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Contract Excavator Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator $24-$32/Hour | Full-Time | 50+ Hours Weekly Norfolk, VA Now Hiring: Experienced ... Contract-to-Hire Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia ...

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Work on mass excavation, mainline pipe installation, processed water projects, and general site ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

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Contract Excavator Operator information

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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Excavator Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

Aerotek
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 5K employees

$24 - $32/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Excavator Operator

$24-$32/Hour | Full-Time | 50+ Hours Weekly Norfolk, VA

Now Hiring: Experienced Excavator Operators

We're seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support underground utility and excavation projects in the Norfolk area, including work on active airfields. This position offers competitive pay, steady hours, and the opportunity to transition into a long-term role with a growing construction team.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate excavators, dozers, and other heavy equipment.
  • Perform excavation, trenching, and digging for underground utility installations.
  • Follow project plans, site specifications, and grade requirements.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance issues.
  • Work closely with supervisors and crew members to complete projects safely and on schedule.
  • Follow all jobsite safety procedures and regulations.
Required Qualifications
  • Experience operating excavators and heavy construction equipment.
  • Experience with excavation, trenching, and underground utility work.
  • Excavation Certification required.
  • DBIDS Certification required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Strong commitment to safety and quality workmanship.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous airfield or airport construction experience.
  • Experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment, including dozers.
  • Ability to read site plans and utility layouts.
Schedule
  • Monday-Friday
  • Approximately 50 hours per week
  • Overtime opportunities available
Why Join Our Team?

✅ Competitive pay: $24-$32/hour DOE

✅ Consistent hours with overtime potential

✅ Contract-to-hire opportunity

✅ Stable, long-term local work

✅ Opportunity for career growth with an established construction contractor

Apply Today

If you're a certified Excavator Operator looking for steady work and competitive pay in the Norfolk area, apply today.

Pay: $24-$32/hour DOE

Location: Norfolk, VA

Position Type: Contract-to-Hire

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $30.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Virginia Beach,VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 7, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.


Aerotek logo

About Aerotek

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our "people are everything" spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and travel arrangement services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US