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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Skilled Labor

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Occasional operation of small equipment such as skid steers, mini excavators, rollers and/or backhoe. Can periodically relieve equipment operator for breaks, and/or assist with equipment moves on ...

Badger Daylighting

Operations Supervisor

Mascot, TN · On-site

... operators follow proper safety protocol, onboarding and training new operators, and customer ... Responsibilities What You'll Be Doing: * Assist with dispatching units and schedule projects on a ...

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $25.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.36 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 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 Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:

Assistant Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,016 per year, or $25 per hour.

Tieback & Micropile Driller

Keller North America, Inc.

Knoxville, TN

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Keller North America rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company LogoOverview

Keller North America is a leading geotechnical specialty contractor providing deep foundations, earth retention, and ground improvement solutions throughout the United States. We are currently seeking an experienced Tieback & Micropile Drill Operator to support our geotechnical construction operations.

This role is responsible for safely and efficiently operating specialized drill rigs used for tiebacks, micropiles, anchors, soil nails, and grouting applications.

Responsibilities
  • Operate specialized drill rigs such as Klemm, Casagrande, Hutte, TEI, Berretta, or similar equipment
  • Perform drilling for tiebacks, micropiles, anchors, soil nails, and grouting applications
  • Inspect, operate, and maintain drilling equipment according to manufacturer specifications
  • Perform rigging, hoisting, and spotting for equipment movement
  • Perform soil leveling and ground preparation for equipment and materials
  • Troubleshoot mechanical issues and assist with basic equipment repairs
  • Operate support equipment such as skid steers, forklifts, excavators, mixers, and pumps as needed
  • Perform general labor tasks including digging, backfilling, site cleanup, and material handling
  • Safely operate hand and power tools including drills, saws, grinders, jackhammers, concrete mixers, and pneumatic tampers
  • Maintain safe working conditions and follow all safety policies and OSHA regulations
  • Travel to jobsites throughout the Rocky Mountain region and surrounding states, including extended assignments

Training and Advancement

Keller provides company-specific training and supports continued development and certification.

Qualifications

Minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience operating tieback or micropile drill rigs or similar equipment

  • Hands-on experience as a drill operator in the construction or geotechnical industry
  • OSHA 10-hour (or higher) and First Aid training preferred
  • Experience with dual rotary drill heads, duplex systems, or down-the-hole hammers is a plus
  • Must be self-motivated and willing to travel
  • Must be able to work in a team environment and communicate effectively
  • Must be able to perform physical labor including frequent bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Must be comfortable working outdoors in extreme weather and in confined or uneven work areas
  • Experience in ground improvement, grouting, or earth retention is a plus

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Employment Type: OTHER

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