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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Destructable, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Mart, TX · 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 ...

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Site Acquisitions, LLC

Equipment Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Examples; unloading and loading materials, digging, raking, mixes and pours concrete, work with ... Operating machinery safely and effectively to reach goals. * Assist in building structures for ...

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Dycom Industries, Inc.

Equipment Operator

New Richmond, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

The Operator is expected to attend and participate in all safety meetings and training. * The ... Knowledge and understanding of support equipment operation, digging equipment, vacuum-units, reel ...

Ace Avant

Equipment Operator

High Point, NC

$17 - $23.25/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Contractors turn to Ace Avant for the coveted combination of quality ... Precision Digging, be able to hold grade on footing and size. * Operate all heavy equipment in a ...

SAI Group

Equipment Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Examples; unloading and loading materials, digging, raking, mixes and pours concrete, work with ... Operating machinery safely and effectively to reach goals. * Assist in building structures for ...

MGE Underground, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Porterville, CA · On-site

$50 - $52/hr

... Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery ... Consult with the Foreman prior to digging to verify any unidentified or unclear utility markings.

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Hillman, MI · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Equipment Operator - Dirt Team Elmer's seeks to fill a position for a skilled equipment operator ... Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities, limitations, and efficient and safe ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

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$14

$24

$34

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 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 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 highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized machinery such as crane or heavy excavator operators, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries like oil and gas or large-scale construction. These roles can earn six-figure salaries, particularly in regions with a high cost of living or complex projects.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including digging equipment operators, can earn high wages depending on experience, specialization, and location. The highest-paid operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in industries like oil and gas or construction, with annual salaries reaching over $70,000 to $100,000 or more. Advanced certifications and operating complex machinery can increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Digging Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay 700 a day?

For a Digging Equipment Operator, high daily pay of around $700 is typically associated with experienced professionals working in construction, excavation, or heavy civil projects, often requiring specialized skills, certifications, and working in demanding environments. Such pay rates are common for unionized or highly skilled operators with extensive experience and often involve overtime or long shifts.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand construction or industrial environments.

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 digging equipment operators?

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.
More about Digging Equipment Operator jobs
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What states have the most Digging Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Digging Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Digging Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Digging Equipment Operator jobs are:
Digging Equipment Operator jobs near you
Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator

Tradesmen International, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Equipment Operators for projects located in or around Washington, DC. This is a first shift opportunity and the pay range is $28-$32/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Equipment Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career! 

Job Scope:    

  • Operating Mini EX 
  • Digging clean precise trench lines
  • Managing excess soil removed from trench
  • Refilling trench after work is preformed 
  • Maintaining grading

Preferred:

  • 7B certification

Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.

Our comprehensive benefits include:

  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program – earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability

“Be Safe” from fraud!  Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other “up front”  costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.

Click here to visit Tradesmen’s full website.


US-DC-WASHINGTON

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