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Entry Level Excavator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Grade A Construction

Field

Mount Juliet, TN

$19 - $21/hr

Operate construction equipment when qualified, which may include skid steers, excavators, dozers ... Construction experience preferred but not required for entry-level labor positions. * Heavy ...

New

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Nashville, TN

$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

Nashville, TN · 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

Nashville, TN · 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 ...

Rawso Constructors

Field Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Position Summary The Field Engineer is an entry-level field leadership role designed for ... Learn to operate heavy equipment (excavators, dozers, loaders, rollers, etc.) under supervision

Rawso Constructors

Field Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Position Summary The Field Engineer is an entry-level field leadership role designed for ... Learn to operate heavy equipment (excavators, dozers, loaders, rollers, etc.) under supervision

Rawso Constructors

Field Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Position Summary The Field Engineer is an entry-level field leadership role designed for ... Learn to operate heavy equipment (excavators, dozers, loaders, rollers, etc.) under supervision

ADB

Travel Laborer I*

Nashville, TN · On-site

$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 ...

Walker Excavating

Civil Estimator

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Conduct occasional site visits to support estimation accuracy Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in civil estimating * Familiarity with cost estimating and bid preparation processes

All JobsExcavator JobsEntry Level Excavator JobsEntry Level Excavator Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Excavator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do entry level excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in Tennessee is $23.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $25.96 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,381 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Field

Grade A Construction

Mount Juliet, TN

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Perform general construction labor and assist with daily field operations.
  • Load, unload, move, and organize materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Assist with site preparation, grading, excavation, and other construction activities.
  • Operate hand and power tools safely.
  • Assist Foremen, Superintendents, Equipment Operators, and other crew members as needed.
  • Operate construction equipment when qualified, which may include skid steers, excavators, dozers, loaders, rollers, and other heavy equipment.
  • Perform basic equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site.
  • Follow project plans, Foreman instructions, and company safety procedures.
  • Perform physically demanding work, including lifting, carrying, bending, climbing, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Be willing to learn new skills and take on additional responsibilities as experience grows.


RequirementsQualifications
  • Construction experience preferred but not required for entry-level labor positions.
  • Heavy equipment operating experience is a plus.
  • Ability to safely lift and carry construction materials.
  • Comfortable working outdoors and performing physically demanding tasks.
  • Dependable transportation and reliable attendance.
  • Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a crew.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
  • Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.


Benefits
  • Competitive Pay
  • Weekly Pay
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Opportunities for Overtime
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Apprenticeship & Skills Development Opportunities
  • Opportunities to Learn and Operate Heavy Equipment
  • Steady, Full-Time Work
  • Company-Provided Safety Equipment/PPE
  • Employee Referral Opportunities