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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Albertville, MN · On-site

$45.61/hr

Perform tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, hauling, loading/unloading materials, and site ... Individuals must have experience with heavy equipment operating safely and efficiently. The ...

JCS

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

Operate backhoes, mini excavators, or locating equipment safely and efficiently * Assist with ... Perform hand digging and general labor as needed * Follow all company and OSHA safety procedures

C S McCrossan, Inc.

Operator

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$30.84 - $52.81/hr

Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: cranes ... Work with line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting materials, tools, equipment, and any ...

General Equipment

Tool Maker

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$26.75 - $34.75/hr

... digging equipment available to the construction marketplace, most complete line of confined space ... Willingness to become a licensed forklift operator. SKILLS & ABILITIES: * Capable of working ...

Aerotek

Front End Loader Operator

Elk River, MN · On-site

$28/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator/Laborer This role supports a busy concrete and aggregate operation by ... Use hand and power tools for tasks such as digging, breaking up concrete, and general labor ...

Aerotek

General Laborer

Elk River, MN

$28/hr

... operating heavy equipment such as a front-end loader, skid steer, excavator, backhoe, or similar equipment preferred. * Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, digging ...

JCS

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN

$18 - $25/hr

Operate backhoes, mini excavators, or locating equipment safely and efficiently * Assist with ... Perform hand digging and general labor as needed * Follow all company and OSHA safety procedures

Designing Earth Contracting, Inc.

Laborer

East Bethel, MN · On-site

$47.50 - $55/hr

Perform physical labor on construction sites including digging, lifting, carrying materials, and ... Follow directions from foremen, equipment operators, and other supervisors. * Maintain a clean and ...

McGough Construction

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$46.25 - $47.24/hr

Safely maneuver equipment in tight work zones and around other crew members. * Monitor trench ... Familiarity with safe digging practices, including locating existing utilities (One Call/811 ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

What are some common challenges faced by Digging Equipment Operators on construction sites?

Digging Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven job sites, and maintaining equipment performance under demanding circumstances. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure safety and project efficiency. Operators must also stay vigilant about underground utilities and adapt quickly to changes in site plans, making flexibility and attention to detail essential for success in this role.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized machinery such as crane or heavy excavator operators, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries like oil and gas or large-scale construction. These roles can earn six-figure salaries, particularly in regions with a high cost of living or complex projects.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including digging equipment operators, can earn high wages depending on experience, specialization, and location. The highest-paid operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in industries like oil and gas or construction, with annual salaries reaching over $70,000 to $100,000 or more. Advanced certifications and operating complex machinery can increase earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Digging Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of safety protocols, and experience operating heavy machinery, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as backhoes, excavators, and trenchers, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training, are commonly required. Attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and effective communication enhance performance and safety on the job site. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and accurate excavation work, minimizing risks and project delays.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

For a Digging Equipment Operator, high daily pay of around $700 is typically associated with experienced professionals working in construction, excavation, or heavy civil projects, often requiring specialized skills, certifications, and working in demanding environments. Such pay rates are common for unionized or highly skilled operators with extensive experience and often involve overtime or long shifts.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand construction or industrial environments.

What is the difference between Digging Equipment Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDigging Equipment OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often required, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specific excavator certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, demolition, landscaping
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, mining firms, utility contractorsConstruction firms, excavation services, landscaping companies

Both roles involve operating heavy machinery for digging tasks, often requiring similar certifications and working in construction or excavation environments. The term "Excavator Operator" specifically refers to operating excavators, while "Digging Equipment Operator" can encompass a broader range of machinery. However, in many cases, these titles are used interchangeably, with the primary focus on excavation work.

What are digging equipment operators?

Digging equipment operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and other equipment used for digging and earthmoving tasks. They work on construction sites, road projects, utility installations, and other infrastructure projects, ensuring that trenches, foundations, and holes are dug safely and accurately according to project specifications. These operators are trained to handle complex machinery, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and equipment damage.
What are popular job titles related to Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:
Digging Equipment Operator jobs near you
Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Albertville, MN • On-site

$45.61/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Fehn Companies is a family owned and operated, gravel and excavation company established over 50 years ago. Fehn's office is located in Albertville, Minnesota and they service the Twin Cities Metro area. Fehn Companies is dedicated to a culture of safety and operates under the company's core values while completing projects for clients in the community.
Position Description
Summary
Skilled and safety-focused Equipment Operator with hands-on experience operating a variety of heavy machinery. Proven ability to perform excavation, grading, trenching, and material handling tasks efficiently and accurately. Adept at reading site plans and following safety protocols to support construction and utility projects. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining equipment in top working condition. Works well independently and as part of a team in fast-paced environments.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary from time to time.
1. Equipment Operation
  • Operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, graders, loaders, backhoes, scrapers, and haul trucks safely and efficiently.
  • Perform tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, hauling, loading/unloading materials, and site clearing.

2. Site Preparation and Execution
  • Follow site plans, grade stakes, and verbal instructions to complete precise work on construction or mining sites.
  • Assist with road building, excavation, foundation preparation, and material movement.

3. Equipment Inspection and Maintenance
  • Conduct pre-operational checks and inspections to ensure the equipment is in safe working condition.
  • Report malfunctions or safety concerns immediately and perform basic maintenance (greasing, fluid checks, cleaning).

4. Communication and Coordination
  • Work closely with supervisors, ground crew, and other operators to coordinate activities and maintain jobsite efficiency.
  • Use radios or hand signals to communicate clearly and safely during operations.

5. Documentation and Reporting
  • Complete equipment logs, inspection forms, and production reports as required.
  • Track fuel use, machine hours, and any incidents or delays.

The pay range for this position is based on the 49-union wage scale, ranging from Apprentice level up to $45.61 per hour.
Position Requirements
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Individuals must have experience with heavy equipment operating safely and efficiently. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The ability to work in a team-centered atmosphere and engaged in the work that is being performed.
  • The ability to sit or stand for long periods of time while operating.
  • The ability to do simple math and an understanding of grades on the site.
  • The ability to read a set of plans and use the information to perform the work.
  • The ability to recognize different sights, sounds and smells that may signal an issue with the equipment.

Safety
  • This is a safety sensitive position
  • Follow Fehn Companies AWAIR program
  • Adhere to all safety protocols, including PPE use, equipment lockout/tagout procedures, and hazard awareness.
  • Follow site-specific safety rules and environmental regulations (e.g., MSHA, OSHA, company policies).

Education and/or Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 1 year of heavy equipment schooling or 3+ years of operating experience.

Language Skills
An individual must be able to effectively resolve problems by often discussing matters with management and other personnel on site.
Reasoning Ability
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions in written or oral form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
An individual must be able to meet the physical demands of the job including climbing steps or ladders, bending, stooping, twisting, turning and sitting for long periods of time. In addition, individuals must be able to reach above shoulders and lift a minimum of 70 pounds.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, outdoor weather conditions, loud noises, and significant vibration.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Fehn Companies, Inc. prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee on the grounds of sex, race, color, age, religion, creed, national origin, marital status, status concerning public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. This policy extends to recruiting and hiring working conditions, training programs, advancements, promotions, compensation, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

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