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Ditch Digging Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Pipelayer

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

... digging. Must have a full range of body movements including use of hands and legs. Must have the ... Safely work in a ditch and trench box. * Prepare pipe, fittings and manholes for installation and ...

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Ability to safely perform excavation/digging tasks within a trench box at depths of 5' - 20' * Proficient in sloping and benching techniques for ditch excavation * High school diploma or general ...

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Ability to safely perform excavation/digging tasks within a trench box at depths of 5' - 20' * Proficient in sloping and benching techniques for ditch excavation * High school diploma or general ...

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Ability to safely perform excavation/digging tasks within a trench box at depths of 5' - 20' * Proficient in sloping and benching techniques for ditch excavation * High school diploma or general ...

Ditch Digging information

What is ditch digging?

A ditch digging job involves manually or mechanically excavating trenches for various purposes, such as drainage, utility installation, or construction projects. Workers use tools like shovels, pickaxes, or machinery to dig, shape, and clear ditches according to project specifications. The job requires physical stamina, as it often involves heavy labor in outdoor conditions. Safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and following guidelines, are essential to prevent injuries. Experienced ditch diggers may also assist in grading or reinforcing trenches to ensure stability and proper functionality.

What skills and qualifications are needed for ditch digging?

To thrive in ditch digging, you need physical stamina, strength, familiarity with manual labor, and experience with basic hand tools like shovels and pickaxes. Knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes operation of small machinery such as trenchers or backhoes, may also be required. Attention to detail, reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are valuable soft skills in this physically demanding environment. These competencies help ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to the required specifications, minimizing risks and meeting project deadlines.

What challenges do ditch diggers face on the job?

Ditch digging often involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions and on different types of terrain, which can be physically demanding and requires constant awareness of safety hazards. You may encounter unexpected obstacles underground such as rocks, roots, or utility lines, requiring adaptability and problem-solving. Teamwork is essential, as you will often coordinate with other laborers, supervisors, and equipment operators to maintain steady progress and ensure job site safety. Maintaining a consistent pace while managing fatigue is important for both personal wellbeing and project efficiency.

How much does a ditch digger get paid?

Ditch diggers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and union membership. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $25,000 to $40,000. Skills in operating excavation tools and physical endurance are important for this role.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Ditch Digging jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Ditch Digging job openings:

Infographic showing various Ditch Digging job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Pipelayer

Hilliard, OH • On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Experienced Pipelayer Wanted Columbus Ohio. 2 Years Minimum. Experienced laying Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer, and Waterline. Excellent Pay and Benefits. Drug Free Workplace. Equal Opportunity Employer.
John Eramo amp; Sons Inc
Pipe Layer
Job Description
The basic function of the Pipe Layer is to carefully install various types of pipe into the excavation. The Pipe Layer is responsible for a wide range of construction activities. This position reports to the Crew Leader.
Job Requirements
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
  • License/Certification: Valid Driver’s License.
  • Experience: Two or more year’s on-the-job experience preparing and installing various pipe systems.
  • Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: Must have knowledge of the installation process for many types of pipe. Must be detail oriented and capable of multi-tasking. Good verbal communication skills. Able to take orders and follow direction.
  • Physical: Must be physically able to lift up to 100lbs and perform considerable stooping, kneeling and digging. Must have a full range of body movements including use of hands and legs. Must have the ability to work on scaffolding.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Carefully install various types of pipe, structures and fittings.
  • Work with a pipe laser system and target.
  • Safely work in a ditch and trench box.
  • Prepare pipe, fittings and manholes for installation and backfill.
  • Mix concrete/cement by hand.
  • Operate hand tools as required by the project.
  • Set up and put away job equipment.
  • Proper care and use of hand tools.
  • Assist in utility testing.
  • Assist in the cleaning of tools, equipment and work areas.
  • Report any unsafe condition, accident or injury to crew leader.
  • Performs any other duties from time to time as may be assigned by the Crew Leader.
Working Conditions
This position requires extensive physical activities working outdoors in all types of weather conditions at residential and commercial construction sites. At times, employee may have to work in constrained areas. Employee may be required to drive company vehicle to project sites located within a 120 mile radius of the company offices. Job requires working with and around heavy duty site excavation and development equipment. Normal work hours Monday through Friday are from 7:30am to 4:00pm with a 30 minute lunch break, (unpaid). Start time may vary due to the needs of the business.