ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Naperville, IL

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator JobsEntry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Naperville, IL

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$13

$26

$41

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Naperville, IL is $26.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $28.56 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 Naperville, IL?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Naperville, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Naperville, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Naperville, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Naperville, IL are:

What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Naperville, IL 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 Naperville, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 13% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,327 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator (Teamster)

Vulcan Materials Company

Sycamore, IL • On-site

$40.55 - $45.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description


Job Summary
A haul truck driver operates large trucks to transport materials such as gravel or waste in mining, construction, or other industrial settings. Responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, following safety protocols, maintaining the vehicle, and communicating with site personnel to ensure efficient transportation of materials.
Essential Functions
• Reporting unsafe mechanical conditions to the shop foreman and supervisor
• Maintaining good housekeeping practices on equipment
• Training new equipment operators
• Assisting with equipment routine preventative maintenance
Critical Competencies
• Equipment Operation- Proficiency in operating large equipment, including understanding the controls, gauges, and indicators. Ability to manipulate equipment accurately and smoothly for various tasks. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications. Strong sense of spatial awareness to maneuver the loader safely in tight spaces, around obstacles and in congested work areas
• Safety Awareness- Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
• Self-Awareness- recognize their own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and impact on others, using this understanding to improve their effectiveness.
• Teamwork and Collaboration- Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve common goals; contributes positively to group efforts, sharing knowledge, and being open to others' ideas and feedback.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to new conditions, challenges, or changes in the work environment; demonstrate the ability to be flexible, open-minded, and resilient when facing shifting priorities, unforeseen obstacles, or evolving situations; responds positively to change, learns new skills when necessary, and maintains high performance even in unfamiliar or uncertain circumstances.
Responsibilities
Education
• High School Diploma/GED or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Experience
• Entry level to intermediate experience operating heavy off road mobile equipment
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Safe and proper operation of various types of heavy machinery, including off-road trucks, loaders, dozers, graders, excavators, and cranes.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment with a high degree of competence, skill, and proficiency.
• Will perform pre- and post-shift equipment inspections, identify and report mechanical issues, maintain equipment cleanliness, train others on equipment operation, assist with preventative maintenance, and adhere to all safety regulations.
• Effective communication skills are necessary to interact with supervisors, coworkers, and other personnel.
• Ability to identify and resolve operational issues in a timely and efficient manner.
• Basic mechanical knowledge is beneficial for understanding equipment operation and performing minor maintenance tasks.
Other Requirements
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license to operate company vehicles.
• Must have a clean driving record is required due to the operation of heavy machinery and company vehicles.
• Must be able to pass pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screenings as per company policy.
• Must be able to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
• May be required to work overtime as needed to meet operational demands.
Additional Info
The salary is prescribed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement. Experienced candidates will be placed according to the union contract salary scale between $40.55-45.06.
Full benefits package including medical, pension, training and education, paid vacation and paid holidays. This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

What Vulcan Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply