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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Washington

William A. Hazel, Inc.

GPS Dozer Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$24 - $38/hr

Less than high school education required; entry level experience. Ability to apply commonsense ... Vision insurance If you'd like to apply to one of our excavator operator jobs, fill out the ...

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

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Washington salary details

$15

$29

$47

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Washington is $29.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.52 and $32.40 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?

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.

How much do they pay an entry level excavator operator?

Entry-level excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment. Starting salaries may be higher with certifications or specialized training, and some positions offer additional benefits or overtime pay.

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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Washington? For Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Washington 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,622 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

GPS Dozer Operator

William A. Hazel, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$24 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

William A. Hazel rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

William A. Hazel, Inc., a total site development contractor for over 50 years, is looking for a Dozer Operator (GPS) for our Dirt Crew. This position reports to and is under the direction of foreman or superintendent. William A. Hazel, Inc., operates all over the Northern Virginia Area. By applying to this position, you acknowledge and understand you may be required to commute to job sites.
Essential Functions
• Operate heavy equipment equipped with a front mounted hydraulically powered blade to spread and push back materials by performing the following duties.
• Climb steps to enter machine. Start engine, push levers to move machine forward or reverse. Use hands to raise or lower blade, use feet to brake, or throttle machine. Use hands and feet to steer.
• Understand stakes/grades and be able to place on grade and check grade.
• Inspect machine daily; check all fluids and grease daily.
• Work around other machines and people.
• Place fill material in proper place.
• Help foreman/superintendent set stakes and grades.
• Raise/lower stakes and grades in cuts and fills by themselves.
Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Less than high school education required; entry level experience. Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Less than high school education required; or up to one year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education experience. Ability to read a limited number of two- and three-syllable words and to recognize similarities and differences between words and between series of numbers. Ability to print and speak simple sentences. Ability to add and subtract simple numbers and to multiply and divide. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money, weight measurement, volume and distance. Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standarized situations.
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

If you'd like to apply to one of our excavator operator jobs, fill out the application linked to in the right-hand column and we will get back to you.
Salary: Hourly $24.00 to $38.00/hour
William A. Hazel, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.
We do not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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