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Entry Level Excavator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Locator

Louisville, KY

$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 ...

ADB Companies

Travel Laborer II

Hazard, KY · On-site

$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 ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Locator

Hazard, KY

$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 ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Hazard, KY

$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 ...

ADB Companies

Travel Laborer II

Hazard, KY · On-site

$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 ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II

Hazard, KY

$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 ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Louisville, KY

$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 ...

Jobs for Humanity

Laborers

Louisville, KY · On-site

$32K - $40K/yr

... - Entry level Location: Louisville, KY, United States Date Posted: Aug 31, 2024 Job ID: R21270 Job ... mini-excavator work - Reads underground utility locates and ensures safe digging practices are ...

ADB

Travel Laborer I*

Hazard, KY

$20/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer to provide entry level outside plant (OSP) installation support on various ... Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator ...

ADB

Travel Laborer I*

Louisville, KY

$20/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer to provide entry level outside plant (OSP) installation support on various ... Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator ...

ADB

Travel Laborer I

Hazard, KY

$20/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer to provide entry level outside plant (OSP) installation support on various ... Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator ...

Jobs for Humanity

Laborers

Louisville, KY · On-site

$32K - $40K/yr

... - Entry level Location: Louisville, KY, United States Date Posted: Aug 31, 2024 Job ID: R21270 Job ... mini-excavator work - Reads underground utility locates and ensures safe digging practices are ...

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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 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in Kentucky is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.86 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 Kentucky?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Kentucky are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,255 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Two Year Apprentice

Stewart Richey Contracting Group

Bowling Green, KY • On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Thank you for your interest in Stewart Richey! Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by our HR Department.
Position Description
As a Two-Year Apprentice, you will be responsible for performing intermediate-level grading and site preparation tasks in support of utility construction projects. This position is intended for individuals with prior skilled labor experience who are continuing to develop proficiency in grading operations, equipment use, and job site organization. The apprentice supports foremen and equipment operators while leaning advanced techniques, including introductory GPS use on dozers and excavators, and contributes to maintaining a safe, efficient, and well-organized job site. Duties and responsibilities include:
  • Perform moderate-level grading activities, including rough grading, fine grading, and trench preparation under supervision.
  • Operate small excavation and grading equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Assist with setup, basic operation, and learning of GPS systems used on dozers and excavators.
  • Maintain equipment cleanliness and assist with tracking routine cleaning and basic maintenance activities.
  • Identify job site issues or inefficiencies and suggest potential solutions to supervision.
  • Assist with job site organization, including material staging, equipment placement, and traffic flow.
  • Support equipment operators by spotting, measuring, and maintaining safe work zones.
  • Follow project plans, grade stakes, and direction from foremen or supervisors.
  • Maintain a safe working environment for themselves and others by following safety procedures and company policies.
  • Participate in safety meetings, training sessions, and skill-development activities.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned to support project completion.

Position Requirements
Education and/or Work Experience:
  • Minimum of 2 years of skilled laborer experience in construction or grading-related work.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating small excavation or grading equipment.
  • Entry-level experience or exposure to GPS systems for dozers and excavators preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform moderate-level grading tasks.
  • Proficient knowledge of job site organization and material staging.
  • Ability to identify problems and suggest solutions.

Physical Requirements:
  • Work may involve standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping, or reaching for extended periods of time.
  • Work may require lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling materials and tools up to 50 pounds.
  • Work may be performed outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and exposure to dust, noise, and uneven terrain.
  • Work may involve working near and operating heavy equipment.
  • Work may require wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, reflective vests, and safety glasses.
  • Work may involve performing tasks in trenches, confined spaces, or elevated areas.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Stewart Richey provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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