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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs in Seneca, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

See Seneca, SC salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in Seneca, SC is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $27.21 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 Seneca, SC?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Seneca, SC are:

What cities near Seneca, SC are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Seneca, SC with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:

Assistant Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in Seneca, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,779 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator (Dozer/Excavator)

Meehan Incorporated

Anderson, SC • On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Are you looking to join a locally owned, family run business where you can grow with the company, instead of working corporate where you are only a number? If so, Meehan Incorporated may be the place for you! We are seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team and run our bulldozer, excavator, and back hoe equipment.
Who We Are:
Meehan Incorporated is a trusted and very well respected environmental, erosion control, and site development construction company with nearly 40 years of experience. Meehan Inc. provides excellent benefits, a rich culture of safety, and a great work environment.
What We Offer:
  • Medical Insurance with Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • A safe working environment and Stop Work Order rights for all employees
  • Per Diems for out-of-town travel
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • On the job training for employees that have a can-do right attitude, ambition for growth, and enjoy physical work outdoors

What You Will Do:
  • Perform pre-operation inspection each day to ensure equipment is in working order.
  • Clean and perform basic maintenance on equipment at the end of the day.
  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment in order to perform the day's goals.
  • Assist in site preparation and clearing through the use of powered and hand tools, such as long and short handled shovels, axes, ditch blades, sling blades, chain saws, powered weed trimmers, sledge hammers, hand brooms, hand-operated post-hole diggers, and hand-driven compaction devices.
  • Load, unload, and stack equipment and materials.
  • Perform seeding, straw blowing, and matting.
  • Install filter sock and silt fence.
  • Ensure proper installation and maintenance of temporary erosion and sediment control devices and pipe laying.
  • Maintain safe, clean, and orderly jobsites, company vehicles, and company property.
  • Spot trucks and trailers on-site.
  • Perform work on company farm as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Top Candidates Will Have:
  • A willingness to learn environmental aspects of jobs, uses for various aggregate, excavation, grading, slope and erosion control materials is a plus and may lead to bonus/advancement at yearly evaluations.
  • A minimum of 3 years' recent experience operating heavy equipment such as dozers, skid-steers, excavation machines, and backhoes.
  • Ability to grade by eye to 1/10 of a foot and experience with GPS.
  • A thorough understanding of practices involved in the use of various types of heavy equipment.
  • A thorough understanding of maintenance and basic repairs associated with heavy equipment.
  • A thorough understanding of safety rules and ability to safely operate machinery.
  • Superior skill in operating assigned equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to travel out of town for a week or longer at a time.
  • Sharp decision-making skills, particularly when under pressure.
  • A High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Reliable transportation to and from the main office.

Physical Requirements:
Must be able to:
  • Sit for prolonged periods while operating heavy machinery.
  • Work outside for prolonged periods through all weather conditions and terrains.
  • Work for long periods, including weekends, when necessary.
  • Safely ascend and descend large pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Lift up to 50 pounds without assistance.

Meehan is an equal opportunity employer. By signing below, I certify the information contained in this application is true, correct, and complete. I understand that if employed, false statements on this application are grounds for immediate dismissal. By signing below, I authorized Meehan Inc. to perform a criminal backgrounds check, obtain information from credit reporting agencies and agree to submit to a drug screening for illegal substance abuse. By signing below, I acknowledge that I will abide by the Company's Employee Handbook, including policies related to compensation confidentiality.

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