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Digger Derrick Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Asplundh

Derrick Digger/Crane Operator

Ocala, FL · On-site

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 ...

Asplundh

Derrick Digger/Crane Operator

Groveland, FL · On-site

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 ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

The Operator will be responsible for operating various heavy equipment and machinery on a ... Duties: - Operate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Salina, KS · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

The Operator will be responsible for operating various heavy equipment and machinery on a ... Duties: - Operate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

O perate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other construction vehicles, as required. * P erform routine maintenance tasks, such as inspecting and cleaning ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Salina, KS

$26 - $30/hr

O perate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other construction vehicles, as required. * P erform routine maintenance tasks, such as inspecting and cleaning ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

The Operator will be responsible for operating various heavy equipment and machinery on a ... Duties: - Operate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Pole Operator

Topeka, KS

$26 - $30/hr

O perate digger derrick, heavy equipment, including backhoes, water trucks, and other construction vehicles, as required. * P erform routine maintenance tasks, such as inspecting and cleaning ...

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All JobsDigger Derrick Operator Jobs

Digger Derrick Operator information

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$11

$27

$35

How much do digger derrick operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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 the highest paid crane operator?

The highest paid crane operators are often those who specialize in large, complex equipment such as tower cranes or specialized heavy-lift cranes, with salaries reaching over $100,000 annually. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or regions can significantly increase earnings for crane operators, including those operating digger derricks and other specialized machinery.

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.

What job makes $1,000,000 a year?

Digger Derrick Operators typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high earnings are usually associated with top executives, successful entrepreneurs, or specialized professionals in fields like finance or technology. In rare cases, highly experienced or business-owning operators in niche industries may reach high income levels, but this is uncommon for standard roles.

How to become a Derrick operator?

To become a Digger Derrick Operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or apprenticeships to learn operating heavy equipment. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) is often required, and operators must have good physical health and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

How much does a Derrick operator make?

Digger Derrick Operators typically earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training and safety certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in industries like construction and utility services.
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Digger Derrick Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digger Derrick Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 84% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,492 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Derrick Digger/Crane Operator

Derrick Digger/Crane Operator

Asplundh

Ocala, FL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Asplundh Tree Expert rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 241 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

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 leading a crew of 2-3 who will be assisting in placing and/or removing temporary and permanent light poles. Benefits:
  • Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) starting Day 1
  • Company-sponsored Retirement Plan
  • Life, long-term/short-term disability insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • PTO
  • Paid Holidays
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Lift and move materials, machines, or products to install traffic signal lighting.
  • Completing thorough load checks before leaving for job sites.
  • Ensure all delivery materials are firmly secured, and all parts of truck comply with all Federal, State, and Local regulations.
  • Assist in on-site work duties
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Can work safely and efficiently within designated job parameters.
  • Can accurately read plans and specifications
  • Comfortable working outside in various climates
Education & Experience:
  • NCCCO certified, preferred.
  • Prior experience in the electrical field preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
Pre-Screen:
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to subject and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • A valid driver's license, Commercial driver's license (CDL) class "A", preferred. 
  Travel Requirements:
  • Potential travel is required for temporary backup needs at other office locations.
Safety: Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods of time, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally. Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (less than 10%): climbing poles
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): sitting, kneeling, crawling, climbing ladders, climbing stairs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): stooping, squatting, body-twisting, manual dexterity, climbing on/off truck, gripping, reading.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, walking, sense of touch, speaking clearly, seeing distant, lifting over 10 lbs to 50 lbs., seeing, reaching, range of motion, hearing-speech range, depth perception, color vision, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, balancing, lifting up to 10 lbs., lifting up to 50 lbs.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator at 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees. An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees’ health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

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