to achieve exceptional results. Success in this role requires significant commitment, including flexibility to work extended hours, especially during critical project phases or client deadlines.

A Drug Free Workplace: Clark promotes a drug free workplace. A pre-employment drug "fitness for duty" screening is required, and the company conducts random quarterly drug "fitness for duty" tests.

Join us in building the future! If you are ready for a challenging yet rewarding career in construction, we encourage you to apply.