ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavating Jobs in Tulsa, OK (NOW HIRING)

HKA Enterprises

Crew Member

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

Your primary daily task will be excavating around utility poles with a shovel, along with supporting skilled workers, operating hand and power tools, and maintaining a safe, clean job site. This is a ...

EXO

CDL Driver/Construction Crew Member

Tulsa, OK · On-site

Equipment Operation • Operate skid steers, mini excavators, forklifts, and other construction equipment within certification and experience levels. • Conduct daily inspections of assigned ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Tulsa, OK

Excavating information

See Tulsa, OK salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Tulsa, OK is $21.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.57 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 are popular job titles related to Excavating jobs in Tulsa, OK?

For Excavating jobs in Tulsa, OK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs in Tulsa, OK look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs in Tulsa, OK are:

What cities near Tulsa, OK are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities near Tulsa, OK with the most Excavating job openings:

Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Tulsa, OK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,767 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Excavator Operator (Underground Wet Utilities)

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Tulsa, OK • On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
NOW HIRING FOR LARGE EXCAVATOR OPERATORS WITH EXPERIENCE IN UNDERGROUND WET UTILITIES in Tulsa, OK
Would you like to be part of a focused, dedicated team? Do you want to work and grow with other motivated, ambitious people?
Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction offers challenging career opportunities, extensive training and employee development along with an opportunity to grow your career and thrive under Ralph L. Wadsworth reputation for excellence. We offer excellent benefits and supply you with the tools you need to maximize your potential and growth.
Benefits include:
    • Competitive Pay
    • Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • Holiday Pay
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Retirement Plan - 401K, employees will receive a company contribution up to 5%
    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Growth and Career Advancement
Position Description
Equipment Operator - Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate multiple types of heavy equipment (excavator, dozer, loader, scraper, grader, rock truck, compactor, etc.), with or without GPS.
  • Perform excavation, trenching, grading, and site preparation to meet project specifications and required grades.
  • Load, move, level, and place dirt, rock, and other materials efficiently to maintain production goals.
  • Assist with roadway construction, building pads, utilities work, and demolition as needed.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections, basic maintenance checks, and report usage hours.
  • Follow all safety standards and work effectively in a fast-paced, team environment with minimal supervision.
  • Support crew needs, including occasional labor duties and overtime/weekend work as required.
Position Requirements
  • Have a minimum of 4 years of Heavy Equipment Operating Experience with multiple types of equipment or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Willing to do laborer work
  • Ability to work safely under pressure with time constraints in a changing environment.
  • Frequent gross body movements such as bending, climbing into equipment, lifting (up to 75lbs), twisting, standing, balancing, stooping, handling materials, moving around hazardous sites.
  • Good Eye to Hand coordination a must. Depth perception required.
  • High School diploma/GED preferred.
  • Flexible availability to include overtime and possible weekends and nights.
  • Must have a Valid Driver's License

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer: We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #LI-KM1

Apply