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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

Foley Products

Heavy Equipment Operator

Montgomery, AL · On-site

Montgomery , AL Job Level: Entry Level (less than 2 years) Job Type: Full-Time/Regular Date Updated ... Operate off road heavy equipment including haul trucks, loaders, excavators, dozers, to mine and ...

GHD Group

Construction Laborer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Laborer/ Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated ...

GHD

Construction Laborer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Laborer/ Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated ...

ADB

Laborer I

Bessemer, AL

$20/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer to provide entry level outside plant (OSP) installation support on various ... Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator ...

ADB

Travel Laborer I

Bessemer, AL

$20/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer to provide entry level outside plant (OSP) installation support on various ... Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator ...

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Alabama

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do entry level excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Alabama is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $25.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Excavator Operator vs Construction Laborer?

AspectEntry Level Excavator OperatorConstruction Laborer
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL)OSHA safety training, no specific certifications required
Work EnvironmentOperate heavy machinery on construction sitesAssist with various manual tasks on construction sites
Industry UsageCommonly used in excavation, grading, and site prepGeneral labor across multiple construction tasks

While both roles work on construction sites, the Entry Level Excavator Operator specializes in operating heavy machinery like excavators, requiring specific safety certifications. In contrast, Construction Laborers perform manual tasks and assist with various site activities without specialized machinery operation skills. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Excavator Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, along with any required safety certifications. Familiarity with heavy equipment controls, routine maintenance procedures, and often OSHA safety standards or site-specific certifications is expected. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for working safely and efficiently on job sites. These competencies ensure safe operation, minimize equipment damage, and contribute to the smooth progress of construction projects.

How much do they pay an entry level excavator operator?

Entry-level excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment. Starting salaries may be higher with certifications or specialized training, and some positions offer additional benefits or overtime pay.

What is an entry level excavator operator?

Entry level excavator operators are individuals who operate excavators and similar heavy equipment, typically at the beginning of their careers. Their main responsibilities include digging, moving earth, and assisting with construction or landscaping projects. They usually work under the supervision of experienced operators and are expected to follow safety guidelines and site instructions. Training is often provided on the job, and formal certifications may be required depending on the employer and location.

How to get started as an entry level excavator operator?

To start as an entry-level excavator operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship to learn equipment operation, and earn a commercial driver's license if required. Gaining hands-on experience and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level excavator operators during their first few months on the job?

Entry-level excavator operators often encounter challenges such as mastering precise equipment control, understanding job site safety protocols, and adapting to varying soil and weather conditions. Working in a team environment, they may also need to quickly learn communication practices with supervisors, spotters, and other heavy machinery operators. Overcoming these challenges typically involves hands-on training, asking questions, and closely following experienced colleagues to build confidence and competence.
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama? For Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings:
Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,314 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

GHD

Decatur, AL

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

GHD rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Join a global professional services leader. We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization.

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level  Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with earthwork and environmental construction! As Equipment Operator you must demonstrate safe operation of assigned equipment based on changing operating conditions.

Travel expectations: Projects are located throughout the U.S. Travel is on a rotational basis: 3 weeks onsite, home for a weekend and then back onsite for another 3 weeks. Travel, mobilization, hotel and per diem costs are paid by GHD. We have an upcoming 3-year project in western Ohio. 

Performance Responsibilities:

  • Operate medium equipment at high caliber of quality
  • Safely operates equipment with the ability to achieve daily production goals
  • Conducts daily maintenance checks of all operated equipment and vehicles
  • Provides physical labor with hand tools, power tools, etc. when vital
  • Read, interpret and construct according to engineered drawings/ plans.
  • Assists Superintendent and foreperson in ensuring that the final product is of the upmost and highest possible quality, both structurally and aesthetically.
  • Completes all required quarterly and yearly Safety Reporting Forms (STEPs, UA/UC/SW)

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2 years in operating a variety of medium-sized or larger equipment
  • Qualified in the basic operation of equipment (e.g. dozer, loader, excavator, roller/compactor, grader) in a production scenario.
  • Ability to read/ use tape measures, transit/levels, etc.

If you are passionate about pursuing this position, please submit your resume and cover letter via the link below.

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or veteran status.

This position does not provide visa sponsorship.

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About GHD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanisation. GHD is a global professional services company that is a leader in engineering, construction and architectural expertise. Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 10,000+ diverse and skilled individuals, yet we are proudly 'One GHD' across more than 200 offices, spanning five continents - Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region. Delivering extraordinary social and economic outcomes, we are passionate about building lasting relationships with our partners and clients.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waterloo, ON, CA

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