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Assistant Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Urban Infraconstruction

Excavator Operator

Farmers Branch, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavate around existing underground utilities while maintaining proper clearances. * Assist crews ... Minimum 1 year of experience operating excavators on underground utility projects. * Experience ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Dig around existing utilities with precision and care * Assist with grading and backfilling ... Proven experience as an excavator operator in underground utility and earthwork environments

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety ... * Assist with other quarry processes as needed, such as blasting or material processing.

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety ... * Assist with other quarry processes as needed, such as blasting or material processing.

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX

$19 - $25/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety ... * Assist with other quarry processes as needed, such as blasting or material processing.

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Buford, GA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Follow all safety protocols and assist in safety drills. Ensure that safety equipment is accessible ... Excavator Operator position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Buford, GA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Follow all safety protocols and assist in safety drills. Ensure that safety equipment is accessible ... the Excavator Operator position, please clickAPPLY NOW to submit your application. To view ...

Urban Infraconstruction

Excavator Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavate around existing underground utilities while maintaining proper clearances. * Assist crews ... Minimum 1 year of experience operating excavators on underground utility projects. * Experience ...

CWR Contracting, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Daytona Beach, FL · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR C.W. Roberts Contracting, Inc. (CWR) is a growing road construction company. We ... Perform light mechanical adjustments and/or assist mechanic in performing repairs * Take action to ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Follow all safety protocols and assist in safety drills. Ensure that safety equipment is accessible ... the Excavator Operator position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view ...

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Henrico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator - DemolitionPosition Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe ... Sort and segregate materials for recycling and disposal. * Assist with site preparation, grading ...

Openwork

Excavator Operator

Galena Park, TX · On-site

$17/hr

In a excavator operator job you'll be responsible for: * General clean-up of any area and/or ... Willing to cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed. * Other duties as ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

Posillico

Excavator Operator

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Excavator Operator The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating ... * Assist with manual labor and general site duties when equipment operation is not required

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Follow all safety protocols and assist in safety drills. Ensure that safety equipment is accessible ... the Excavator Operator position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator - Demolition Position Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe ... Sort and segregate materials for recycling and disposal. * Assist with site preparation, grading ...

S B Cox Inc

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator - Demolition Position Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe ... Sort and segregate materials for recycling and disposal. * Assist with site preparation, grading ...

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator - DemolitionPosition Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe ... Sort and segregate materials for recycling and disposal. * Assist with site preparation, grading ...

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Assistant Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do assistant excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Assistant Excavator Operators?

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.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

There is consistent demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and land development. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and excavation industries.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for operating a mini excavator typically ranges from $20 to $45, depending on factors such as location, experience, and project complexity. Assistant excavator operators with certification and experience may command higher rates, especially in specialized or demanding environments.

Do I need a CDL to operate excavators?

Assistant excavator operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate excavators, as these machines are usually operated on job sites rather than on public roads. However, if the job requires transporting excavators over public roads, a CDL may be necessary. Certification in equipment operation and safety training are often required for this role.

What are some 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 top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or large construction projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

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.
More about Assistant Excavator Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Excavator Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Excavator Operator jobs are:
Assistant Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Excavator Operator job openings in the United States 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 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

Urban Infraconstruction

Farmers Branch, TX • On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Urban Infraconstruction is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to support underground utility construction projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience operating excavators on water, sewer, and storm drain projects and be knowledgeable in trenching operations, trench boxes, and utility installation.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate excavators to perform trenching, excavation, grading, backfilling, and utility installation activities.
  • Excavate around existing underground utilities while maintaining proper clearances.
  • Assist crews with the installation of water, sewer, and storm drainage systems.
  • Install and work around trench boxes, shoring systems, and other trench safety equipment.
  • Read and understand utility plans, grade stakes, and cut sheets.
  • Ensure excavations comply with OSHA trench safety standards.
  • Coordinate with pipe crews, foremen, and superintendents to complete work safely and efficiently.

Qualifications
  • Minimum 1 year of experience operating excavators on underground utility projects.
  • Experience installing water, sewer, and storm drain utilities.
  • Knowledge of trench boxes, trench safety, and OSHA excavation requirements.
  • Ability to read grade stakes and utility plans.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Strong commitment to safety and teamwork.

Why Urban?
  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Career Advancement Opportunities

Our Company is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications for all positions equally without regard to their race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, among other things, or any other legally protected status.

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