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Excavating Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and ...

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Mayer, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and ...

Production Excavator Operator

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Production Excavator Operator Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient ...

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ

$21.25 - $28/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

... digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate * Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading ...

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Excavating information

See Arizona salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Arizona is $22.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $25.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavating job?

Excavating jobs involve the removal of earth, rock, or other materials from a site to create space for construction, landscaping, or mining projects. Workers use heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes to dig foundations, trenches, or clear land. These jobs require knowledge of equipment operation, safety protocols, and the ability to read site plans. Excavating professionals often work on residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, contributing to the initial phases of building and development.

What is the difference between Excavating vs Demolition?

AspectExcavatingDemolition
Primary FocusDigging, earthmoving, site preparationBreaking down and removing structures
Skills & CertificationsOperating heavy machinery, safety trainingHeavy equipment operation, safety protocols
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoorConstruction, industrial, sometimes indoor
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsBuilding removal, renovation projects

Excavating involves earthmoving and site preparation, while demolition focuses on tearing down existing structures. Both roles require heavy machinery operation and safety certifications, but they serve different project needs within the construction industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator operator?

Excavator Operators need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety regulations, and often require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or certification. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, hydraulic machinery, and maintenance tools is typically necessary for efficient work. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These skills and qualifications ensure safe excavation, prevent site accidents, and contribute to timely and precise project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by excavating professionals on construction sites?

Excavating professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected underground utilities, varying soil conditions, and adverse weather that can impact project timelines. Effective communication with project managers, utility companies, and other trades is essential to address these issues promptly and safely. Additionally, strict adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations is crucial, as excavation work carries significant risk. Working collaboratively within a team helps mitigate these challenges and ensures projects proceed efficiently.
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Excavating job openings:
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,970 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Excavator Operator

OM MANUFACTURING LLC

Mayer, AZ

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Location:

Mayer, Arizona

Pay Range:

$24.00 - $30.00 per hour, DOE

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Schedule:

Monday - Friday, overtime as needed

Reports To:

Foreman / Superintendent

Position Summary

OM Construction is looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our crew in Mayer, AZ. This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and knows how to work alongside a crew to keep the job moving.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

• Operate track and wheeled excavators to dig, trench, grade, and backfill per project specifications

• Perform equipment inspections before and after each shift and report any mechanical issues

• Safely maneuver equipment in tight work zones and around underground utilities

• Adjust dig depth and grade using onboard controls and hand signals from ground crew

Site Work

• Execute excavation tasks including trenching for utilities, footings, and drainage

• Assist with grading and rough shaping of sites as directed by the foreman

• Load trucks and move material around the job site as needed

• Coordinate with laborers, operators, and supervisors to maintain workflow and site safety

Safety

• Follow all site safety procedures, company policies, and OSHA regulations at all times

• Complete daily pre-operation inspection checklist and log any deficiencies

• Call out or dig carefully around marked utility lines and maintain required clearances

• Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or incidents to the foreman immediately

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 2 years of hands-on excavator operation experience in a construction environment

• HDPE Experience working with HDPE in underground utilities, including irrigation systems and pipe installation

• Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, blueprints, and site plans

• Comfortable working in varying weather conditions and on rough terrain

• Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen

• Valid driver's license

Preferred

• Experience with utility trenching, site grading, or land development projects

• OSHA 10 certification

• Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay rate $24.00 - $30.00 per hour, commensurate with experience

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with company match through Slavic

• Paid time off