ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

MasTec Utility Services

UGE Operator

NC · On-site

Inspect work area to ensure it has been staked/located prior to digging. * Work with maintenance crew or assist as laborer when not operating equipment. * Dig around all live utilities, both ...

EC Source

UGE Operator

NC · On-site

Inspect work area to ensure it has been staked/located prior to digging. * Work with maintenance crew or assist as laborer when not operating equipment. * Dig around all live utilities, both ...

EC Source

UGE Operator

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

Inspect work area to ensure it has been staked/located prior to digging. * Work with maintenance crew or assist as laborer when not operating equipment. * Dig around all live utilities, both ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDigging Equipment Operator JobsDigging Equipment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Digging Equipment Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$24

$33

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in Raleigh, NC is $24.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:
Digging Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,086 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

UGE Operator

MasTec Utility Services

NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.
MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We're always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.
MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.
Job Summary
The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for customers. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department.
Responsibilities
  • Operate jobsite equipment safely, such mobile cranes, bulldozers, angle dozers, front end loaders, backhoes, excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment.
  • Perform service, safety checks, and minor repairs on machines, check oil and fluids.
  • Inspect work area to ensure it has been staked/located prior to digging.
  • Work with maintenance crew or assist as laborer when not operating equipment.
  • Dig around all live utilities, both underground and overhead.
  • Train, guide, or oversee work of lower graded operators and laborers when needed
  • Comply with proper safety standards/procedures and work practices according to MasTec or the customer, whichever standard is higher.
  • Load trucks in a safe and accident-free manner.
  • Work to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively to provide quality seamless customer service with quality timeliness.
  • Perform other duties as required and/or assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred
  • 2 or more years of experience.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.
  • CDL Class A driver's license.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Apply