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Excavating Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

This position requires efficient excavator work in all types of soils and conditions, performing pre and post inspections, and completing assigned tasks safely and efficiently. This is a safety ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

Showing results 21-40

Excavating information

See Arizona salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavating is a physically demanding job that involves operating heavy machinery and working outdoors, often in challenging conditions. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with relevant certifications and skills in equipment operation and safety protocols. The career can lead to advancement into supervisory roles or specialized construction positions.

Is there good money in excavation?

Excavating is generally a well-paying trade, with wages depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled excavators who operate heavy machinery and have safety training tend to earn higher wages, and the job often offers opportunities for overtime and advancement.

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 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,970 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Production Excavator Operator

Phillips, Inc.

Morenci, AZ • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 13 days ago


Phillips 66 rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Wages:
$25 - $35 per Hour
$135 Daily Per Diem
Shift and Schedule:
5-6-Day Work Week
12 Hour Shifts
Summary:
Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient excavator work in all types of soils and conditions, performing pre and post inspections, and completing assigned tasks safely and efficiently.
This is a safety sensitive position that is responsible for operating heavy construction equipment with knowledge of hazards and safety precautions and awareness of cut/fill operations. Performance of routine inspections and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refer defects or repairs to supervision is required daily.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Under direct supervision, the Heavy Equipment Operator performs earthmoving and support duties in a production environment
  • Experience in earthmoving and heavy construction with knowledge of cut/fill operations from a variety of projects
  • Observes and follows all safety rules and procedures, including wearing PPE
  • Demonstrated ability to achieve results within a team environment with minimal supervision at times
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • High level of attention to detail and excellent follow-up skills
  • Experience in earthmoving and heavy construction with knowledge of cut/fill operations from a variety of projects
  • Get off and on equipment using 3 points of contact
  • Work safely on slopes throughout the jobsite
  • Work safely in all weather conditions
  • The ability to work in a team environment
  • Judge distances and slopes accurately
  • Work with other project employees to meet the project's safety, environment, and production targets

Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 5 years' experience in the construction industry operating 349-sized, or larger, excavators
  • Experience with Trimble GPS
  • Ability to read and understand stake grades and plans
  • Ability to effectively communicate to ground personnel and supervision
  • MSHA Part 48 training preferred

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.
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Email: recruiting@phillipsinc.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, please choose your language: English - Spanish - Arabic - Chinese
English - Spanish - Chinese
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

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