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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Veit

Operator (Dredging)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Operator (Dredging)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit CO

Backhoe Operator (Utilities)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit

Backhoe Operator (Utilities)

Duluth, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rogers, MN

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Dozer Operator (Earthwork)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Skidsteer Operator (Earthwork)

Rogers, MN

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit CO

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Backhoe Operator (Utilities)

Duluth, MN

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit

Skidsteer Operator (Earthwork)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit CO

Backhoe Operator (Utilities)

Duluth, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit

Dozer Operator (Earthwork)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Traveling Operator (Utilities)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veit

Backhoe Operator (Utilities)

Rogers, MN · On-site

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

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Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$40

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 Minnesota is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.03 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Minnesota 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 Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,288 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Western North Dakota Heavy Equipment Operator

Gladen Construction Inc

Laporte, MN

$53.05/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled Excavator Operator for infrastructure projects across North Dakota.

Applicants must have experience setting RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels. While no live utility work is involved, pipe experience is essential. Safety and situational awareness around laborers and trench crews is non-negotiable.

This is not an entry-level position - we're willing to pay above scale for proven talent.

Excavator Operator (Travel - North Dakota Projects)

Employer: Gladen Construction, Inc. - Laporte, MN

Pay: Base pay starting at North Dakota Prevailing Wage

(Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)

Willing to negotiate higher rate for experienced operators

Per Diem: $50 per working day

Schedule: 10-12 hours/day, 5-6 days/week - overtime expected

Travel Required: 100% (Per diem only; lodging not provided)

Seasonal Position: Work anticipated through fall, weather permitting

Responsibilities

  • - Operate excavators for trenching and placing RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels
  • - Work confidently around laborers and pipe crews with safety in mind
  • - Perform light equipment maintenance (fluids, greasing, inspections)
  • - Follow the layout provided for excavation and placement
  • - Use radios and hand signals to communicate with ground crew
  • - Follow proper trench safety and crew protocols
  • - Contribute to a positive team environment and assist where needed

Requirements

  • - Full-time travel throughout North Dakota
  • - Valid Driver's License (Class A CDL preferred)
  • - Excavator experience in utility/pipe/culvert work
  • - Familiarity with rigging and laser levels
  • - Physically capable of working long outdoor shifts
  • - Commitment to safety and collaboration
  • EEO Drug Free Work environment
  • Position is considered Safety Sensitive

What We Offer

  • Total compensation Base pay starts at $53.05/hr
  • (Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)
  • - Negotiable higher rate for highly skilled operators
  • - $50/day per diem (only for days worked)
  • - Regular overtime, consistent work
  • - A solid, skilled crew and company that values operators

How to Apply:

Apply directly at www.gladenconstructioninc.com/careers

or email your resume to Jaron@gladenconstructioninc.com

Company Information

Gladen Construction, Inc. is a third generation family owned company in north central Minnesota, that's involved in all types of Heavy and Highway Construction.  Our main office and shop is located 14 miles south of Bemidji, MN on US highway 71. 

As a company we have talents and expertise that enable us to be more diversified, such as all types of Excavating, Grading, Large Box Culverts, Piping, Utilities, Reclamation, State, County, Township, Railroad, and Mining work.  Our employees have good ideas and have the work ethic of our parents and grandparents.  Gladen Construction Inc. is proud of the work we do and personnel that motivate our company.  With our fleet of modern equipment, a very competent group of supervisory personnel and experienced operators, Gladen Construction Inc. is confident that we can do any type of earth moving projects in the Highway and Heavy Construction fields. 

GLADEN CONSTRUCTION, INC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND STRONGLY ENCOURAGES WOMEN, MINORITIES AND VETERANS TO APPLY.

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