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Excavating Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Merlo Construction Company

Excavator - Main Line

Milford, MI · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Main Line Excavator Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation company. Our company culture is built upon teamwork - from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the ...

Phillips, Inc.

Mini Excavator Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

The Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating mini excavators and other related equipment to execute various construction and earthwork projects. This role requires precision, adherence to ...

OWL Services

Excavation Laborer

Clarkston, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Excavation Laborer is responsible for performing excavation tasks on construction sites and ensuring proper removal and transportation of soil and materials. This role requires expertise in ...

OWL Services

Excavation Laborer

Clarkston, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Excavation Laborer is responsible for performing excavation tasks on construction sites and ensuring proper removal and transportation of soil and materials. This role requires expertise in ...

Merlo Construction

Excavator - Main Line

Brighton, MI

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation Company. Our Company culture is built upon teamwork - from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the trade. Together we do ...

The Manthei Group

Excavator Operator - 2nd Shift

Petoskey, MI · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavator Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Petoskey, MI, 49770 The Excavator Operator will be responsible for operating heavy equipment, such as excavators and front end loaders, to move logs, bark ...

The Manthei Group

Excavator Operator - 2nd Shift

Petoskey, MI · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavator Operator - 2nd Shift Location: Petoskey, MI, 49770 The Excavator Operator will be responsible for operating heavy equipment, such as excavators and front end loaders, to move logs, bark ...

Merlo Construction

Excavator - Main Line

Brighton, MI

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation Company. Our Company culture is built upon teamwork - from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the trade. Together we do ...

Merlo Construction

Excavator - Main Line

Brighton, MI · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation Company. Our Company culture is built upon teamwork - from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the trade. Together we do ...

Merlo Construction

Excavator - Main Line

Brighton, MI · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation Company. Our Company culture is built upon teamwork - from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the trade. Together we do ...

Cherry Valley Excavating LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wayland, MI · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Asphalt Specialists, LLC.

Excavation Workers

Pontiac, MI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The excavation labor is responsible for removing of earth, rock or the materials in the ground and assist the heavy equipment operator to complete the task as a team. Must have reliable ...

Slusarski Excavating & Paving

Pipelayer

Adrian, MI · On-site

$23 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, excavators, and front loader trucks to assist in pipeline installation. * Read and interpret blueprints to ensure accurate placement of ...

ASI Paving

Excavation Workers

Pontiac, MI · On-site

We are now accepting applications for Excavation Laborers with experience to perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites The excavation labor is responsible for removing of earth ...

Asphalt Specialists, LLC.

Excavation Workers

Pontiac, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The excavation labor is responsible for removing of earth, rock or the materials in the ground and assist the heavy equipment operator to complete the task as a team. Must have reliable ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Michigan

Excavating information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Michigan is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.46 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 are popular job titles related to Excavating jobs in Michigan?

For Excavating jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Excavating job openings:

Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,995 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Excavator - Main Line

Merlo Construction Company

Milford, MI • On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Main Line Excavator

Merlo Construction is a high-growth concrete and excavation company. Our company culture is built upon teamwork – from the top leaders to the newest employees just learning the trade. Together we do challenging work – and can see the fruits of our labor on a daily basis.

Why work for Merlo Construction: The owners of Merlo Construction lead with a “team-first” approach and make it a priority to get to know everyone. Advantages of working with this family-oriented contractor include the opportunity to work on exciting projects, daily interaction with senior leadership, team building events, and the ability to grow within the company. Merlo also provides medical insurance, a retirement plan, and formal training opportunities.

Merlo Construction is looking to add a Main Line Excavator to our team. Daily tasks include but are not limited to: maintain production goals, excavate, backfill, compact and set pipe for site utility operations, ability to load off road trucks and/or semi’s, excavate for underground utilities, set and pull trench shield box, maintain all jobsites in a clean, neat, and orderly manner, ensure all tools and machinery are cleaned and maintained on a daily basis.

3-5 years of experience required.

At Merlo, we offer a comprehensive compensation package for all full-time team members that includes the following:

  • Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • HSA Program
  • 401(k) Program with Employer Matching Contribution
  • Financial Planning Services
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • 6 Paid Holidays
  • PTO Program

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Preferred)

Merlo Construction is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical or mental disability, height, weight, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other factor protected by federal, state, or local law.

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