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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Edmond, OK · 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 ...

E.K. Services, Inc.

Equipment Operator

New Cumberland, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operators must be comfortable digging around multiple existing utilities for installation of new ... Equipment Operators Duties and Responsibilities: * Ensures company equipment is maintained and in ...

B & I Contractors, Inc

Equipment Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Ensures safe and proper digging around all above and underground utilities. * Will be required to work with crew members when operating duties are not assigned. Qualifications * This position ...

E.K. Services, Inc.

Equipment Operator

New Cumberland, PA · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Operators must be comfortable digging around multiple existing utilities for installation of new ... Equipment Operators Duties and Responsibilities: * Ensures company equipment is maintained and in ...

Coral Hospitality

Equipment Operator

Cordele, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Golf Course Equipment Operator - Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf ... Performing manual labor: * digging trenches, laying sod, spreading pine mulch, etc. * Other ...

Apex Underground

Equipment Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

$25 - $43/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate various machinery to complete tasks such as digging, grading, backfilling, and material transport. Your precision and attention to detail will ...

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 ...

Ace Avant

Equipment Operator

High Point, NC · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

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$14

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How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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 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 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
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:
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
Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,524 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Edmond, OK • On-site

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. (Elliot).
Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating and industrial/commercial services.
Job Description
The Equipment Operator will be responsible for ditching of new house services, sub-division services, and large trench projects to the customer's satisfaction. 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, electric equipment.
Qualifications
  • Experience with excavators of all sizes, as well as with crossing/digging across utilities
  • Ability to effectively lead a crew
  • Willing to travel when necessary
  • Must have, or be eligible to obtain, a Class A CDL

Benefits/Culture
Today, we are listed among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our customers' confidence in us; the loyalty, hard work and performance of our people; and the traditions with which Mr. Davis H. Elliot began the company in 1946. We understand that having the best team requires people being treated like family. Some of the benefits we offer our team includes:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance w/ additional Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program
  • State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program
  • Paid Vacation
  • Servant Leadership Training
  • Uniforms and PPE provided

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: 859-263-5148 x1504Email: clester@dhec.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, click HERE
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

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