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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$23.23 - $31.27/hr

Spotter for equipment operators, trucks * Level earth to fine grade specifications * Build forms ... heavy lifting, digging, raking, and constant standing * Hours worked will be weather dependent ...

This may include keeping the worksite clean through the collection of trash, operating power tools ... Transport materials and equipment from one location to another * Operate power tools and/or ...

This may include keeping the worksite clean through the collection of trash, operating power tools ... Transport materials and equipment from one location to another * Operate power tools and/or ...

Landscape Laborer

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

This may include keeping the worksite clean through the collection of trash, operating power tools ... materials and equipment from one location to another Operate power tools and/or industrial ...

This may include keeping the worksite clean through the collection of trash, operating power tools ... Transport materials and equipment from one location to another * Operate power tools and/or ...

Landscape Laborer

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

This may include keeping the worksite clean through the collection of trash, operating power tools ... materials and equipment from one location to another Operate power tools and/or industrial ...

When most people drive by a jobsite they see a group of workers digging a trench. Do you instead ... mastery operating a mini-excavator and all other equipment, hold a Class A Commercial Driver ...

Utility Worker I or II

Dallas, OR · On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

Locates City owned/operated underground utility lines and facilities including wastewater ... Ensures the proper maintenance of equipment and tools by cleaning and checking equipment and tools ...

Utility Worker I or II

Dallas, OR · On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

Locates City owned/operated underground utility lines and facilities including wastewater ... Ensures the proper maintenance of equipment and tools by cleaning and checking equipment and tools ...

... digging for the placement of drop facilities to customer premise, streets and right of way and ... Clean, maintain, stock, and secure assigned vehicle and equipment. * Perform other duties as ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

What is a digging equipment operator?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a digging equipment operator?

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 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 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 cities in Oregon are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

$23.23 - $31.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Tapani Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
Since starting in 1983, Tapani has evolved from a single-person operation to a family-led legacy, maintaining a fun and friendly environment from the beginning. With a large team across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, we now cover five diverse market sectors: Civil Site Development, Buildings, Environmental, Transportation, and Utility Infrastructure. The consistent dedication to our core values has helped us grow, creating more opportunities for our current team and the need for new teammates.
Take a look what our current employees say about working for Tapani: Tapani Careers
Job Purpose and Summary
The Laborer is responsible for performing the day to day activities of the onsite project in accordance to the Foreman's direction and schedule.
Responsibility
  • Responsible for field assignments
  • Communicate with Foreman to understand the plan for the day
  • Ensure all tools needed for the days' work are ready and available
  • Duties can include:
    • Grade layout and grade checking
    • Spotter for equipment operators, trucks
    • Level earth to fine grade specifications
    • Build forms
    • Install pipe, manholes, catch basins
    • Manual preparation and clean-up of site
    • Shovel, rake, sweep
    • Concrete work
    • Painting and sealing
    • Run plate whackers and jumping jacks
    • Assisting in building demo and clean up
    • Assist operator in keeping equipment tracks clean
    • Assist other craft workers
    • Assist with all tasks to ensure a quality project by Tapani Inc
  • Responsible for maintenance of the job site
    • Install, maintain erosion control
    • Ensure all small tools and equipment are utilized correctly, maintained and kept clean on job site
    • Clean up job site at end of every shift
  • Responsible for Site Safety
    • Ensure OSHA standards are personally adhered to
    • Understand the safety risk with each task and ensure proper safety methods are adhered to
    • Ensure all safety training is current
  • Responsible for upholding the Integrity of Tapani Inc
    • Ensure an atmosphere of team work and utilization of each crew members abilities
    • Maintain efficiency and quality throughout the project
  • Oral Communication - Listens and gets clarification.
  • Consistently at work and on time
  • Always seek ways to learn and grow personally and professionally
  • Work Ethic - works hard, gives 100%

Job Requirements and Qualifications
  • High school education or equivalent
  • Be able to listen and follow direction of supervisor
  • Know and recognize basic hand tools (ie- spade shovels, flat shovels, rock rakes)
  • Must be aware of surroundings of self and coworkers
  • Lift heavy loads and navigate construction job site terrain
  • Must be able to hand dig and backfill holes
  • Hand eye coordination and balance. Physical dexterity
  • Must be reliable and dependable
  • Maintain the Tapani Inc culture: work with the best interest of Tapani Inc first, maintain a positive attitude, maintain a team atmosphere

Working Environment
  • Working conditions for this position will be on project site, locally and possibly out of town
  • Employee must be physically able to perform job duties which may include but not limited to heavy lifting, digging, raking, and constant standing
  • Hours worked will be weather dependent along with schedule requirements. Summer time typically is longer hours and winter typically is shorter hours due to daylight
  • Work may require weekend work when project demands

Compensation and Benefits
  • Pay: $23.23 - $31.27 per hour (based on qualifications and experience)
  • Comprehensive Medical Insurance plans with low to $0 monthly premiums
  • Additional voluntary insurance options include: Dental, Vision, and a wide variety of Supplemental insurances.
  • Flexible Paid Time Off and Sick Time
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) options with up to 4% employer match
  • See the full list of benefits here

What Tapani Inc. employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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