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Contract Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Excavator Operator

Loudon, TN · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

We're a growing, family-owned residential plumbing company looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our team. If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations ...

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Contract Excavator Owner Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do contract excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract excavator owner operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $25.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Excavator Owner Operator vs Contract Excavator Employee?

AspectContract Excavator Owner OperatorContract Excavator Employee
CredentialsRelevant excavator certifications, CDL (if applicable)Same certifications, often provided or required by employer
Work EnvironmentSelf-managed, operates own equipment on various sitesWorks on employer’s equipment, follows company policies
Employer RelationshipIndependent contractor, responsible for taxes and equipment maintenanceEmployee, receives benefits and payroll deductions

The main difference between a Contract Excavator Owner Operator and a Contract Excavator Employee lies in their employment status and equipment ownership. Owner operators work independently, own their equipment, and manage their own business, while employees operate equipment provided by the employer and follow company policies. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work setup and legal responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Contract Excavator Owner Operator jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Contract Excavator Owner Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,016 per year, or $25 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Loudon, TN • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Plumbing Excavator Operator

Bio Plumbing
Location: Loudon, TN

Pay Range: $30–32 per Hour (DOE) + Overtime + Benefits

Build More Than Trenches—Build a Career.

We're a growing, family-owned residential plumbing company looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our team. If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations and enjoy working alongside a hardworking crew, we'd love to meet you.

This is a hands-on position where you'll play a critical role in residential plumbing projects, ensuring excavation work is completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to homeowners' properties.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • 3+ years of excavator operating experience, preferably in residential plumbing or underground utilities.
  • Experience digging around existing utilities and working from utility locates.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently in residential neighborhoods.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to assist the plumbing team when not operating equipment.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • CDL is a plus but not required.

Benefits

Why Join Our Team?

  • Competitive Pay: $30–32 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stable, year-round work
  • Modern, well-maintained equipment
  • Supportive, family-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for advancement as our company continues to grow

Join Our Team

We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, values safety, and enjoys being part of a team that delivers quality service to homeowners every day. If you're dependable, experienced, and ready for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build the infrastructure that keeps our community running!