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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

City of Leander, TX

Equipment Operator I

Leander, TX · On-site

$20.67 - $23/hr

Public Works Streets Opening Date: 08/25/2026 Performs entry level support work. Work involves ... Excavator * Small Hand Tools * None of the above * Chainsaw * Two-way radio * Shovel * Measuring ...

City of Leander

Equipment Operator I

Leander, TX · On-site

$20.67 - $23/hr

Performs entry level support work. Work involves completing a variety of tasks under the direction ... excavator. Knowledge of duties performed in construction and maintenance of streets and roadways ...

NEOGOV - Test

SOLR

Albany, TX · On-site

$124 - $125/mo

Equipment Operator I: Under immediate supervision, this is the entry-level class in the Equipment ... excavators, pavers, sweepers, flush trucks, sewer televising truck, rollers, snow plows ...

ADB Wireless

Laborer II - Drill Locator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II

Austin, TX · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

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

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$38

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Texas is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 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 Texas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Texas 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 Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,689 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Gas Laborer / Equipment Operator -Denton, TX

Primoris Services Corporation

Denton, TX • On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Primoris Services rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Job Overview:
Primoris Distribution Services is seeking dependable Gas Laborers and Equipment Operators to support underground natural gas construction projects in Denton, Texas. Candidates will be considered for the position and level that best match their experience, skills, and qualifications.
In this role, you will assist with installing, maintaining, and repairing underground natural gas distribution systems while following all company and customer safety requirements.
Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground natural gas pipelines.
  • Perform general construction labor, including digging trenches, backfilling, compacting soil, and restoring job sites.
  • Load, unload, move, and organize tools, materials, and equipment.
  • Assist with setting up work zones, traffic control, and job-site safety measures.
  • Locate and expose existing underground utilities using hand tools when required.
  • Operate construction equipment such as backhoes, excavators, trenchers, skid steers, and compactors based on experience and authorization.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Follow instructions from foremen, supervisors, and other crew leaders.
  • Participate in daily safety meetings and pre-job hazard assessments.
  • Follow all company, customer, OSHA, and DOT safety requirements.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized worksite.
  • Travel to assigned project locations and work extended hours as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications
  • Previous underground utility, pipeline, natural gas, or construction experience is preferred.
  • Equipment Operator candidates must have experience safely operating applicable construction equipment.
  • Entry-level candidates with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn may be considered for the Gas Laborer position.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is preferred.
  • Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus.
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Ability to work safely around underground utilities, moving equipment, and active construction sites.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier materials with assistance.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and varying terrain.
  • Willingness to travel and work overtime, nights, weekends, or emergency callouts when required.
  • Must successfully complete all required pre-employment screenings.

What We're Looking For
  • Safety-focused and dependable
  • Strong work ethic
  • Willingness to learn and take direction
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a crew
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality

Company Overview:
Primoris Gas Operations, which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris Distribution Services, Snelson and Pipejacking Trenchless, has over 60 years of experience working in the natural gas distribution industry. Over this time, we have maintained numerous customer relationships spanning more than two decades. Providing a safe environment, quality workmanship, and exceptional value to our customers is the foremost focus of our operations.
Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation paid weekly.
  • Best-in-class; Medical, Dental, Vision, and LTD/STD.
  • 401(k) with company match, vested day-one.
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan [ESPP].
  • Tuition Reimbursement.
  • Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, and Community Service Paid Time Off.
  • Pet Coverage "For our Furry Friends"
  • Legal Assistance Coverage
  • Award winning safety programs.
  • Overtime opportunities.
  • Growth Opportunities.
  • And more.

EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Agency Statement
We are not accepting resumes from Third Party Recruiting Firms for this position. If you are an Agency or Search firm representative, contact the Primoris Talent Acquisition Manager directly for consideration. Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms through this source. In addition, Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees on unsolicited resumes that are submitted to any member of the Staffing or Operations team. Primoris has established an approved vendor program for this service and will only consider accepting submissions from those approved firms. For consideration in becoming an approved vendor, contact HR.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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