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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Assured Excavating, Inc

Lube Truck Assistant

Orlando, FL · On-site

$37K - $48K/yr

Assured Excavating Inc. , is seeking a dependable and safety-conscious professional to support ... As Lube Truck Assistant , you will work alongside a driver/operator to help complete scheduled ...

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Entry Level Excavator Operator information

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Florida is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Florida?

For Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida 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 Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Class C Equipment Operator

Moretrench Industrial

Tampa, FL

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description


Moretrench Class C operators are the entry level of Moretrench heavy equipment operators. 


  • Skilled, trained, and qualified to safely operate at least one type of heavy equipment piece such as a roller, forklift, bulldozer, backhoe, grader, front-end loader, end dump, or other piece of heavy equipment.
  • Experience with heavy equipment operations involving mass excavations; clearing and grubbing; backfilling and compacting; excavating and pipe laying; or construction and maintenance of embankments, berms, and dikes.
  • Skilled at the practice of operating safely on worksites according to OSHA and Moretrench safety protocols and requirements.
  • Note that all job site locations are remote and temporary, so a form of transportation is required
  • Valid Florida driver’s license, or the equivalent.

  • Works under the direction of the Lead Operator, Earthwork Foreman, Earthwork Superintendent, and/or other designated project leads.
  • Follows and maintains safe operating procedures and protocols for all equipment operation and field activity in accordance with Moretrench safety policy and OSHA requirements.
  • All operators must have the ability to recognize site hazards or hazardous conditions and take responsibility to keep equipment and personnel out of potentially hazardous conditions or areas
  • Ability to safely perform physical duties associated with operation of Moretrench heavy equipment including but not limited to bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, handling, climbing into and out of, and around heavy equipment.
  • Ability to work safely in a wide variety of climatic conditions and job site environments commonly found at Moretrench job sites.
  • Performs daily greasing and fluid checks and assumes responsibility for the maintenance and safe operation of any and all assigned pieces of equipment.
  • Operators must keep the equipment in clean and orderly condition free from garbage and excessive dirt/gyp buildup

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