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Excavating Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Murfreesboro, TN ยท On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Excavator Operator - Murfreesboro, TN Pay Range: $30.00 - $32.00 per hour We are looking for skilled craftsmen to add to our team of dedicated, safe, productive, and proven craftsmen. Ultimate LLC ...

Traveling Excavator Operator

Knoxville, TN

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Proficiency in safely excavating trenches from 5 to over 30 feet deep while maintaining required grades and slopes for gravity flow. * Demonstrated experience handling and installing VCP, RCP, PVC ...

New

Moody Excavating, LLC is currently seeking applications to fill an open position for heavy equipment master level III mechanic. We are looking for long-term candidates who value the opportunity for ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bon Aqua, TN ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Vacation Job Summary Looking to hire a qualified and experienced operator Trackhoe, dozer, mini excavator, skidsteer, traxcavator We do full site jobs from erosion, to grading, to storm. We also do ...

New

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bon Aqua, TN ยท On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Vacation Job Summary Looking to hire a qualified and experienced operator Trackhoe, dozer, mini excavator, skidsteer, traxcavator We do full site jobs from erosion, to grading, to storm. We also do ...

New

Lead Excavator Operator

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

... such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

Lead Excavator Operator

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

... such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

Lead Excavator Operator

Nashville, TN

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

... such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may perform functions of a laborer as required. WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

Excavation Tech

Chattanooga, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Excavation Crew Member - Be a Part of the Dig Team at Metro! Description: Ready to work hard, learn fast, and build something real? At Metro Plumbing, Heating & Air, we're growing our Excavation Crew ...

Excavation Tech

Chattanooga, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Excavation Crew Member - Be a Part of the Dig Team at Metro! Description: Ready to work hard, learn fast, and build something real? At Metro Plumbing, Heating & Air, w ...

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Excavating information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Tennessee is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $24.42 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 Tennessee are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Excavating job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,772 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Murfreesboro, TN โ€ข On-site

Ultimate LLC
Software Developmentย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$30 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Excavator Operator โ€“ Murfreesboro, TN

Pay Range: $30.00 - $32.00 per hour

We are looking for skilled craftsmen to add to our team of dedicated, safe, productive, and proven craftsmen. Ultimate LLC provides weekly pay for all employees and optional direct deposit.

Responsibilities:

  • Excavation operations

  • Trenching and grading

  • Utility installation

  • Site preparation

  • Reading site plans

  • Operating excavators

  • Digging foundations

  • Backfilling trenches

  • Soil movement

  • Equipment inspections

  • Working with crews

  • Following safety procedures

Requirements:

  • Excavator operating experience

  • Heavy equipment knowledge

  • Valid driver's license

  • Background check

  • Drug screen

Benefits:

  • Weekly pay

  • Direct deposit

  • Health insurance

  • Dental and vision coverage

  • 401k

  • Paid time off

  • Referral bonus program

  • Pay increase based on craftsmanship

  • Tool purchase program

  • PPE reimbursement program

  • Paid OSHA training

  • Long term work

  • ID theft protection