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Excavating Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Dirt Crew Foreman

Highland Park, MI · On-site

$48 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You can operate equipment when the team needs your help (dozer, excavator, grader, scraper, etc...) * You know your way around blueprints * You have experience with Trimble GPS * You lead with a ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Highland Park, MI · On-site

$34 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Gillett Excavating In just ten years, we've grown from a small residential startup into a company trusted to build the infrastructure that millions of people rely on every day, most of it ...

Dirt Crew Foreman

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$48 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You can operate equipment when the team needs your help (dozer, excavator, grader, scraper, etc...) * You know your way around blueprints * You have experience with Trimble GPS * You lead with a ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$34 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About Gillett Excavating In just ten years, we've grown from a small residential startup into a company trusted to build the infrastructure that millions of people rely on every day, most of it ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavator * Bulldozer * Loader * Skidsteer * Roller CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is also desired. Benefits include * PTO Days * Health Insurance * Dental ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavator * Bulldozer * Loader * Skidsteer * Roller CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is also desired. Benefits include * PTO Days * Health Insurance * Dental ...

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Pipe Layer - Excavation & Utilities

Lansing, MI · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pipe Layer - Excavation & Utilities Location: Lansing, MI Pay: $24-$32/ HR Join One of Mid-Michigan's Leading Excavation Contractors Clark Companies is looking for an experienced Pipe Layer to work ...

Operator / Excavator - 35,000 lbs.

Detroit, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Excavating for service reconnections * Setting and positioning pipe bursting equipment * Loading and unloading pipe and materials * Assisting with trench backfill and restoration Pipe Bursting ...

HYDRO EXCAVATION TRUCK OPERATOR

Plymouth, MI

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Duke's is looking for a Hydro Excavation Truck Operator to join our Plymouth, MI-based crew! As the Hydro Excavation Truck Operator, you will support critical underground utility projects. Our ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavating information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 cities in Michigan are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Excavating job openings:

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.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

Metro Engineering Solutions, LLC ("MES") is looking for a seasonal Excavation Laborer to join our team! This role will support a variety of project and the responsibilities with include:


  • Operate safely and efficiently, adhering to all safety protocols and using all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Perform manual excavation by hand-digging holes completely around utility poles.
  • Assist the crew Foreman with additional tasks as assigned.
  • Transport equipment and materials to and from utility pole locations.
  • Lift and carry up to 30 lbs. over distances of up to 150 feet.
  • Engage in intensive manual labor in varying weather conditions and terrain.



Requirements

  • Must be willing to travel to various job sites as required.
  • Must have reliable transportation to and from job locations.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be able to work in varying outdoor conditions, including rugged terrain and diverse weather environments.

Metro Engineering Solutions, LLC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.