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Contract Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service ...

TechFlow, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Yuma, AZ

$32.69/hr

Equipment is used to excavate, load or move dirt, gravel or other materials. Operator may read and ... We've successfully performed over 60 service contracts and we understand the unique challenges ...

TechFlow, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$32.69/hr

Equipment is used to excavate, load or move dirt, gravel or other materials. Operator may read and ... We've successfully performed over 60 service contracts and we understand the unique challenges ...

TechFlow, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$32.69/hr

Equipment is used to excavate, load or move dirt, gravel or other materials. Operator may read and ... We've successfully performed over 60 service contracts and we understand the unique challenges ...

Sorensen Companies (SCI)

Underground Laborer

Mesa, AZ

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

... operators, and maintaining safe and efficient jobsite operations ... You will perform manual labor tasks related to excavation, conduit installation, site preparation ...

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All JobsContract Excavator Operator JobsContract Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona

Contract Excavator Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do contract excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract excavator operator in Arizona is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract excavator operator?

Contract Excavator Operators are skilled professionals who operate excavators and other heavy machinery on a contract basis for construction, demolition, or earthmoving projects. Instead of working as full-time employees, they are typically hired by construction companies or contractors for specific jobs or periods. Their responsibilities include digging, grading, trenching, and moving earth or materials according to project specifications. They must have a good understanding of equipment safety, maintenance, and efficient operation. These operators often need to be licensed or certified, depending on regional regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a contract excavator operator?

To thrive as a Contract Excavator Operator, you need hands-on experience in heavy equipment operation, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a relevant operator's license or certification. Familiarity with industry-standard excavators, GPS machine control systems, and routine equipment maintenance procedures is important. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safety and collaboration on job sites. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation, reducing risks and maximizing productivity in construction projects.

What are common challenges faced by contract excavator operators when working on multiple job sites?

Contract excavator operators often need to quickly adapt to new job sites, each with unique terrain, safety requirements, and team dynamics. Managing different equipment, understanding varying site layouts, and collaborating with new crews can be challenging. Additionally, maintaining consistent safety practices and ensuring proper communication with supervisors and other contractors are crucial for success. Staying organized and flexible helps operators handle these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Contract Excavator Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectContract Excavator OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, excavator operation certificationOSHA safety training, general equipment operation certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projectsConstruction, mining, industrial sites
Employer & Industry UsageContract basis, specialized in excavationFull-time or contract, broader equipment handling

The Contract Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators for excavation projects, often on a contractual basis, focusing on digging, trenching, and site preparation. Equipment Operators may handle a variety of machinery, including bulldozers, loaders, and excavators, across different industries. While both roles require safety certifications and experience with heavy machinery, Contract Excavator Operators are more focused on excavation-specific tasks, whereas Equipment Operators have a broader scope of equipment handling.

How much do they pay a contract excavator operator?

Contract excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates may vary based on certifications, equipment used, and the duration of the contract.

How to get a job as a contract excavator operator?

To get a job as a contract excavator operator, you should obtain a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and relevant excavator operation certifications. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions, demonstrating proficiency with heavy machinery, and building a network in the construction industry can improve your chances of securing contract work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona are:

Contract Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Excavator Operator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Mining

LTS Managed Technical Services LLC

Sahuarita, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Run the gear. Move material. Get the job done right.
Ledcor is hiring Equipment Operators for our mining teams in Arizona, Nevada and Idaho. If you can run multiple pieces of equipment and take pride in safe, efficient work, this is your chance to join a solid crew and build a long-term career.
Apply today to join the Ledcor team!

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water trucks, and support/utility equipment
  • Support loading, hauling, and dumping operations to keep production moving
  • Safely build and maintain pioneer and access roads in rough terrain
  • Load trucks efficiently and set up dumps to optimize cycle times
  • Complete pre-trip inspections and daily Field Level Hazard Assessments
  • Maintain equipment and report any maintenance or repair needs
  • Communicate clearly with team members across the site

Qualifications:

  • Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility equipment preferred
  • Experience in mining, heavy civil, or construction environments is an asset
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Valid MSHA Part 48 (surface, metal/non-metal) required
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol testing

Work Conditions:

  • Rotating shifts, 10-12 hour per day
  • Overtime paid after 40 hours
  • Steady, site-based work with long-term opportunities
  • Daily Living Out Allowance (LOA) if applicable
  • Health and wellness benefits, plus 401(k) matching
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions

Additional Information

Ledcor Heavy Civil and Mining services reach across the lifespan of a mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service offerings are vast-as are the projects we work on.

Ledcor has been recognized as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

Our competitive total rewards package provides compensation and benefits that support your physical, mental and financial well-being. We offer exciting, challenging work with opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page. Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email.

All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Ledcor participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Link to: https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

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