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Excavating Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$31.48 - $34.84/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement ...

Excavator Operator

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$31.48 - $34.84/hr

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement ...

Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance. * Assist with excavation and/or hand excavation of contaminated soils. * Perform numerous manual duties ...

Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance. * Assist with excavation and/or hand excavation of contaminated soils. * Perform numerous manual duties ...

Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance. * Assist with excavation and/or hand excavation of contaminated soils. * Perform numerous manual duties ...

Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance. * Assist with excavation and/or hand excavation of contaminated soils. * Perform numerous manual duties ...

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

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Excavating information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $25.87 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 near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Excavating job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,368 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Excavator Operator

PBSGC Marine Group

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Barge Mounted Excavator position is responsible for operating, repairing, and preventive maintenance of the barge mounted excavator. Primary task of operation being but not limited to placement of rock from barges. This position may require operation of other heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, off road dump trucks, bulldozers, and various other types of heavy equipment used in civil engineering. Barge mounted excavator operators primary function is unloading and placing rock in the Inland and Western waterways. Successful candidate must be able to work and communicate well with tender boat crew and line boat crew. This position requires the ability to recognize hazards, communicate such hazards to supervisors, have an understanding of river conditions, the ability to recognize marine rigging and evaluate conditions.

Successful candidate must have the attitude and ability to establish and maintain positive and effective relationships with all crewmembers. This position also requires effective communication skills. The Barge Mounted Excavator Operator along with the assigned SSHO, will participate in Safety Huddles, Safety Meetings and assist in the development of Job Safety Analysis's (JSA'S) to fulfill our goal of "Incident Free Operations".

A minimum of two years' experience with working in a marine environment on the Inland waterways and especially the Mississippi River is beneficial. Position will consist of severe duty marine conditions including inclement weather.

Pay will be commensurate with experience. Competitive benefit package available with employer participation including health, dental, and life insurance as well as 401K retirement savings plan after waiting period.

Successful applicant must complete on-boarding physical and exertion function tests with physical therapist after acceptance of offer to evaluate ability to meet the physical essential functions of the position.

Requirements:

Minimum of three years of heavy (min. 80,000 lb.) equipment operator experience.

Must have the ability and be willing to work outside in extreme weather conditions.

Must have ability and willingness to work 10-12 hours per day.

Flexibility and willingness to work extended duty or "hitch" as work and conditions require.

Ability and willingness to perform manual labor including, ability to climb ladders, stairs, perform repetitive bending and stooping.

Must be comfortable working over and adjacent to water and willingness to participate in water rescue.

Must possess High school diploma or GED.

Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Must be available for consistent duty.

Must provide transportation to the assigned job location.

Pine Bluff Sand and Gravel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes Affirmative Action for Females/Veterans/Minorities/Disabled. To request reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, contact ApplicantAssist@pbsgc.com or call 1-888-870-8296.

Please note: This employment position may be considered a Safety Sensitive Position related to the operation of equipment or working in proximity of operating equipment, working over or adjacent to water, working at a height, or a particular assignment regulated by license, credential, or contract which stipulates the position or work as Safety Sensitive.