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Entry Level Excavator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rogers Group

Groundsman

Roanoke, VA

$18/hr

Wages starting at $18.00/hr . for entry level candidates. Some positions require no experience and ... Previous experience operating heavy equipment - such as a skid steer, haul truck, excavator, or ...

Rogers Group

Groundsman

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Wages starting at $18.00/hr . for entry level candidates. Some positions require no experience and ... Previous experience operating heavy equipment - such as a skid steer, haul truck, excavator, or ...

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

Construction experience, particularly involving mission-critical facilities, underground infrastructure, tunneling, or large-scale excavation projects. * Experience with design reviews, engineering ...

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA

Construction experience, particularly involving mission-critical facilities, underground infrastructure, tunneling, or large-scale excavation projects. * Experience with design reviews, engineering ...

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Entry Level Excavator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do entry level excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level excavator in Virginia is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do entry level excavators make?

Entry-level excavators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,000 to $40,000 annually for full-time work. Wages can vary based on location, experience, and whether the worker has certifications or operates specialized equipment.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level excavator operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in construction or heavy equipment operation. These roles typically require on-the-job training, a valid driver's license, and sometimes certification in equipment operation, but they do not usually require a college degree.

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 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 or OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through supervised work and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) can also improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Excavator position, and why are they important?

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 job?

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 experience as an Excavator Operator?

Entry level excavator operators typically gain experience through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational programs that include hands-on practice with excavators and related equipment. 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 the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Excavator jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Excavator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Excavator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Excavator jobs in Virginia are:
Entry Level Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Excavator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,941 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Substation Construction Apprentice (Statewide)

Phillips, Inc.

Richmond, VA

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Phillips 66 rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Summary:

We are seeking Substation Construction Apprentices to join our T&D Services team in Alabama and Georgia. This is an entry level position that will enter the Phillips Inc. Apprenticeship Program.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Perform substation construction and maintenance with minimal to no supervision. This includes trenching, installing conduit, pulling cable, wiring of outdoor electrical equipment, installing ground grids, installing foundations, setting steel structures, installing buswork and conductors, welding aluminum buswork, setting and adjusting air switches, installing circuit breakers, and setting main power transformers.
  • Follow all verbal and written instructions from senior crew members.
  • Operate company vehicle.
  • Assist Electricians by making ready materials and stocking trucks.
  • Learn to operate aerial lifts, forklifts, skidsteers, backhoes, excavators, boom trucks, and other equipment used in the construction of electrical substations.
  • Perform services in a safe and timely manner.
  • Maintain company equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Requirements:

  • Clean driving record, Class A Commercial Driver's License preferred.
  • Effective communication skills.
  • Ability to perform manual labor i.e., digging, trenching, lifting, etc.
  • Be able to lift/move 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to pass a skills assessment at start of employment.
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check.

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 1 year construction experience.
  • Completion of an accredited Substation Apprentice Program, or 2-4 years in the T&D construction industry.

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position.

Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.

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