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Digger Derrick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Saluda, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick to ...

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 ...

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Henrico, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick ...

Description Team Fishel , the Best Choice in Utility Engineering and Construction, is hiring a Digger Derrick Driver / Operator for our Suffolk, VA office. Duties * Drive and operate digger derrick ...

Description Derrick Digger Operator We are seeking a Digger Derrick Operator, preferably with experience in the electrical or underground field, to install traffic signal lighting will also be ...

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Digger Derrick Operator information

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$11

$27

$35

How much do digger derrick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for digger derrick operator in the United States is $27.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Digger Derrick Operator job?

A Digger Derrick Operator is responsible for operating a specialized truck-mounted machine equipped with an auger to drill holes and set utility poles or other structures. They work primarily in the utility, telecommunications, and construction industries. Operators must ensure safe operation, follow job site protocols, and maintain the equipment. The job requires physical strength, mechanical knowledge, and adherence to safety regulations. Many employers require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and industry-specific training or certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Digger Derrick Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Digger Derrick Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience operating heavy equipment, a high school diploma or GED, and often a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with digger derrick machinery, hydraulic controls, and safety protocols—along with OSHA 10 or related certifications—is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and teamwork skills distinguish outstanding operators in this field. These abilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant utility or construction work at job sites.

What does a typical workday look like for a Digger Derrick Operator?

A typical workday for a Digger Derrick Operator involves operating specialized equipment to dig holes, set poles, and assist with lifting heavy materials, usually on utility, telecommunications, or construction sites. Operators begin each day by inspecting their equipment for safety and functionality, followed by receiving work assignments and collaborating closely with a crew. Tasks often include maneuvering the digger derrick to precise locations, monitoring surroundings for safety, and sometimes performing routine maintenance. Collaboration with other team members and adherence to safety protocols are essential throughout the day, and overtime or variable hours are common depending on project deadlines or emergencies. This dynamic environment offers opportunities to develop advanced skills and pursue supervisory or specialized technical roles over time.

More about Digger Derrick Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Digger Derrick Operator jobs? Cities with the most Digger Derrick Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Digger Derrick Operator jobs? The most popular types of Digger Derrick Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Digger Derrick Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Digger Derrick Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Digger Derrick Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,492 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Digger Derrick Operator

Digger Derrick Operator

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Toledo, OH

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Davey Tree rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 28 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Company: Davey Resource Group, Inc.  
Locations: Toledo, OH  
Additional Locations: Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania 
Work Site: On Site   
Req ID: 211963 

Position Overview

Telecommunications Operator will be responsible for performing skilled equipment tasks in accordance with standard industry practices within the construction, maintenance, and operation of overhead-aerial telecommunications. This position will be responsible for using various specialized construction equipment in an outside fast-paced work environment.

Responsibilities
  • Drive and operate a derrick digger/aerial lift truck, coupled with a trailer.
  • Work with aerial crew or assist as a laborer when not operating equipment.
  • Train others on the proper operation of equipment.
  • Operate communications devices in accordance with company policies.
  • Operate Company vehicle in a safe and responsible manner: Clean, maintain, stock, and secure assigned vehicle and equipment, in accordance with company policies.
  • Utilize and become proficient with tasks, tools, tablets, test equipment, and information that will enhance business results.
  • Adhere to industry-specific, local, state, and federal regulations, as applicable.
  • Know, understand, and follow company policy.
  • Completes paperwork, timesheets, test results, vehicle inspection, and logs daily
  • Assists other Team personnel in the performance of their duties when requested to promote a Team approach to problem-solving.
  • Visually assess digging areas to ensure that areas have been staked/located prior to digging.
  • Must always comply with proper safety standards/procedures and work practices according to DRG policy or the customer’s special request.
  • Report all personal & vehicle accidents/incidents immediately to supervisors, cooperate, and assist in the investigation.
  • Assists with job site setup and clean-up as necessary.
  • Operates construction equipment safely in a variety of urban and rural areas.
  • Performs site restoration work.
  • Safely load equipment, secure load, transport, and unload construction equipment.
  • Learning new skills and techniques on a continual basis and passing that on to others.
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Requirements
  • Must have knowledge of the following: traffic laws, ordinances, rules involved in equipment operation, hazards, and applicable safety rules and precautions for heavy equipment operation.
  • Must be competent in the laws, regulations, and identification of underground utility locations.
  • Knowledge of DOT requirements and safety protocols.
  • General knowledge of construction practices
  • Local candidates preferred as relocation assistance is not available for this position.
  • Willing to travel and flexible with time away from home
  • Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug screens
  • The work environment is frequently loud and requires the employee to work in a variety of outdoor conditions
  • Knowledge of materials and tools used in line construction and maintenance work
  • Understanding of separation and clearance regulations
  • Dependable and Trustworthy
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with construction equipment and machinery
  • Carry 75-80 lbs., to include an extension ladder
  • Ability to work at heights of 20+ feet, bend, stand, sit, crawl, climb and lift throughout the work shift
  • Willingness to work under all weather conditions
  • Work independently or effectively as part of a team
Qualifications
  • 1+ years of Aerial Lineman, telecommunication and pole climbing experience preferred
  • 1+ years of experience working on Construction or Utility projects.
  • CDL Class A driver’s license is required.
  • OSHA certification is a plus, but not required. Must be able to complete online OSHA and safety-related certifications
Additional Information

What We Offer [Benefits]:
We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology, and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience for employees at all levels.

  • Group health plans* 
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance*
  • Life insurance*
  • Paid parental leave
  • 401k with up to a 4% company match**
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan:  Opportunity to buy company stock at a 15% discount
  • Holidays and paid time off*
  • Payroll savings plan*
  • Charitable matching gift program*
  • Employee referral bonus program*
  • Employee Educational Scholarship*
  • Davey Family Scholarship*
  • 20% discount on all Davey services*
  • Cell phone discounts*
  • Vehicle purchase discount program*
  • Plus, so much more!

* All listed benefits available to eligible employees on Day 1.
** Union employees are not eligible for a 401k plan, but may be eligible to join pension plans negotiated by their local union.

​The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.

Utility Asset Management is a division of Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG), a Davey company. Davey has been employee-owned since 1979. Our engineering, field services, inspection, and construction teams help keep the world connected, supporting the infrastructure of our electric utility and communications partners. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our people, offering industry-leading training, technology, and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.

Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at Recruiting@davey.com.

Employment Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Full Time 
Travel Expectations: Up to 100%


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