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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Foley Products

Haul Truck Operator

Fortson, GA

Fortson , GA Job Level: Entry Level (less than 2 years) Job Type: Full-Time/Regular Date Updated ... excavator or front-end loader operators to load materials and dumping them into designated areas ...

Forsyth County, GA

Water Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$49K/yr

This is the entry level grade in the Water Equipment Operator series, however, depending on prior ... excavates around utility lines, cables, gas mains, and service lines; digs out pipes, services ...

Forsyth County

Water Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$44K/yr

This is the entry level grade in the Water Equipment Operator series, however, depending on prior ... excavates around utility lines, cables, gas mains, and service lines; digs out pipes, services ...

Kinder Morgan

Line Patroller - Macon

Macon, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

... excavation inspection of Company gas/liquids pipelines and appurtenances. Level 1 is an entry-level ... Knowledge and experience of valve operating systems. * The use of company-issued personal computer ...

Georgia

Cemetery Tech 1

Milledgeville, GA

Day (United States of America) Compensation Details: 36,520.00 Job Summary Performs entry-level ... Assists with grave digging and backfilling operations, including operating light excavation ...

Southern Company

Appr Electrician 6-A

Forest Park, GA · On-site

Operating commercial vehicles and pulling trailers * Completion of required apprenticeship training ... Construction machinery such as skid steers, excavators, back hoes, cranes or heavy load rigging and ...

Southern Company

Appr Electrician 6-A

Forest Park, GA

Operating commercial vehicles and pulling trailers * Completion of required apprenticeship training ... Construction machinery such as skid steers, excavators, back hoes, cranes or heavy load rigging and ...

Southern Company

Appr Electrician 6-A

Forest Park, GA · On-site

Operating commercial vehicles and pulling trailers * Completion of required apprenticeship training ... Construction machinery such as skid steers, excavators, back hoes, cranes or heavy load rigging and ...

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

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$22

$35

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 Georgia is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.13 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 Georgia? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia? For Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Georgia 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 Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,941 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Landfill Equipment Operator I

City of Augusta, GA

Blythe, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

This is an entry-level position in its classification. Operates heavy equipment and off-road complex specialty machines such as yard tractors, farm tractors, bulldozers, compactors, excavators or wheel loaders, waste compactors & dozers at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering, loading and/or compacting waste or soil in an efficient, safe and effective manner. Work is performed under regular supervision and is carried out in accordance with standardized equipment operation practice and general work instruction. Direction is given through oral and written communications.
Key Responsibilities and Performance Standards
  • Safely and efficiently performs heavy equipment/specialized machine operation in order to maintain and construct a landfill by using equipment to push trash; maintaining the appropriate grade and compaction levels; hauling dirt; loading truck with excavator; driving truck to work site; combining trash and dirt in order to grade.
  • Cleans and inspects all types of heavy equipment/machine in an effort to increase life expectancy and improve reliability. Continuously monitor the condition of the equipment to ensure it is operationally ready at all times to minimize down time; clean tracks or wheels on equipment, as needed.
  • Inspects equipment/machine for proper operating condition and loose or worn parts, maintain basic fluid levels on assigned equipment. Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Maintenance Shop for repair. Reports defects or damage to equipment to the appropriate authority
  • Drives large tractor-trailer rigs and low-boys to transport solid waste between transfer stations and the landfill or to move construction equipment to and from job sites; positions vehicle to allow for the most efficient and effective loading or unloading of equipment and materials; and secures all doors, gates, and fasteners to prevent spillage or loss of load
  • Utilizes safety equipment and wears protective gear: monitors work environment to ensure safety of employees and other individuals; monitors traffic conditions surrounding trucks and equipment to identify obstructions, pedestrians, or unsafe traffic conditions; flags and directs traffic and places markers, signs and cones around project and work site to ensure safety of crew and the traveling public; and reports any incidents, accidents, problems, or unusual situations.
  • Communicates with supervisor, coworkers, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems: communicates via telephone and/or two-way radio; provides information and assistance; takes and relays messages or directs calls to appropriate personnel; and returns as necessary.
  • Provides coverage during special events and activities as needed: responds to emergency and disaster situations as needed; provides assistance to other employees or departments as needed.
  • Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

POSITION SPECIFIC DUTIES MAY INCLUDE:
  • Types of equipment, percentages of equipment use, and areas of assignment may vary.
  • Perform pre- and post- operation inspection of the equipment in accordance with department policy. Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklifts, excavators, bulldozers, front loaders, articulating trucks, compactors, graders, scrapers, skid steers, and other equipment using proper safety standards.
  • Continuously monitor the condition of the equipment to ensure it is operationally ready at all times to minimize down time; clean tracks or wheels on equipment, as needed.
  • Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more complicated issues to management for maintenance shop to repair.
  • Demonstrate continuous effort to improve operation, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.

Education: High school diploma or GED
Experience: No experience required. Familarity and understanding of operating equipment in the construction, repair, and/or maintenance of public infrastructure or a related field.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Preferred:
  • Equipment safety precautions and procedures;
  • Landscaping methods and procedures;
  • Traffic safety and control procedures;
  • Grading techniques;
  • Erosion control measures and principles;
  • Road maintenance and repair procedures;
  • Emergency repair techniques.
  • Utilizing hand tools;
  • Performing preventative maintenance;
  • Using two-way radio and other communication equipment;
  • Operating heavy equipment;
  • Communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

Licensing:
  • Possess a valid state operator/driver's license for the type vehicle operated with good driving history.
  • Operator of heavy equipment such as dozer, excavator, landfill compactor, and off-road trucks does not require valid Driver's License.

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