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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Utility Locator

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Entry Level Utility Locator / Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician Role! This role ... Operate Vac Truck equipment to safely excavate around utilities and remove soil and debris. * Use ...

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Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Florida salary details

$10

$19

$31

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

As of Jul 28, 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 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, and why are they important?

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 entry level excavator operators?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level excavator operators can potentially earn around $4,000 per week with experience, overtime, and working in high-demand construction or mining projects. These roles often require certifications like OSHA safety training and familiarity with heavy machinery, and pay varies based on location, schedule, and skill level.

How much do entry level excavators make?

Entry-level excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

How to get experience as an Excavator Operator?

Entry level excavator operators typically gain experience through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational programs that include hands-on operation of excavators. Obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) and completing a certified equipment operation course can also improve job prospects and skill development.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level excavator operator positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete a training program or obtain certification such as OSHA or NCCCO. Employers may provide on-the-job training to develop skills with equipment and safety procedures. Having basic knowledge of construction sites and physical fitness can improve job prospects.
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 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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings in Florida 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 $40,658 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Entry Level Grading Operator - *Palm Beach County to Brevard County*

Entry Level Grading Operator - *Palm Beach County to Brevard County*

CK Contractors & Development

West Palm Beach, FL • On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

CK Contractors and Development LLC’s roots date back to 1966, and during the past 60 years, our team has been developing properties throughout the Southeast, earning the distinction of being one of the leading construction site development contractors.


We offer competitive wages and solid career opportunities. Are you looking to join a great team as an Entry Level Grading Operator?


**Job sites range from Palm Beach County to Brevard County**

CK Contractors and Development is hiring Entry Level Grading Operators. This position is responsible for operating and maintaining various heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, rollers, backhoes, and off-road trucks for the purpose of site grading.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities


  • Beginning operator for various heavy equipment such as bulldozers, skid steers, excavators, rollers, backhoes, off road trucks, motor graders, etc.
  • May perform fine or rough grading.
  • Read plans on site and check grade according to site plan.
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
  • Take action to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  • Check fuel supplies at sites to ensure adequate availability.
  • Monitor operations to ensure that health and safety standards are met.
  • Responsible for pre and post checks of equipment, daily maintenance and keeping the equipment clean and ready for daily operation.
  • Keep records or material or equipment usage or problems encountered.
  • Must have the initiative, ability, and willingness to perform and assist with other job positions for job completion as requested.
  • Maintain attendance at work, including presence at work during regular work hours or other schedules as may be assigned. Acceptance of overtime assignments will also be required based on operational needs.


Experience and Requirements


  • The ideal candidate will have 3-6 months of site grading experience or outdoor work experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate various grading equipment.
  • Must demonstrate excellent safety awareness, and a willingness to comply with company policies and safety standards.
  • Must be able to work with others to achieve company results; Have the ability to think critically to analyze information and make sound decisions.
  • Effective communication with other operators, truck drivers and general laborers is critical, both verbally and nonverbally; this includes the ability to listen to the ideas of others.
  • Must have reliable transportation to be at work when scheduled and have the ability to travel. Periodic evenings, nights, weekends, and overtime hours are expected.
  • Must be able to adapt and adjust to changing situations and priorities with a positive attitude.
  • Must always wear proper attire including safety vests, safety glasses when appropriate, long pants, hard sole/close-toed shoes, and reflect a clean and presentable image.
  • Continuous mental and visual attention is necessary to safely and effectively complete work tasks.


Working Conditions


  • Able to stand/sit for extended periods of time, as well as stoop, kneel, walk, bend, crouch, lift, crawl, and balance at heights up to six feet from ground level as required to perform essential duties.
  • Able to climb on and off equipment several times throughout the day while maintaining three (3) points of contact.
  • Able to lift, pull, and push up to 50 lbs.
  • Able to be on your feet regularly and use hands, arms, and legs repeatedly on the job. This includes frequently walking on sloped ground and slippery and uneven surfaces, as well as working in confined areas.
  • This job requires the ability to perform essential tasks in less than favorable conditions. These may include but are not limited to: Performing strenuous work in varying temperatures, humidity, sand, wind, or other extreme inclement weather conditions for extended periods of time.
  • Work may be performed in an environment with exposure to extremely hot materials, fuel fumes, vapors, dust, grease and oils, as well as loud and/or constant noise and exposure to moving equipment.


We provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan. In addition to financial security, we prioritize the well-being of our team members by offering paid time off, paid holidays, a safe work environment, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). We believe that by investing in our employees’ health, wellness, and safety, we can cultivate a motivated and dedicated workforce, leading to the overall success and growth of our company.


Employees are expected to follow all OSHA and company policies to minimize accidents and injuries to personnel and property.


Pay range is based on experience.


**Job sites range from Palm Beach County to Brevard County**. By applying for this job opening, you acknowledge our operation radius and understand your commute could reach up to one (1) hour. Teammates are asked to move job sites as project needs change.  All applicants to whom a conditional offer of employment is made shall undergo and pass pre-employment screening, including a drug test prior to beginning work.


This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.


We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.