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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Woonsocket, RI

Riley Brothers

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Operator - Backhoe Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber ...

Riley Brothers

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Operator - Backhoe Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber ...

Riley Brothers, Inc.

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Operator - Backhoe Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber ...

Peak Utility Services Group

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

Operator - Backhoe Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction ... digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber ...

Riley Brothers

Laborer - Electric

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Roles and Responsibilities: * Assist crew leader in construction/ reconstruction and maintenance work. * Assist equipment operators, swamping, hand digging, locating underground obstructions. * Work ...

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All JobsDigging Equipment Operator JobsDigging Equipment Operator Jobs in Woonsocket, RI

Digging Equipment Operator information

See Woonsocket, RI salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in Woonsocket, RI is $23.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $26.25 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 Woonsocket, RI?

For Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Woonsocket, RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Woonsocket, RI look for?

The top searched job categories for Digging Equipment Operator jobs in Woonsocket, RI are:

What cities near Woonsocket, RI are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Woonsocket, RI with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:

Digging Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in Woonsocket, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,371 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Loader Operator - Asphalt Plant

Riley Brothers

Bellingham, MA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries. We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, 5 Star Electric, Superior Hydrovac and Superior Pipeline Services.
Position Title: Operator - Loader
Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.
Classification: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Essential Functions:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Operates, maneuvers, and navigates heavy equipment (backhoes, loaders, etc) at our asphalt plant in Bellingham
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs
  • Exposes underground utilities manually
  • Conducts post-job quality checks
  • Cleans, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork
  • Communicates with supervisor daily to turn in required paperwork
  • Perform other tasks as required

Success Factors:
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills

Experience and Education:
  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in operating a loader
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid State of Residence Driver's License is required within two weeks of employment.
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Notes:
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
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.

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