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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities. Operating ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ...

Operator I Pipeline

Henderson, CO · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities. Operating ... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ...

... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ... Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site. * Follows ...

Operator - Restoration

Henderson, CO · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

... entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on various safety ... Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site. * Follows ...

Heavy equipment may include excavators, front-end loaders, dozers, scrapers and other pieces of equipment. This role requires more advanced skills and knowledge compared to an entry-level operator ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

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 the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 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.
More about Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings in the United States 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 $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

$32 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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 I Pipeline

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

Classification: Non-Exempt

Pay Rate: $32.00 - $40.00 per hour DOE

Essential Functions:

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

The Operator I is a valued member of a 2–4-person construction crew, has full knowledge of operations, and is an expert in heavy equipment. This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities.  Operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner as required for placing utilities to new and existing residential homes, multifamily and commercial units. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers, backhoes, loaders, and other pieces of equipment.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Operates, maneuvers, navigates, or drives vehicles or mechanized equipment or passenger vehicles. 
  • 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. 
  • Cleans, Grease, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork. 
  • Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site.
  • Follows 811 digging laws and company’s safe digging practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

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. 
  • One (1+) plus years of experience digging and working around underground utilities is required. 
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities preferred. 
  • 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: 

  • 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.