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Digger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Hampton, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Drive and operate digger derrick to and from job sites to set streetlight poles * Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites * Property or worksite restoration as needed associated ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Saluda, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Drive and operate digger derrick to and from job sites to set streetlight poles * Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites * Property or worksite restoration as needed associated ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Drive and operate digger derrick to and from job sites to set streetlight poles * Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites * Property or worksite restoration as needed associated ...

Team Fishel

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Drive and operate digger derrick to and from job sites to set streetlight poles * Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites * Property or worksite restoration as needed associated ...

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How much do digger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for digger in the United States is $26.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by diggers on construction sites, and how can they be managed?

Diggers often encounter challenges such as working in varying soil conditions, operating heavy machinery safely, and coordinating with other site workers. These challenges can be managed by adhering to safety protocols, conducting regular equipment maintenance, and maintaining clear communication with supervisors and team members. Staying adaptable and attentive to site-specific hazards helps ensure both efficiency and safety on the job.

How much money does a digger make?

A digger, such as an excavator operator or construction worker, typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge tend to earn higher wages, and many work full-time on construction sites or infrastructure projects.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2,000 a day often include specialized roles such as experienced construction diggers working on large projects, certain freelance or consulting positions in engineering or IT, and skilled trades like heavy equipment operators. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience, and may involve working in demanding environments or on short-term contracts with high compensation rates.

How much do diggers make a year?

Diggers, or excavator operators, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually in the United States, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What are diggers?

Diggers are workers or machines that excavate soil, rocks, or other materials from the ground, typically for construction, mining, or landscaping projects. The term often refers to both manual laborers who use tools like shovels and pickaxes, as well as to heavy equipment operators who control machinery such as excavators and backhoes. Diggers play a crucial role in preparing sites for building foundations, installing utilities, or extracting resources. Their work requires physical strength, attention to safety, and sometimes specialized training for operating equipment.

What is the difference between Digger vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDiggerExcavator Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a basic operating license or certificationRequires a valid excavator operator certification or license
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, landscaping, miningConstruction sites, demolition, mining, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageCommonly used term in casual or general contextsFormal job title used in industry and official listings
Job ScopeRefers to the machine or the operatorSpecifically the skilled operator of excavator machinery

While both terms relate to heavy machinery used in construction, a Digger generally refers to the machine itself or a casual term for the operator, whereas an Excavator Operator is a formal job title for a professional trained to operate excavator equipment in various construction and mining projects.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A heavy equipment operator, such as a professional digger or excavator operator, can earn $10,000 or more per month with experience and specialized skills. These roles often require on-the-job training, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols but do not typically require a college degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Digger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Digger, you need physical strength, stamina, a basic understanding of construction or excavation processes, and sometimes relevant on-the-job training or certifications. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as operating small machinery like mini-excavators, is often required. Reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and accurate site work, which is crucial for meeting project deadlines and maintaining safety standards.
More about Digger jobs
What cities are hiring for Digger jobs? Cities with the most Digger job openings:
What states have the most Digger jobs? States with the most job openings for Digger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Digger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Digger jobs are:
Digger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digger job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,795 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Digger Derrick Driver / Operator

Team Fishel

Hampton, VA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Team Fishel rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location
Hampton, VA
Market
General Utility Construction
Who is Team Fishel?
Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top priority and is key in everything we do. We're industry professionals driven by high performance for our customers and each other. Interested in joining our Team?
Description
Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Hampton, VA office.
Duties
  • Drive and operate digger derrick to and from job sites to set streetlight poles
  • Perform clearing, grading, excavations as needed on job sites
  • Property or worksite restoration as needed associated with installation and repair of underground/aerial utilities
  • Performs general construction work (to include physical labor i.e. using hand tools, lifting materials on average up to 50 lbs, etc.) under direction of Foreman or Supervisor

Requirements
  • Have prior experience within the utility construction/maintenance industry driving and operating a digger derrick
  • Holding a valid CDL is required
  • Previous experience operating a mini excavator a plus
  • Capable of reading prints and interpreting utility maps to identify the type and size of underground utilities
  • Able to work as needed (over-time, after hours, on weekends, for emergencies or on-call) and in all weather conditions
  • Able to lift/carry 50 lbs regularly and up to 75 lbs as needed with or without assistance

Starting salary $25 / hour dependent upon applicable experience and certifications.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Leave Benefits
  • Teammate Assistance Program
  • Learn more ( Español )

Team Fishel offers excellent industry training and a career development path for our Teammates. Competitive pay and benefits, including health insurance, 401k, and a company profit sharing plan!
Join Team Fishel, your future and your team.
EOE/DFWP

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