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Contract Excavator Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Solid Rock Excavation

Excavator Operator

Parker, CO

$25 - $28/hr

Solid Rock Excavation is looking for an Excavator Operator to join our talented team. We are an ... When you contract with Solid Rock Excavation we will work hard to earn your respect and your ...

PRIM

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... operating equipment, specifically the backhoe and mini excavator, for the installation of ... Pay and benefits determined by union contract * Competitive compensation paid weekly * Company ...

Prim

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... operating equipment, specifically the backhoe and mini excavator , for the installation of ... Pay and benefits determined by union contract * Competitive compensationpaid weekly * Company ...

Prim

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... operating equipment, specifically the backhoe and mini excavator , for the installation of ... Pay and benefits determined by union contract * Competitive compensationpaid weekly * Company ...

SiteWise

CDL Operator II - New Con

Henderson, CO · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

SiteWise

CDL Operator II - New Con

Henderson, CO · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

SiteWise

CDL Operator II - ATMOS

Henderson, CO

$28 - $32/hr

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

SiteWise

CDL Operator II - ATMOS

Henderson, CO · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator) Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

SiteWise

Operator - Restoration

Henderson, CO

$24 - $29/hr

Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site. * Follows ... Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the ...

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All JobsContract Excavator Operator JobsContract Excavator Operator Jobs in Colorado

Contract Excavator Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do contract excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract excavator operator in Colorado is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $30.10 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 Colorado?

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Contract Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Contract Excavator Operator job openings:

Contract Excavator Operator jobs near you

Excavator Operator

Solid Rock Excavation

Parker, CO

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Solid Rock Excavation is looking for an Excavator Operator to join our talented team. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer in search of a strong and dedicated team member to support our growing team.

Position Summary:

Operate machines daily in a safe and efficient manner. This position supports our daily operation by digging basements, sewer lines, and rock excavation with precision and timeliness. A positive attitude, attention to detail and safety, and a team-oriented mindset while being successful operating independently is paramount. Our ideal candidate must have satisfactory understanding of the machine use, as well as its role in the operation and space it is working in (around utilities, utility locates, etc.). This position will be located working in job sites around the Denver metro.

Benefits:

  • Group Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, and Life Insurance options available
  • 401k with Company match options
  • Paid Time Off
  • Overtime options
  • Weekly pay
  • Direct Deposit

Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment in compliance with the company's operating safety policies and procedures
  • Daily pre and post operation inspections with communication to maintenance and leadership if maintenance is needed
  • Working knowledge of equipment operations and maintenance.
  • Confidently work independently and in a team atmosphere with working knowledge of daily, weekly, and monthly objectives
  • Adhere to task completion deadlines in a safe manner
  • Understanding that position description and responsibilities are not all encompassing of job requirements, and that tasks may vary and grow

Position Requirements:

  • Previous experience as an Excavator Operator or in a related role in Construction Excavation
  • Experience in basement excavation concerning sewer and water
  • Coordination and awareness required for operating heavy machinery
  • Experience digging safely and in accordance with existing underground utilities and with trench boxes
  • Ability to slope or bench an excavation.
  • Ability to operate heavy equipment for long periods with continuous attention to detail and safety
  • Can confidently communicate with Project Managers and Crew Members in adherence to crew goals and needs, including safety objectives and workload support
  • Occasional Saturday work when needed in accordance to work completion goals
  • Must have reliable transportation and the ability to consistently arrive to work on time

Physical Requirements:

  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. without assistance
  • Bend, Walk, Twist, Stand up to 8 hours daily
  • Repetitive Movement up to 8 hours daily
  • Push / Pull - up to 8 hours daily

The ownership and management of Solid Rock Excavation has over 50 years of experience in the construction industry. Our experience in both residential and commercial construction has given us the knowledge to tackle any challenge.
Solid Rock Excavation is a customer oriented company. We strive to treat our customers, employees, and vendors with professionalism and respect. When you contract with Solid Rock Excavation we will work hard to earn your respect and your confidence.