This is not an entry-level position - we're willing to pay above scale for proven talent. Excavator Operator (Travel - North Dakota Projects) Employer: Gladen Construction, Inc. - Laporte, MN Pay:
This is not an entry-level position - we're willing to pay above scale for proven talent. Excavator Operator (Travel - North Dakota Projects) Employer: Gladen Construction, Inc. - Laporte, MN Pay:
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Dozer Operator (Earthwork)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Dozer Operator (Earthwork)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)
Rochester, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Traveling Operator (Utilities)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Traveling Operator (Utilities)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Skidsteer Operator (Earthwork)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Skidsteer Operator (Earthwork)
Rogers, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Backhoe Operator (Utilities)
Duluth, MN · On-site
... entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned. * Helps identify any underground and overhead utilities that have been located/exposed before excavating.
Entry Level Excavator information
See Minnesota salary details
$13.42 - $15.90
1% of jobs
$15.90 - $18.39
5% of jobs
$18.39 - $20.87
16% of jobs
$21.09 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$20.87 - $23.35
24% of jobs
The median wage is $23.74 / hr.
$23.35 - $25.83
21% of jobs
$27.08 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.83 - $28.32
15% of jobs
$28.32 - $30.80
7% of jobs
$30.80 - $33.28
5% of jobs
$33.28 - $35.76
3% of jobs
$35.76 - $38.25
1% of jobs
$38.25 - $40.73
1% of jobs
$13
$25
$40
How much do entry level excavator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in Minnesota is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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.
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 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.
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 a training program or apprenticeship to learn equipment operation, and earn relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build skills and understanding of construction sites and machinery. Familiarity with tools, safety protocols, and physical fitness are also important for success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator jobs in Minnesota? For Entry Level Excavator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator jobs in Minnesota are:
$53.05/hr
Full-time, Per diem
Re-posted 9 days ago
Job description
Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled Excavator Operator for infrastructure projects across North Dakota.
Applicants must have experience setting RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels. While no live utility work is involved, pipe experience is essential. Safety and situational awareness around laborers and trench crews is non-negotiable.
This is not an entry-level position - we're willing to pay above scale for proven talent.
Excavator Operator (Travel - North Dakota Projects)
Employer: Gladen Construction, Inc. - Laporte, MN
Pay: Base pay starting at North Dakota Prevailing Wage
(Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)
Willing to negotiate higher rate for experienced operators
Per Diem: $50 per working day
Schedule: 10-12 hours/day, 5-6 days/week - overtime expected
Travel Required: 100% (Per diem only; lodging not provided)
Seasonal Position: Work anticipated through fall, weather permitting
Responsibilities
- - Operate excavators for trenching and placing RCP pipe, boxes, and barrels
- - Work confidently around laborers and pipe crews with safety in mind
- - Perform light equipment maintenance (fluids, greasing, inspections)
- - Follow the layout provided for excavation and placement
- - Use radios and hand signals to communicate with ground crew
- - Follow proper trench safety and crew protocols
- - Contribute to a positive team environment and assist where needed
Requirements
- - Full-time travel throughout North Dakota
- - Valid Driver's License (Class A CDL preferred)
- - Excavator experience in utility/pipe/culvert work
- - Familiarity with rigging and laser levels
- - Physically capable of working long outdoor shifts
- - Commitment to safety and collaboration
- EEO Drug Free Work environment
- Position is considered Safety Sensitive
What We Offer
- Total compensation Base pay starts at $53.05/hr
- (Currently $32.40 + $20.65/hr fringe = $53.05/hr total compensation)
- - Negotiable higher rate for highly skilled operators
- - $50/day per diem (only for days worked)
- - Regular overtime, consistent work
- - A solid, skilled crew and company that values operators
How to Apply:
Apply directly at www.gladenconstructioninc.com/careers
or email your resume to Jaron@gladenconstructioninc.com
Company Information
Gladen Construction, Inc. is a third generation family owned company in north central Minnesota, that's involved in all types of Heavy and Highway Construction. Our main office and shop is located 14 miles south of Bemidji, MN on US highway 71.Â
As a company we have talents and expertise that enable us to be more diversified, such as all types of Excavating, Grading, Large Box Culverts, Piping, Utilities, Reclamation, State, County, Township, Railroad, and Mining work. Our employees have good ideas and have the work ethic of our parents and grandparents.  Gladen Construction Inc. is proud of the work we do and personnel that motivate our company. With our fleet of modern equipment, a very competent group of supervisory personnel and experienced operators, Gladen Construction Inc. is confident that we can do any type of earth moving projects in the Highway and Heavy Construction fields.Â
GLADEN CONSTRUCTION, INC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND STRONGLY ENCOURAGES WOMEN, MINORITIES AND VETERANS TO APPLY.
About Gladen Construction
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Construction
Company size
11 - 50 Employees
Headquarters location
Laporte, MN, US