1

Excavating Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

This role requires operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes to move earth, materials, and debris on construction sites. Responsibilities: * Operate heavy equipment ...

This position will focus on operating heavy equipment, including excavators and dozers * The work will be conducted on live roadways, requiring a high level of safety awareness and the ability to ...

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 ...

Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA

$44K - $59K/yr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid steer, forklifts, tractors & heavy-duty truck (3 tons and up). with additional training in excavation ...

Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$30.25/hr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid steer, forklifts, tractors & heavy-duty truck (3 tons and up). with additional training in excavation ...

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Operator

Prairieville, LA

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Operates and monitors performance of heavy construction type equipment, such as bulldozers, loaders, skid steers, excavators, marsh buggies, forklifts, shovels, etc. * Learn and follow safety ...

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and safety ...

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Manchac Contractors

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

We are seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our construction team. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating various types of heavy machinery, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a strong commitment to safety and efficiency. This role requires operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes to move earth, materials, and debris on construction sites.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently, following manufacturer guidelines and site-specific procedures.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on equipment, identifying and reporting any issues or malfunctions.
  • Read and interpret construction plans, blueprints, and site markings to determine excavation and grading requirements.
  • Excavate, grade, and level soil and other materials to prepare construction sites for foundations, roads, and other structures.
  • Load and unload materials, such as dirt, gravel, and debris, onto trucks or other transport vehicles.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to safety protocols and contributing to a professional appearance of the job site.
  • Follow all safety regulations and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
  • Operate equipment in various weather and terrain conditions, adapting to changing site conditions as needed.

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 3 years of operating an excavator and a bulldozer is required.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain necessary equipment certifications (e.g., OSHA, NCCCO).
  • Strong understanding of construction site safety protocols and equipment operation procedures.
  • Physical ability to perform manual tasks, including climbing in and out of equipment, standing, bending, and working in various weather conditions.

Company Description

We are a Baton Rouge-based civil contractor that self-performs site preparation, earthwork, underground utilities, soil stabilization, foundations, paving, and structural concrete. Our fundamental strength is the ability to strategically plan and deliver each project as intended.