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Cat Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Charles Town, WV ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Charles Town, WV ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Charles Town, WV ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

CAT 320 CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Mass Excavator Operator Heavy Earthmoving (CAT 352) Location: Front Royal, VA Position Type: Direct ... CAT 352 (Mass Excavation Configuration) Move Massive Dirt Power Large-Scale Site Development! Are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Charles Town, WV

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

CAT 320 - CAT 336 Excavators Reports To: Team Lead About the Role Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator looking for a permanent, direct-hire opportunity with steady work and modern iron? We are ...

Excavator Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

CAT 352 (Mass Excavation Configuration) Move Massive Dirt - Power Large-Scale Site Development! Are you a heavy-equipment professional who knows how to move dirt fast and keep haul trucks moving ...

Excavator Operator

Dulles, VA ยท On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Mass Excavator Operator Heavy Earthmoving (CAT 352) Location: Front Royal, VA Position Type: Direct ... CAT 352 (Mass Excavation Configuration) Move Massive Dirt Power Large-Scale Site Development! Are ...

Excavator Operator

Front Royal, VA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

CAT 352 (Mass Excavation Configuration) Move Massive Dirt - Power Large-Scale Site Development! Are you a heavy-equipment professional who knows how to move dirt fast and keep haul trucks moving ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cat Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do cat excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat 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 is a Cat Excavator Operator?

A Cat Excavator Operator is a skilled professional who operates Caterpillar (Cat) excavators to dig, move, and lift materials on construction sites. Their job involves maneuvering heavy equipment to perform tasks such as trenching, grading, and site preparation. Operators must be knowledgeable about safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and interpreting construction plans. They play a crucial role in ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by Cat Excavator Operators on construction sites?

Cat Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or uneven spaces, maintaining equipment safety, and adapting to changing site conditions. Operators must remain vigilant to avoid underground utilities and coordinate closely with ground crews to ensure efficient project progress. Additionally, weather and soil conditions can impact machine performance and safety, requiring operators to adjust their techniques and remain flexible throughout the workday.

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

To thrive as a Cat Excavator Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license or specialized equipment certification. Familiarity with operating systems like CAT Grade Control, hydraulic controls, and safety monitoring devices is essential. Attention to detail, strong spatial awareness, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, precise, and efficient operation of excavators on construction sites, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What is the difference between Cat Excavator Operator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectCat Excavator OperatorBackhoe Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, equipment-specific trainingOSHA certification, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationConstruction sites, utility work, excavation
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, demolitionConstruction, landscaping, utility installation

Both Cat Excavator Operators and Backhoe Operators require similar certifications and work in construction environments. The main difference lies in equipment specialization: excavator operators handle large, long-reach machinery for deep digging, while backhoe operators use versatile equipment for smaller, varied tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on project needs.

What states have the most Cat Excavator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cat Excavator Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cat Excavator Operator jobs?

For Cat Excavator Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cat Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

2nd Shift Excavator Operator 6pm to 5am

Wallace, SC โ€ข On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Excavator Operator

Ferroglobe USA Quartz is currently seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to join our dynamic team in Wallace, South Carolina. This position plays a crucial role in our operations, contributing to the efficient extraction and processing of high-quality minerals used across various industries. If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for heavy equipment operation and a commitment to safety, we invite you to apply.

Operate Heavy Machinery: Safely and efficiently operate excavators CAT 336, 340, 350, 352, and other heavy machinery for mining and moving earth, minerals, and other materials.

Site Preparation: Perform tasks related to site preparation, including clearing, digging, grading, and leveling, ensuring adherence to project specifications and timelines.

Maintenance and Safety: Conduct pre-operational checks and routine maintenance on equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation. Adhere to all workplace safety policies, rules, and regulations.

Material Handling: Load and transport materials as required, ensuring minimal disruption to operations and adherence to safety standards.

Collaboration: Work closely with the site management and other team members to ensure smooth operations and timely completion of projects.

Problem-Solving: Identify and resolve operational issues, reporting any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards to management immediately.

Compliance: Ensure all operations comply with environmental policies and regulations, contributing to sustainable and responsible mining practices.

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience with 340 CAT Excavator

Proven experience as an excavator operator or in a similar role within the mining, construction, or related industry.

Valid certification to operate heavy machinery.

Strong understanding of safety regulations and the ability to implement them at all times.

Excellent physical condition and coordination.

Ability to work in various weather conditions and adapt to changing environments.

Effective communication skills and the ability to work well within a team.

Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Company-Paid Short-Term Disability and Basic Life, Voluntary Life and LTD, Employer 401k Match and paid time off.

Performs jobs under varying conditions (dust, oil, grease, hot and humid temperatures, fumes, noise, etc.)

Ability to lift 75lbs, Floor to waist, Waist to shoulder. Overhead, Carry 20 feet

Wears proper PPE in the manufacturing area (shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection)

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled