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Entry Level Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SiteWise

Operator I Pipeline

Henderson, CO

$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 ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Plattsburgh, NY

$22 - $24/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Are you an entry-level or experienced equipment operator who enjoys ... What You'll Do ✅ Operate dozers and excavators for landfill construction, cell development ...

New

Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry level skilled duties related to city-wide stormwater operations ... Cleans storm water lines; excavates, repairs and replace storm water lines and mains; operates ...

Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT

$63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry level skilled duties related to city-wide stormwater operations ... Cleans storm water lines; excavates, repairs and replace storm water lines and mains; operates ...

Veit

Vac Truck Operator

Rogers, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

Veitusa

Vac Truck Operator

Rogers, MN

$21.25 - $27/hr

Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ... excavating. * Review trenching requirements with the Superintendent and ensure any required ...

SiteWise

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 ...

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Entry Level Excavator Operator information

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$13

$26

$41

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

As of Jun 27, 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, and why are they important?

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 entry level excavator operators?

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 much do entry level excavators make?

Entry-level excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

How to get experience as an excavator operator?

Entry level excavator operators typically gain experience through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational programs that teach equipment operation and safety procedures. Obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific excavator certifications can also improve job prospects and demonstrate competence in operating heavy machinery.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level excavator operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete a training program or obtain certification such as OSHA or NCCCO. Employers may provide on-the-job training to develop skills in operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

How do I get into operating an excavator?

To become an entry-level excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete a training program or apprenticeship that covers equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers require a valid driver's license and may prefer candidates with a certification from a recognized training school. Gaining hands-on experience through supervised work and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) can improve job prospects.
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:
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What states have the most Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 17% As Needed, 4% Full Time, 71% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Civil Site Heavy Equipment Operator (Palmyra, NY; Rochester, NY)

Civil Site Heavy Equipment Operator (Palmyra, NY; Rochester, NY)

Livingston Associates

Palmyra, NY • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

We are a family-owned company that values skilled, reliable workers who take pride in their craft. If you're looking for a stable career with growth opportunities, Woodstone Earth Construction is the right place for you!
Position: Heavy Equipment Operator
Company: Woodstone Earth Construction
Schedule: Be willing to work 40 -55 hours during the summer, Monday-Friday
Position Summary:
Heavy Equipment Operators at Woodstone Earth Construction will operate and maintain various types of heavy machinery on commercial site work projects
Pay Structure:
Tier 1: Entry Level- Heavy Equipment Operators (0-2 years of experience)
Pay Rate: $25-$30/hr
Key Responsibilities
  • Follow safety protocols and maintain clean and organized workspaces
  • Work closely with the team and communicate effectively with supervisors
  • Willing to assist with general labor tasks when needed

Qualifications:
  • Employability traits- consistently arrive on time/daily positive attitude/good work ethic/willingness to listen/aptitude to learn
  • Skill evaluation to take place onsite to set baseline of said discipline: Dozer/Skid loader/small excavator/loader/articulated haul truck
  • Willingness to listen and follow direction
  • Ability to work in a team environment

Tier 2: Novice/Amateur Heavy Equipment Operator (3-9 years of experience)
Pay Rate: $30-$35/hr
Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform a 4 point live demo to take place on said discipline to evaluate skill and aptitude: Excavator/Dozer/Loader/Haul Truck
  • Clear understanding of task required
  • Willingness to mentor and guide less experienced operators
  • Understanding of equipment and the basic maintenance of those items

Qualifications:
  • Employability traits- consistently arrive on time/daily positive attitude/good work ethic/willingness to listen/aptitude to learn
  • Experience with GPS System
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • A high desire to produce a quality product constantly
  • Care given to equipment to maintain equipment longevity
  • Safety oriented mindset

Tier 3: Advanced Heavy Equipment Operator (10+ years of experience)
Pay Rate: $35-$40/hr
Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform a 5 point live demo to take place on said discipline to evaluate skill and aptitude: Excavator/Dozer/Grader
  • Fluent with GPS Systems/can read civil plans
  • A high desire to produce a quality product consistently
  • Applying positive leadership skills to motivate the team. Both verbal and in action
  • Understanding a manager's position of production, deadlines, owner, and client demands

Qualifications:
  • Employability traits- consistently arrive on time/daily positive attitude/good work ethic/willingness to listen/aptitude to learn
  • Strong knowledge of GPS Systems
  • Ability to work independently
  • Care given to equipment to maintain equipment longevity
  • Safety oriented mindset

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