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Excavating Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Mr. Rooter

Excavation Crew Member and Labor

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

Rooter Plumbing expects of the Excavation Crew Member The role of the Excavation Crew Member is to perform general labor as part of a small team to repair and replace sewer and storm lines. The ...

Glass Roots Construction

Excavator Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator Glass Roots Construction (GRC) is a first-class fiber optic utility construction firm founded by career telecom and construction professionals. We leverage the latest technologies ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites. * Conduct routine maintenance checks and troubleshoot mechanical issues to ensure equipment ...

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Subcom Excavation & Utilities

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites. * Conduct routine maintenance checks and troubleshoot mechanical issues to ensure equipment ...

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All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Portland, OR

Excavating information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$25

$35

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Portland, OR is $25.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.56 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 Portland, OR? For Excavating jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Excavating job openings:
Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,314 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Excavation Laborer

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Tualatin, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Roto-Rooter rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

180th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Excavation Technician/Laborer

Roto-Rooter, America’s premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.  We are proud of our 90-year history of success, but it’s our future that has us so excited!

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial excavations that resolve plumbing issues resulting from compromised or broken plumbing lines. 


  • Prioritize safety by strictly adhering to OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety protocols
  • Interact with customers as needed
  • Perform excavation tasks followed by pipe repairs or new pipe installations as an Excavation Technician
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials
  • Work in confined spaces and open trenches
  • Locates and arrives at job sites in a timely manner; safely drives and operates service vehicle between job sites

  • Hands-on experience in excavation projects for both residential and commercial construction settings is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license. Depending on the vehicle driven, a Commercial driver's license may be required.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in navigating excavation environments, including confined spaces and trench operations, with efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines
  • Current CDL or ability to obtain within 90 days if necessary for the vehicle driven
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience a plus
  • Be willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet the demands of the position.

At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees.  We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That’s why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.


We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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