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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 ...

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 · On-site

$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 9, 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:
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,314 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator (off road)/Groundman

Foley Products

Phenix City, AL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator (off road)/Groundman Job Tracking ID: 512363-914057 Job Location: Phenix City , AL Job Level: Entry Level (less than 2 years) Job Type: Full-Time/Regular Date Updated: August 05, 2026 Years of Experience: Up to 2 Years Starting Date: ASAP Back to job search Invite a friend Job Description: Foley Materials Company is hiring for an experienced off-road Heavy Equipment Operator for our sand and gravel plant located in Phenix City, AL. Core Responsibilities: Operate large hydraulic excavators to dig, move, and load massive volumes of rock, gravel, and sand into haul trucks, crushers, and material piles Strip overburden, build access roads, and maintain a safe, level and stable work bench Conduct thorough pre-shift hazard assessments, lubricate moving parts, monitor hydraulic and engine gauges Perform basic equipment and plant maintenance Follow all MSHA and site specific safety regulations/policies/procedures Other duties as requested We are an Equal Opportunity Employer Comprehensive Benefits Package including: health, dental, vision, life, STD; 401(k) with match; paid time off (earning hours as early as 3 months employment) Experience and Skills: What You Need: Experience operating, maneuvering, and adjusting large tracked excavators in varied and rugged terrain Experience operating haul truck, dozer, loader, etc. Basic troubleshooting skills to perform operator-level maintenance and report major mechanical defects to the shop Basic use of hand and power tools to perform plant maintenance High level of spatial awareness to avoid hazards such as power lines, steep slopes, unstable rock faces, and other heavy equipment Ability to work long shifts, climb access ladders safely and operate in demanding, hot and cold weather conditions 2 - 5 years of commercial heavy equipment or excavator experience, preferably in a mining or construction environment preferred.

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