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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STONE RIDGE CONTRACTING, LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Boardman, OR · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Civil Construction Equipment Operator: 3+ years Division/Department: Heavy Civil Construction ... This position will require physical labor and includes lifting, pulling, digging, cleaning work ...

STONE RIDGE CONTRACTING, LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Civil Construction Equipment Operator: 3+ years Division/Department: Heavy Civil Construction ... This position will require physical labor and includes lifting, pulling, digging, cleaning work ...

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 ...

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Traverse City, 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 ...

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

Petoskey, MI

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 ...

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 ...

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Petoskey, 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 ...

HRI, Inc.

Equipment Operator

State College, PA

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Equipment Operator ID: 1014 Location: State College, PA Department: Construction More about this ... Perform manual labor such as digging or shoveling, assisting with placement of pipe and material ...

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Traverse City, 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 ...

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Hillman, MI · On-site

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 ...

Team Elmer's

Equipment Operator - Dirt

Petoskey, 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 ...

Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Kershaw, South Carolina, USA ... Execute tasks such as grading, digging, loading, and transporting materials as per project ...

Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Kershaw, South Carolina, USA ... Execute tasks such as grading, digging, loading, and transporting materials as per project ...

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All JobsDigging Equipment Operator Jobs

Digging Equipment Operator information

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$14

$24

$34

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.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

STONE RIDGE CONTRACTING, LLC

Boardman, OR • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Civil Construction Equipment Operator: 3+ years


Division/Department: Heavy Civil Construction


Reports to: Foreman/Superintendent


Job Classification: Hourly


Stone Ridge Contracting, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Heavy Civil Equipment Operators will work under direct supervision of the jobsite foreman, superintendent, and project manager. The equipment operator is responsible for tasks involving the operation of an excavator, dozer, haul truck, water truck, etc. This position will require physical labor and includes lifting, pulling, digging, cleaning work sites, and maintaining and cleaning equipment and tools. All candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, lift 50 lbs., and have a strong commitment to safety. Typical work schedule is 50-60 hours per week.


Specific Duties Responsibilities & Requirements


•Adhere to strict safety policies and procedures at all times

•Perform related duties and responsibilities as required by the supervisor

•Wear all company required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

•Use tools in a safe manner to minimize the risk of injury and property damage

•Perform daily equipment/tool inspections checks. Ensure that tools are clean, properly shut down, and stored at the end of the shift

•Maintain cleanliness at the job site

•Complete all assigned tasks in a timely and efficient manner

•Prepare new construction sites by digging, moving dirt, or compacting space

•High school degree or equivalent educational experience; vocational school or trade apprenticeships a plus

•OSHA 10/30 preferred, but not required

•Must be 18 years of age

•Positive attitude and work ethic

•Able to work independently or as an active member of a team

•Excellent interpersonal skills and communication with all levels of management


Working Environment and Conditions


This position requires working outdoors. While performing the duties of this job the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is regularly exposed to wind, sun, rain, and cold weather.


Essential Job Functions

•Lift heavy objects, walk and stand for long periods of time

•Perform strenuous physical labor under adverse field conditions

•The employee will lift, push, pull, and carry objects using abdominal and lower back muscles

•Requires good manual dexterity and multi-limbed coordination

Company Description

Stone Ridge Contracting provides Heavy/Civil Construction services throughout the United States.