Transporting, operating, and servicing heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments ... Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools * Follow DOT regulations ...
Transporting, operating, and servicing heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments ... Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools * Follow DOT regulations ...
Digging Equipment Operator information
See Mitchell, NE salary details
$15.41 - $17.31
5% of jobs
$17.31 - $19.22
7% of jobs
$19.22 - $21.12
7% of jobs
$22.08 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$21.12 - $23.03
10% of jobs
$23.03 - $24.94
15% of jobs
The median wage is $25.44 / hr.
$24.94 - $26.84
20% of jobs
$28.13 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$26.84 - $28.75
15% of jobs
$28.75 - $30.65
11% of jobs
$30.65 - $32.56
5% of jobs
$32.56 - $34.46
2% of jobs
$34.46 - $36.37
2% of jobs
$15
$26
$36
How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in Mitchell, NE is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $28.80 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?
| Aspect | Digging Equipment Operator | Excavator Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Commercial driver's license (CDL) often required, OSHA safety training | OSHA safety training, sometimes specific excavator certifications |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, mining, infrastructure projects | Construction sites, demolition, landscaping |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Construction companies, mining firms, utility contractors | Construction 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 near Mitchell, NE are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?
Cities near Mitchell, NE with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 23 days ago
Job description
Who We Are:
R.J. Corman Railroad Services is a full-service railroad construction, maintenance-of-way and emergency response company with 17 divisions strategically located across the nation.
What You'll Do:
Why Work for R.J. Corman?
What You'll Need:
Benefits:
R.J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits. R.J. Corman offers the following benefits:
Full-Time Team Members:
All Team Members:
R.J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
R.J. Corman Railroad Services is a full-service railroad construction, maintenance-of-way and emergency response company with 17 divisions strategically located across the nation.
What You'll Do:
- Transporting, operating, and servicing heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments
- Material handling of heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
- Practice safe working habits and ensure proper PPE is being used
- Safely drive, operate, and maintain CDL-A required vehicles and equipment
- Maintenance, cleaning, and set-up of equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding.
- Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools
- Follow DOT regulations, ensuring proper permits and driving regulations are followed
- Be comfortable working outside in all weather conditions
- Communicate with team and supervisor throughout the job process
- Other duties as assigned
Why Work for R.J. Corman?
- Operate heavy or specialized equipment (i.e. Sideboom, Track Loader, Excavator, Vac Truck, Grapple Truck, etc.)
- Guaranteed 40 hours per week with high potential for overtime
- Hotel and travel expenses paid for
- Company provided PPE
- On the job training provided and advancement opportunities
What You'll Need:
- Ability to work on call 24/7 and travel frequently to job sites
- Must live within 45 minutes of the R. J. Corman shop
- Must pass background, drug screen, and physical capacity test
- Valid CDL-A with no restrictions with manual endorsement and DOT medical card highly preferred.
- Lifting 100 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable with working at heights over 25 feet on railroad cars; on bridges, over water, or in water.
- Love working outside!
Benefits:
R.J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits. R.J. Corman offers the following benefits:
Full-Time Team Members:
- Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
- Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
- PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
- 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
- Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
- Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
- Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
- Voluntary Accident Insurance
- FSA and HSA Options
- 401K Employer Match
- Paid Maternity Leave
- Group Life Insurance
All Team Members:
- 401K Retirement Savings Plan
- Referral Bonuses
- Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
- Employee Assistance Program
- Annual Boot Voucher
- Company Provided PPE
- Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance
R.J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.