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Excavating Contractors Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Over the Edge Excavating is an established Northern New Jersey excavation contractor seeking an experienced Foreman to lead commercial, municipal, and utility projects. Responsibilities * Lead daily ...

Equipment Operator

Green Lake, WI

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

About Kinas Excavating Kinas Excavating, Inc. is a trusted excavation contractor serving the Green Lake region with a reputation for quality workmanship and dependable service. Our team takes pride ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Wayland, MI · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Cherry Valley Excavating is a residential excavation contractor in business for 30 years. We are seeking Heavy Equipment Operators proficient in operating Excavators, Skidsteers, and Bulldozers. We ...

Landmark Excavating (landmarkexc.com) is a leading general contractor specializing in heavy civil projects, including pipeline and infrastructure installation. Since our founding in 2003, we have ...

Landmark Excavating (landmarkexc.com) is a leading general contractor specializing in heavy civil projects, including pipeline and infrastructure installation. Since our founding in 2003, we have ...

Opportunity to grow with an established excavation company About Kinas Excavating Kinas Excavating, Inc. is a trusted excavation contractor serving Wisconsin with a strong reputation for quality work ...

Excavator Operator

Bath, PA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

... Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking skilled excavator operators to join our sitework construction team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience operating ...

Excavator Operator

Bath, PA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Job Overview Muschlitz Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking skilled Excavator Operators to join our sitework construction team. The ideal candidate will have ...

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Excavating Contractors information

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How much do excavating contractors jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating contractors in the United States is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do excavating contractors make?

Excavating contractors typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled contractors with certifications and specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially in urban or high-demand areas.

What challenges do excavating contractors face on job sites, and how can they be managed?

Excavating Contractors often encounter challenges such as unexpected underground utilities, varying soil conditions, and changing weather. Managing these issues typically involves thorough pre-site surveys, close coordination with utility companies, and flexibility in scheduling. Success in this role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to safety protocols, and effective communication with project managers and other trades to keep projects on track and minimize delays.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an excavating contractor?

To thrive as an Excavating Contractor, you need expertise in site preparation, equipment operation, and an understanding of construction drawings, often supported by relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and GPS-based grading systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help manage site challenges and coordinate effectively with crews and clients. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and accurate completion of excavation projects in compliance with regulations and client expectations.

How to get a job in excavating contractors?

To get a job as an excavating contractor, candidates typically need relevant experience operating heavy machinery, such as excavators, and may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized certifications. Building a strong work history in construction or excavation, demonstrating safety awareness, and applying through contractors or job boards are common steps to secure employment in this field.

What is an excavating contractor?

Excavating contractors are professionals or companies that specialize in moving earth and preparing land for construction projects. Their work includes digging, grading, trenching, and site clearing to create foundations for buildings, roads, and utilities. They operate heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes to complete these tasks safely and efficiently. Excavating contractors play a crucial role in both residential and commercial construction projects by ensuring the site is properly prepared before any building begins.

What is the difference between Excavating Contractors vs Excavation Laborers?

AspectExcavating ContractorsExcavation Laborers
CredentialsLicenses, certifications, experience in heavy equipmentBasic physical fitness, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationAssistants on construction sites, manual labor
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, excavation specialistsGeneral contractors, subcontractors

Excavating Contractors oversee excavation projects, operate heavy machinery, and manage entire excavation operations. Excavation Laborers perform manual tasks, assist with equipment, and support the contractors. While both work on construction sites, contractors handle planning and management, whereas laborers focus on physical labor.

More about Excavating Contractors jobs
What cities are hiring for Excavating Contractors jobs? Cities with the most Excavating Contractors job openings:
What states have the most Excavating Contractors jobs? States with the most job openings for Excavating Contractors jobs include:
Infographic showing various Excavating Contractors job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,248 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

FOREMAN - EXCAVATION & UTILITIES

Over the Edge Excavating

West Milford, NJ • On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Over the Edge Excavating is an established Northern New Jersey excavation contractor seeking an experienced Foreman to lead commercial, municipal, and utility projects.

Responsibilities

  • Lead daily field operations and manage crews
  • Read and interpret construction plans
  • Coordinate labor, equipment, trucking, and materials
  • Maintain safe, organized, and productive jobsites
  • Ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule
  • Communicate daily progress with management

Qualifications

  • Excavation and utility experience required
  • Previous Foreman experience preferred
  • Ability to read construction plans
  • Strong leadership and organizational skills
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • CDL preferred, but not required

Compensation & Benefits

  • $50–$65 per hour, based on experience
  • Employer-sponsored health insurance
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid sick time
  • Overtime available
  • Bi-weekly pay
  • Stable, year-round work

We’re looking for someone who can step in, lead a crew, and run projects safely and efficiently. Experienced Utility & Excavation Foremen encouraged to apply. Top pay for candidates who can run projects independently.