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Contract Excavator Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pomeroy, OH · On-site

Minimum of three years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer ... Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the ...

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Contract Excavator Operator information

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$13

$24

$39

How much do contract excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract excavator operator in Ohio is $24.87, 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 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Contract Excavator Operator jobs near you

Heavy Equipment Operator - Cuyahoga Heights

Cuyahoga Heights, OH • On-site

SMS Mill Services, LLC.
See more jobs at SMS Mill Services, LLC.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
SUMMARY
SMS Mill Services, a leading mill services provider is seeking a heavy equipment operator for its Cuyahoga Heights, OH location. We are located on Charter Steel mill property. 
JOB DESCRIPTION
  • Equipment Operator will learn the role and complete work at the direction of a more senior Equipment Operator or Supervisor.
  • Equipment Operator will learn how to operate various pieces of heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner while moving scrap material around the scrap yard for processing.
  • Equipment Operator will ensure that all his/her efforts are compliant with the company’s Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
  • Equipment Operator will learn one or more of the following: loaders, drop-ball cranes, excavators, dump trucks. 
  • Safety and coordination with other work onsite is imperative.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights including but not limited to loaders, drop-ball cranes, excavators, dump trucks. 
  • Keep the yard clean.
  • Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as other equipment, workers, or moving objects
  • Perform daily inspections, safety checks, preventive maintenance, and repairs of equipment; check required fluids and grease equipment. Report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to the appropriate supervisor.
  • Cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed.
  • Potential to perform general labor duties which may/may not include sweeping, raking, shoveling/snow removal, general clean-up of work area and equipment, and physically handling materials and supplies.
  • Other job-related duties as assigned
     
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • 3 -5 years operating heavy equipment in an industrial setting.
  • Basic literacy in English
  • Strong communication and time management skills
  • Work with a positive attitude
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Reliability to report to work on time·
  • Understand and follow supervisors’ directives (written and oral instructions)
  • Flexibility to changing work conditions, assignments, and schedules
  • Ability to work in all-weather elements including rain, snow, cold, and heat
  • Comfortable working in an industrial environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • MUST be able to pass drug screen, background check and physical 
  • DAY SHIFT POSITION! 6am-6pm 
  • Extra hours may be required, sometimes on weekends and weekdays based on volume needs
  • Position is hourly and eligible for overtime
  • Hourly pay $25/hr with experience!
NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the company may exercise its employment-at-will rights at any time.
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 12 hour shift
  • Night shift

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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