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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

ARS

Excavation Helper/ Laborer

Pacific, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Breaks concrete to prepare area for digging * Digs for sewer, water and gas line repair and new ... Requires heavy equipment operator skills and ability to dig with a shovel. A valid driver's license ...

ARS-Rescue Rooter

Excavation Helper/ Laborer

Pacific, WA

$17.50 - $22/hr

Breaks concrete to prepare area for digging * Digs for sewer, water and gas line repair and new ... Requires heavy equipment operator skills and ability to dig with a shovel. A valid driver's license ...

Rescue Rooter

Excavation Helper/ Laborer

Pacific, WA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Breaks concrete to prepare area for digging * Digs for sewer, water and gas line repair and new ... Requires heavy equipment operator skills and ability to dig with a shovel. A valid driver's license ...

SQUAN

Laborer

Kent, WA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Perform basic construction tasks such as digging, trenching, concrete work, and site restoration ... Experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, bucket truck) * Knowledge of RF (radio ...

Squan Construction Services

Laborer

Kent, WA

$35 - $40/hr

Perform basic construction tasks such as digging, trenching, concrete work, and site restoration ... Experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, bucket truck) * Knowledge of RF (radio ...

ITG Communications

Groundhand

Kent, WA · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Set up and maintain safety perimeters and traffic control measures. * Assist with digging ... Operating vehicles and equipment safely * Maintaining valid certifications and licenses as required

All JobsDigging Equipment Operator JobsDigging Equipment Operator Jobs in Kent, WA

Digging Equipment Operator information

See Kent, WA salary details

$16

$27

$39

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in Kent, WA is $27.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.13 and $30.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Kent, WA?

For Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Kent, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Kent, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Kent, WA are:

What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:

Digging Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,165 per year, or $28 per hour.

Civil Heavy Equipment Operator

A-ADVANCED SEPTIC SERVICES INC

Auburn, WA

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Civil Construction Heavy Equipment OperatorCompany: A Advanced Septic & Construction Services
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $30.00–$35.00 per hour (DOE)Position Summary

A Advanced Septic & Construction Services is seeking an experienced Civil Construction Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This hands-on position requires operating excavators, backhoes, front loaders, and skid steers while also assisting with labor duties on the ground. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, and willing to work wherever needed to complete quality projects.

Responsibilities
  • Operate excavators, backhoes, front loaders, and skid steers safely and efficiently.
  • Excavate for septic systems, utilities, and site development projects.
  • Install and lay pipe according to project specifications.
  • Perform topman duties, including directing excavation and maintaining trench safety.
  • Assist with shoveling, grading, backfilling, and site cleanup.
  • Load and unload materials and equipment.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA guidelines.
  • Work collaboratively with the crew to complete projects on schedule.
Requirements
  • Experience operating heavy equipment in a construction environment
  • Ability to perform physically demanding labor, including lifting, shoveling, digging, and working outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to job site safety
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Must successfully pass a pre-employment background check
  • Must participate in random drug screening
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with excavation, underground utilities, or septic installation
  • CDL preferred
Benefits Package Includes:
  • Company Paid Medical for Employees ($25.00 bi-weekly employee contribution, available after 3 months)
  • Dental Insurance – Supplemental Available (After 3 months)
  • Vision Insurance – Supplemental Available (After 3 months)
  • Company Paid $25,000 Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance Options Available (Short & Long Term Disability, Life, AD&D, and more)
  • 401K - 4% Company Match
  • Paid Sick Leave - Accrues at 1 hour for every 40 hours worked, eligible to use after 90 days
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Plans - 40 hours PTO after 1 year and tiered based upon tier
  • Pet Insurance – Supplemental Available through United Healthcare
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • 6 Paid Holidays (After 6 months of employment)
  • As a token of our gratitude, Veterans and Active Military Members Receive Veterans Day as an Additional Paid Holiday (After 6 months of employment)
Schedule:
  • Full-Time
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed

If you're an experienced heavy equipment operator who enjoys being part of a hardworking crew and isn't afraid to jump in and help with labor tasks, we'd love to hear from you.

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