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Excavating Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Ultimate LLC

Excavator Operator

Murfreesboro, TN · 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 ...

Moody Excavating

Shop Technician

Christiana, TN · On-site

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 ...

Metro Plumbing and HVAC

Excavation Tech

Chattanooga, TN · 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 ...

USA Hometown Experts

Excavation Tech

Chattanooga, TN · 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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All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Tennessee

Excavating information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 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 are popular job titles related to Excavating jobs in Tennessee? For Excavating jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Excavating job openings:
Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,772 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Loudon, TN • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Plumbing Excavator Operator

Bio Plumbing
Location: Loudon, TN
Pay Range: $30–32 per Hour (DOE) + Overtime + Benefits

Build More Than Trenches—Build a Career.

We're a growing, family-owned residential plumbing company looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our team. If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations and enjoy working alongside a hardworking crew, we'd love to meet you.

This is a hands-on position where you'll play a critical role in residential plumbing projects, ensuring excavation work is completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to homeowners' properties.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • 3+ years of excavator operating experience, preferably in residential plumbing or underground utilities.
  • Experience digging around existing utilities and working from utility locates.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently in residential neighborhoods.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to assist the plumbing team when not operating equipment.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • CDL is a plus but not required.

Benefits

Why Join Our Team?

  • Competitive Pay: $30–32 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stable, year-round work
  • Modern, well-maintained equipment
  • Supportive, family-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for advancement as our company continues to grow

Join Our Team

We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, values safety, and enjoys being part of a team that delivers quality service to homeowners every day. If you're dependable, experienced, and ready for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build the infrastructure that keeps our community running!