ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain,

Be Seen First

Entry Level Septic Technician / Helper

Islandia, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... operating equipment, helping customers, and building a long-term career with a growing company ... Excavation and construction basics * Industry-leading wastewater management practices ...

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in New York

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See New York salary details

$14

$28

$45

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in New York is $28.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.65 and $31.30 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 New York?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in New York are:

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in New York 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 New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,524 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Entry Level Septic Technician / Helper

Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain,

Islandia, NY • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Key responsibilities

  • Assist Pump Truck Technicians on daily service calls.

  • Help locate septic tanks, cesspools, and buried access covers, and assist with digging and uncovering septic systems.

  • Set up hoses, pumps, and equipment, and assist with pumping septic tanks, cesspools, grease traps, and wastewater systems.

Job description

Entry-Level Septic Technician / Pump Truck Helper

Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain | Islandia, NY

We Rush So You Can Flush®


Affordable Cesspool Sewer & Drain has proudly served Long Island since 1992 and is one of the region's leading septic, sewer, drain, excavation, and wastewater service companies.

Are you looking for a career instead of just another job?

We are seeking hardworking, dependable individuals to join our team as Entry-Level Septic Technicians / Pump Truck Helpers. No septic experience is required. We will train the right candidate.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, learning a skilled trade, operating equipment, helping customers, and building a long-term career with a growing company.


What You'll Learn

  • Septic tank and cesspool pumping
  • System diagnostics and troubleshooting
  • Cesspool and septic tank locating
  • Septic inspections and evaluations
  • Pump truck operations
  • Sewer and drain service support
  • Customer communication and service
  • Excavation and construction basics
  • Industry-leading wastewater management practices


Responsibilities

  • Assist Pump Truck Technicians on daily service calls
  • Help locate septic tanks, cesspools, and buried access covers
  • Assist with digging and uncovering septic systems
  • Set up hoses, pumps, and equipment
  • Assist with pumping septic tanks, cesspools, grease traps, and wastewater systems
  • Help maintain trucks, tools, and equipment
  • Complete job site cleanup and restoration
  • Assist customers and maintain a professional appearance
  • Learn proper safety procedures and industry best practices
  • Support technicians with daily operations and service work


Qualifications

  • Valid New York State Class D Driver's License required
  • Clean driving record preferred
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Reliable transportation to our Islandia office
  • Ability to use GPS and basic technology
  • Ability to learn CRM software on an iPad
  • Construction, landscaping, plumbing, septic, excavation, or mechanical experience is a plus but not required


Compensation & Career Path

Entry-Level Septic Technician / Helper

  • $18-$22 per hour
  • Paid training
  • No experience required


Junior Pump Technician

  • $23-$28 per hour + Commission

Senior Pump Technician

  • $29-$40 per hour + Enhanced Commission

Senior Septic Advisor

  • Advanced pay structure and leadership opportunities


What We Offer

  • Paid training
  • Guaranteed year-round work
  • Full-time stable employment
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Modern trucks and equipment
  • Family-owned company serving Long Island since 1992
  • Promote-from-within culture


Schedule

  • Typical start times between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM
  • Some days may start as early as 5:00 AM
  • Monday through Friday
  • Overtime opportunities available
  • Rotating on-call schedule
  • Rotating Sunday schedule as business needs require


Career Path

Entry-Level Septic Technician / Helper
→ Junior Pump Technician
→ Senior Pump Technician
→ Senior Septic Advisor
→ Field Supervisor
→ Service Manager
→ Operations Leadership

If you're looking for a hands-on career with unlimited growth potential, paid training, and the opportunity to learn a valuable trade, we'd love to hear from you.