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Entry Level Excavator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

H.M. Holloway

Heavy Equipment Operator 2

Lost Hills, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

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 ...

Caccia Home Services

Underground Plumber

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Operate excavators, jackhammers, and related equipment to dig trenches, break concrete, and prepare ... Pay $30 (entry level) up to $45-$50++ per hour DOE, plus overtime potential and additional ...

Caccia Home Services

Underground Plumber

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Operate excavators, jackhammers, and related equipment to dig trenches, break concrete, and prepare ... Pay $30 (entry level) up to $45-$50++ per hour DOE, plus overtime potential and additional ...

City of Los Banos

Utilities Maintenance III

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$59K - $76K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Utilities Maintenance I This is the entry level class in the ... Determine location of gas, telephone, power, television, water and sewer lines prior to excavation.

City of Los Banos

Utilities Maintenance I/II

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$48K - $69K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Utilities Maintenance I This is the entry level class in the ... excavation. Respond to complaints regarding water leaks, poor taste, color, odor, pressure, loss or ...

ADB

QA/QC Specialist

Sacramento, CA

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

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Entry Level Excavator information

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How much do entry level excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in California is $25.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level excavator?

An Entry Level Excavator job involves operating heavy machinery to dig, move, and grade earth on construction sites under supervision. Responsibilities may include assisting with site preparation, following safety protocols, and maintaining equipment. This role typically requires basic equipment training, a willingness to learn, and physical stamina. Many employers provide on-the-job training for beginners.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level excavator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Excavator, you need basic knowledge of heavy equipment operation, safety procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with operating excavators and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment operator cards is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this position. These skills ensure safe, efficient excavation work while reducing the risk of accidents and supporting team success on construction sites.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level excavators on the job?

Entry level excavators often encounter challenges such as adapting to different types of heavy equipment, learning site-specific safety protocols, and managing varying soil or weather conditions. You'll need to quickly become comfortable following precise instructions from supervisors and communicating effectively with coworkers to ensure tasks are completed safely. There can also be physical demands, including long hours outdoors and lifting or moving materials. However, these challenges present excellent learning opportunities and help you build valuable skills for career growth in the construction industry.

How to get started as an entry level excavator?

To start as an entry-level excavator operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete on-the-job training or a vocational program, and earn a commercial driver's license if required. Gaining familiarity with excavation equipment, safety protocols, and basic construction skills is essential, and some employers may require certification from organizations like OSHA or NCCER.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator jobs in California?

For Entry Level Excavator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Excavator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Excavator job openings:

Entry Level Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,695 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

On-call Remediation Heavy Equipment Operator

GRAYMAR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LLC

Fontana, CA • On-site

$30/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description


GrayMar Environmental Services continues to expand its national footprint while remaining firmly grounded in the values that define who we are. We live by Respect, Integrity, Safe Work Practices, Excellence in Service, and a deep sense of Family - a commitment we proudly call RISE through Caring.


We specialize in environmental remediation, health and safety, hazardous materials management, waste disposal, and environmental emergency response. Through comprehensive and sustainable solutions, we help our clients and the communities we serve manage risk, maintain compliance, and protect the environment. Safety is our top priority, and we take pride in our highly skilled, dedicated team that works together to get the job done safely—every time.


At GrayMar, every employee is seen, heard, and valued, not as a number, but as a member of our family. Our culture supports continuous learning, professional development, and long-term career growth. We offer a robust benefits package that includes wellness programs, a 401(k) with company matching, spending account options, and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also provide company-paid life and disability coverage (long and short-term), ensuring our employees are supported both in and out of the field.


Inclusion at GrayMar is not just an initiative; it is fundamental to how we innovate and grow. We draw strength from diverse experiences and perspectives and foster an inclusive environment where every voice matters. As we continue to grow nationwide, we remain committed to delivering exceptional service to our customers while building a workplace where people feel safe, supported, and proud to belong.


Position Overview

The Heavy Equipment Operator I is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment in support of environmental remediation, excavation, site restoration, demolition, waste handling, and civil construction activities. This position performs equipment operations under supervision while adhering to all company safety procedures, environmental regulations, and project specifications.


Key Responsibilities

  • Operate equipment including: 
    • Excavators
    • Loaders
    • Forklift
    • Skid steers
    • Backhoes
    • Gradealls
    • Rollers
    • Water trucks
    • Off Road Haul Trucks
    • Articulating Haul Trucks
    • Compactors
    • Material Handler.
  • Travel up to 80% of the time for remediation projects across the United States, including extended periods of time away from home to support ongoing & emergency project work across the GrayMar organization.
  • Work extended hours operating heavy equipment, sometimes while wearing PPE.
  • Assist with ex-situ excavation, contaminated soil handling, stockpiling, loading, transportation, grading, backfilling, and site restoration activities under the direction of project leadership.
  • Perform equipment inspections, preventative maintenance checks, and maintain required equipment documentation.
  • Complete DOT-required vehicle inspections, logs, and transportation documentation, as applicable.
  • Follow project plans, specifications, and quality requirements to ensure successful project execution.
  • Maintain compliance with company policies, safety procedures, environmental regulations, and PPE requirements.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, project personnel, clients, and subcontractors.
  • Assist with general labor and field support activities as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • 2+ years of operating experience operating multiple types of construction and heavy equipment.
  • Basic understanding of remediation activities.
  • Must pass drug screening and criminal background check. 
  • Knowledge of safe equipment operating practices.
  • Ability to work safely in potentially contaminated environments.
  • Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and crew members.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.


Preferred Qualifications

  • OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Certification.
  • Valid Driver License with a clen driving record.
  • CDL Class A or B.
  • Experience on environmental remediation projects.
  • Experience with GPS machine control systems.
  • First Aid/CPR Certification.

 

Other Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to climb, bend, kneel, and work in confined spaces.
  • Ability to sit and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.


Benefits

  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 60 days of full-time employment.
  • 401(k) with possible yearly company match.
  • Company paid STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Company paid time off and holidays.
  • Career path programs and ongoing company paid training.
  • Family culture with positive and safe work environments.


Disclaimer: This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of GrayMar Environmental Services, LLC.


GrayMar Environmental Services, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment opportunities at GrayMar are based on one’s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job. All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, victims of a QAOV and those with a family member who is a victim of a QAOV, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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