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Earthmoving Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pelino Excavation

Heavy Equipment Operator

Buena Vista, CO ยท On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Coordinate On-Site Workflows and Manage Civil Construction Assets Job ... None Required The Opportunity You will take command of critical earthmoving machinery to shape ...

Decca Consulting

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Belle Fourche, SD ยท On-site

$26/hr

Under direct supervision, the Heavy Equipment Operator performs earthmoving duties on a daily basis. Must have working knowledge of overburden handling, ore and soil segregation. General knowledge of ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Shreveport, LA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Shreveport, LA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

Benchmark Utility Services

Equipment Operator

Shreveport, LA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation and earthmoving tasks in support of utility construction and sitework projects. This role ...

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Earthmoving Operator information

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$14

$21

$29

How much do earthmoving operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for earthmoving operator in the United States is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Earthmoving Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Earthmoving Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a valid heavy equipment operator license or certification. Familiarity with operating machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as knowledge of safety protocols and GPS or grade control systems, is essential. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely with team members. These competencies are crucial for maximizing productivity, preventing accidents, and ensuring project success on construction sites.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in large-scale projects such as mining, oil and gas, or operate advanced machinery like cranes and bulldozers. Experienced operators with certifications, such as NCCCO, and those working in high-demand industries or remote locations tend to earn the most, with top salaries reaching over $70,000 to $100,000 annually.

What are Earthmoving Operators?

Earthmoving Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders to move earth, rock, and other materials at construction sites, mines, and other large-scale projects. Their main responsibilities include preparing sites for building, digging trenches, grading land, and ensuring materials are safely relocated. Earthmoving Operators must follow safety protocols, read plans or instructions, and perform basic maintenance on their equipment to ensure efficient and safe operations.

What are some common challenges Earthmoving Operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Earthmoving Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating difficult or uneven terrain, and maintaining focus during long shifts. To address these, operators should prioritize safety protocols, conduct regular equipment inspections, and communicate closely with site supervisors and team members. Ongoing training and staying updated with the latest machinery technology can also help operators work more efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Earthmoving Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectEarthmoving OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCertifications in heavy machinery operation, safety trainingCertifications in excavator operation, safety standards
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, excavation projects, demolition sites
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, mining firms, infrastructure contractorsConstruction firms, excavation services, demolition companies

Both Earthmoving Operators and Excavator Operators require similar certifications and work in construction or mining environments. The main difference is that Earthmoving Operators typically operate a range of heavy machinery, including excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, while Excavator Operators specialize specifically in operating excavators. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Earthmoving operators can earn around $10,000 a month with experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as a commercial driver's license or heavy equipment operator certification. High-paying roles often involve working in construction, mining, or infrastructure projects, sometimes requiring long hours or remote work. Advancement and experience significantly impact earning potential in this field.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Earthmoving operators working on large-scale construction or mining projects can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working overtime shifts. High-paying roles often require certifications, heavy equipment expertise, and working in remote or demanding environments.

What is the highest salary for an excavator operator?

The highest salaries for excavator operators can exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. Factors like certifications, location, and the complexity of equipment operated influence earning potential.
More about Earthmoving Operator jobs
What states have the most Earthmoving Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Earthmoving Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Earthmoving Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Earthmoving Operator jobs are:
Earthmoving Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Earthmoving Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,993 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pelino Excavation

Buena Vista, CO โ€ข On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator โ€“ Coordinate On-Site Workflows and Manage Civil Construction Assets


Job Overview

  • Company: Pelino Excavation
  • Salary/Pay Rate: $28 to $40+ per hour (Based on experience) plus Performance Based Bonus
  • Location: Buena Vista, CO (Travel Required).
  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time.
  • Project Scope: Commercial / Civil & Heavy Construction.
  • Mandatory Licences & Certifications: None Required


The Opportunity

You will take command of critical earthmoving machinery to shape commercial landscapes and direct daily field operations safely. This position empowers you to utilize your advanced operational skills while organizing site activities to achieve peak productivity and precision. You will collaborate closely with an efficient team that values technical expertise, organization, and a highly structured workflow.


How You Will Make an Impact

  • Operate specialized civil equipment including wheel loaders, excavators, and skid steer loaders with masterful precision.
  • Interpret engineered site plans and blueprints accurately to execute earthmoving tasks within strict tolerances.
  • Structure daily job site workflows to optimize resource utilization and maintain scheduled project milestones.
  • Collaborate with ground crews and project supervisors to coordinate safe heavy machinery movements.
  • Perform routine equipment inspections and preventive maintenance tasks to minimize mechanical downtime.
  • Address real-time grading and excavation deviations immediately to ensure complete structural integrity.


Required Qualifications & Experience

  • Proven technical mastery operating wheel loaders, full-sized excavators, and skid steer loaders safely.
  • Strong, demonstrated capability reading, interpreting, and executing detailed commercial civil plans and blueprints.
  • Deep knowledge of construction site workflow organization and heavy equipment safety protocols.
  • Ability to travel up to 20% of scheduled working hours to regional commercial project locations.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience

  • 5+ years of dedicated heavy equipment operations experience within civil and heavy construction.
  • Experience managing or directing job site workflows and sequencing earthmoving activities.
  • Background working on complex commercial development, utility excavation, or grading infrastructure projects.


Compensation & Benefits

  • Weekly pay cycle with performance-based bonuses available to reward efficient site execution.
  • 401(k) retirement savings program featuring competitive employer matching contributions available after introductory period.
  • Company doctor available to all employees.
  • Robust work-life balance with paid time off for holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
  • Paid parental leave covering both maternity and paternity needs for growing families.
  • Travel-based project per diem, mileage support, and relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
  • Access to specialized training and certifications including manufacturer, OSHA, fall protection, and lifts.


About Us

Pelino Excavation is a trusted name in civil and heavy construction, operating with a culture rooted in professional organization and competitive execution. We staff our projects with highly qualified contractors and foster a supportive environment where careers are built for the long term.


Learn more at https://pelinoexcavation.com/.๏ปฟ


Pelino Excavation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.

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