2

Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs in Worcester, MA

... entry-level position, you will be assigned to a crew with seasoned foremen, equipment operators ... Your duties will involve general labor such as excavating, trenching and shoring while working ...

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$13

$26

$41

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator operator in Worcester, MA is $26.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $28.46 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 Worcester, MA?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs in Worcester, MA?

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

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings in Worcester, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 8% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,147 per year, or $26 per hour.

Loader Operator - Asphalt Plant

Riley Brothers

Bellingham, MA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries.  We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, 5 Star Electric, Superior Hydrovac and Superior Pipeline Services. 

Position Title: Operator - Loader

Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Classification:  Non-Exempt 

Pay Rate: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Essential Functions: 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Roles and Responsibilities: 

  • Operates, maneuvers, and navigates heavy equipment (backhoes, loaders, etc) at our asphalt plant in Bellingham
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes 
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects 
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties 
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites 
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading 
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills 
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs 
  • Exposes underground utilities manually 
  • Conducts post-job quality checks 
  • Cleans, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork 
  • Communicates with supervisor daily to turn in required paperwork 
  • Perform other tasks as required 

Success Factors: 

  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions. 
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift 
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling 
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions 
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers 
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy 
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports 
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills  

Experience and Education: 

  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required 
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in operating a loader
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred 
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis 

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications: 

  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid State of Residence Driver’s License is required within two weeks of employment. 
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen. 

Notes: 

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.