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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Stillwater, OK ยท On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Edmond, OK ยท On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Stillwater, OK ยท On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Fort Smith, AR ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Lawton, OK ยท On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Edmond, OK ยท On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Harpers Ferry, WV

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Join Amrize as a Equipment Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your ... Perform excavation, digging, loading, and material handling activities in accordance with ...

Equipment Operator

Ardmore, OK ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in ...

Equipment Operator

Harpers Ferry, WV ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Join Amrize as a Equipment Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your ... Perform excavation, digging, loading, and material handling activities in accordance with ...

Equipment Operator

Crown Point, IN ยท On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Role Description The Equipment Operator is a full-time, on-site role based in Crown Point, IN. This ... Experience with Excavation work, including trenching, grading, and digging to specified depths and ...

Equipment Operator

Mart, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Perform tasks such as digging, transporting materials, and site preparation. * Safely maneuver ... equipment are stored properly after use. Requirements: * Proven experience operating heavy ...

Showing results 21-40

Digging Equipment Operator information

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$14

$24

$34

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in the United States is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 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.

More about Digging Equipment Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Digging Equipment Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,524 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Fayetteville, NC โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About Us

Carolina Power and Signalization, a Quanta Services Inc. company, is headquartered in Fayetteville, NC. Since its founding in 2008, it has rapidly become the leading utility company in the Carolinas. Our success is driven by our employees, whose dedication and expertise set the standard for excellence in every project we undertake. We attract top-tier talent committed to achieving exceptional results. At Carolina Power and Signalization, we take on the most challenging and complex projects, hiring individuals who thrive in demanding and dynamic environments.

About this Role

The Equipment Operator for Carolina Power & Signalization will be responsible for the safe transportation of materials and equipment. Equipment Operators will load, and unload equipment and material as needed. This position will also, safely, and skillfully operate and maintain construction equipment (cable plows, backhoe, mini excavator, skid steer, rock saw, and other utility construction equipment). This position will be responsible for the safe transportation of materials and equipment.

What You'll Do

Responsibilities:

  • Possess a valid CDL class A (not required, premium pay included if CDL is held or obtained)
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • Clean driving record (no more than 2 tickets in the last 5 years)
  • Strong focus on quality and safety
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Our Equipment Operators work all aspects of job, you may be hand digging trenches if machinery isn't able to reach a specific area needing to be trenched/dug.

What You'll Bring

Experience:

  • Possess a valid CDL class A (not required, premium pay included if CDL is held or obtained)
  • Experience operating heavy equipment and machinery.
  • Clean driving record (no more than 2 tickets in the last 5 years)
  • Strong focus on quality and safety
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Our Equipment Operators work all aspects of job, you may be hand digging trenches if machinery isn't able to reach a specific area needing to be trenched/dug.

What You'll Get

As a Quanta Services employee, you'll be offered a wide range of benefits to fit your needs.

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with company match (Traditional & Roth available)
  • Paid Holidays and PTO
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Additional Voluntary benefits available
  • Employee Discounts

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.