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Entry Level Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ESI Engineered Solutions

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Hand Excavator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$35K/yr

This is an entry-level, labor-intensive role focused on physical tools like shovels and jackhammers, rather than operating heavy machinery. This role requires precise hand excavation, clear ...

Rapido Talent

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

We're partnering with one of Southeast Wisconsin's premier commercial paving and site construction contractors to hire an experienced Excavator Operator with a CDL . This isn't an entry-level role.

Rapido Talent

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI

$45 - $55/hr

We're partnering with one of Southeast Wisconsin's premier commercial paving and site construction contractors to hire an experienced Excavator Operator with a CDL . This isn't an entry-level role.

Rapido Talent

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

We're partnering with one of Southeast Wisconsin's premier commercial paving and site construction contractors to hire an experienced Excavator Operator with a CDL . This isn't an entry-level role.

Liebherr

Entry-Level Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

This posting is to collect resumes from students that are interested in entry-level or internship ... excavators. It was later converted into Liebherr's manufacturing facility for mining trucks and ...

Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain,

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Entry Level Septic Technician / Helper

Islandia, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Entry-Level Septic Technician / Pump Truck Helper Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain | Islandia, NY ... Excavation and construction basics * Industry-leading wastewater management practices ...

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Entry Level Excavator information

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How much do entry level excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level excavator?

An Entry Level Excavator job involves operating heavy machinery to dig, move, and grade earth on construction sites under supervision. Responsibilities may include assisting with site preparation, following safety protocols, and maintaining equipment. This role typically requires basic equipment training, a willingness to learn, and physical stamina. Many employers provide on-the-job training for beginners.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level excavator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Excavator, you need basic knowledge of heavy equipment operation, safety procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with operating excavators and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment operator cards is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this position. These skills ensure safe, efficient excavation work while reducing the risk of accidents and supporting team success on construction sites.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level excavators on the job?

Entry level excavators often encounter challenges such as adapting to different types of heavy equipment, learning site-specific safety protocols, and managing varying soil or weather conditions. You'll need to quickly become comfortable following precise instructions from supervisors and communicating effectively with coworkers to ensure tasks are completed safely. There can also be physical demands, including long hours outdoors and lifting or moving materials. However, these challenges present excellent learning opportunities and help you build valuable skills for career growth in the construction industry.

How to get started as an entry level excavator?

To start as an entry-level excavator operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete on-the-job training or a vocational program, and earn a commercial driver's license if required. Gaining familiarity with excavation equipment, safety protocols, and basic construction skills is essential, and some employers may require certification from organizations like OSHA or NCCER.
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Entry Level Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator / Laborer Punch Out Crew

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors Inc
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors Incexternal

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator / Laborer Punch Out Crew
Jacksonville, FL | Full-Time | Hourly
At Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc., we don't just build infrastructure we build life-changing infrastructure. We are a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contracting firm based in Jacksonville, FL.
We specialize in public works, water resources (including water and wastewater treatment plants), and site development, with expertise in underground utilities, roadway construction, and related civil infrastructure.
We are seeking an entry-level Excavator Operator / Laborer to join our Punch Out Crew supporting heavy civil construction projects in Jacksonville and surrounding areas.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who already has some experience operating an excavator or similar heavy equipment and wants to continue developing their operating skills. This is not a seat-only operator position. You will operate equipment when needed while also working alongside the crew performing hands-on labor, cleanup, grading, restoration, and other punch-out activities.
If you're willing to get out of the machine, work alongside the crew, and continue developing as a heavy equipment operator, we'd like to talk with you.
What You'll Do
Equipment Operation
  • Operate excavators and other construction equipment as assigned to support punch-out and project completion activities.
  • Perform light excavation, grading, backfilling, cleanup, and restoration work.
  • Safely operate equipment around utilities, structures, workers, and other equipment.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Follow spotter direction and established safe operating procedures.
Punch-Out & Labor Support
  • Work alongside the crew performing general construction labor when equipment operation is not required.
  • Assist with grading, backfilling, cleanup, site restoration, and completion of remaining project work.
  • Use hand and power tools safely to complete assigned tasks.
  • Assist with loading, unloading, moving, and organizing materials and tools.
  • Help maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
  • Perform other heavy civil construction and punch-out duties as assigned.
Safety & Teamwork
  • Follow Petticoat-Schmitt and OSHA safety requirements at all times.
  • Identify and communicate jobsite hazards or unsafe conditions.
  • Work effectively with Foremen, operators, laborers, and other field personnel.
  • Take direction, ask questions, and continue developing equipment operating and heavy civil construction skills.
What We're Looking For
Experience & Skills
  • Some previous experience operating an excavator or similar heavy construction equipment required.
  • This is an entry-level operator opportunity; extensive operating experience is not required.
  • Willingness and ability to perform general construction labor in addition to operating equipment.
  • Basic understanding of safe heavy equipment operation.
  • Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a crew.
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
  • Heavy civil, underground utility, site development, or roadway construction experience preferred but not required.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record preferred.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to safely enter and exit excavators and other construction equipment.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, reach, push, and pull throughout the workday.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to safely navigate uneven terrain and active construction sites.
  • Ability to work around moving heavy equipment and construction operations.
  • Ability to wear all required personal protective equipment.
Why Petticoat-Schmitt?
We live our values (A.C.T.):
Accountability Safety first. Plan the work. Execute with ownership.
Character Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility.
Team Shared goals, servant leadership, determination, and results.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
  • Earned Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • 6 Paid Holidays.
  • Annual Profit Sharing Participate in company-wide profit sharing once annual goals are achieved.
  • Monthly Safety Bonus Earned when the company goes recordable-incident free.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage Options, including a 100% company-paid High Deductible Health Plan (employee-only coverage).
  • Dental, vision, short/long-term disability, and accident coverage.
  • Up to $50,000 employer-paid life insurance.
  • 401(k) with 100% company match on the first 4%.
  • Ongoing training and opportunities to develop your heavy equipment operating skills.
Work Schedule
  • MondayFriday, 7:00 AM 4:00 PM.
  • Hours may vary or extend based on project needs.
  • Overtime and occasional weekend work may be required.
Location & Travel
  • Location: Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas.
  • Travel: Occasional travel as needed to support project requirements.
What We Expect
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
  • Consistent attendance, punctuality, and dependable communication.
  • Professional appearance and conduct.
  • Willingness to perform both equipment operation and hands-on construction work as assigned.
  • Commitment to safe equipment operation and jobsite practices.
  • Commitment to living Petticoat-Schmitt's values of Accountability, Character, and Teamwork.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
About Petticoat-Schmitt
Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL since 2007, Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is a privately owned, employee-owned (ESOP) civil contracting firm. We specialize in public works, water resources (including water and wastewater treatment plants), and site development, with expertise in underground utilities, roadway construction, and related civil infrastructure.
Agency Disclaimer
Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or third-party recruiters. Any unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Petticoat-Schmitt, and no fees will be paid for such submissions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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