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Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Horst Group

Excavating Superintendent

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Excavation Superintendent Join Our Team at Horst Excavating! Are you ready to apply your leadership and managerial skills to oversee daily operations of diverse projects, from planning through ...

Horst Group

Excavating Superintendent

Lancaster, PA

$80K - $125K/yr

Excavation Superintendent Join Our Team at Horst Excavating! Are you ready to apply your leadership and managerial skills to oversee daily operations of diverse projects, from planning through ...

Horst Group

Excavating Superintendent

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Excavation Superintendent Join Our Team at Horst Excavating! Are you ready to apply your leadership and managerial skills to oversee daily operations of diverse projects, from planning through ...

Stout Excavating Group, Texas LLC

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Foreman Mining/Excavating

Kermit, TX · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Ability to operate and troubleshoot a variety of mobile mining equipment (excavators, loaders, haul trucks, dozers). * Physically able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform ...

Stout Excavating Group, Texas LLC

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Foreman Mining/Excavating

Kermit, TX · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Ability to operate and troubleshoot a variety of mobile mining equipment (excavators, loaders, haul trucks, dozers). * Physically able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform ...

Francis Excavating

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Civil Excavation Estimator & Procurement Specialist

Texarkana, TX · On-site

$85K/yr

Build Your Career with Francis Excavating Francis Excavating is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Civil Excavation Estimator & Procurement Specialist to join our growing team. This position is ...

Francis Excavating

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Civil Excavation Estimator & Procurement Specialist

Texarkana, TX · On-site

$85K/yr

Build Your Career with Francis Excavating Francis Excavating is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Civil Excavation Estimator & Procurement Specialist to join our growing team. This position is ...

Bash Excavating

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Excavation Equipment Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Bash Excavating is looking to hire a new operator. We are a small company that does a lot of site work and site utilities. YOU WILL BE ASKED TO DO: * Set up lasers * check grade * cut grade * final ...

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Excavating information

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How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

Excavator operator jobs are in demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and urban development. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are sought after in many regions, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as these industries expand.

How much money can you make with an excavator?

Excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages.

What are excavating jobs?

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.

How much do excavation people make?

Excavation workers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators and those with specialized training can earn higher wages, especially when working with heavy machinery or in demanding environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of excavating, high-paying roles such as senior project managers or business owners can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large construction or infrastructure projects. These positions often require extensive experience, specialized skills, and sometimes ownership of equipment or companies. Most excavating jobs typically pay less, with top executives or entrepreneurs in the industry reaching higher income levels.
More about Excavating jobs
What cities are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities with the most Excavating job openings:
What states have the most Excavating jobs? States with the most job openings for Excavating jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs are:
Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Excavation

Heavy Equipment Operator - Excavation

Thornapple Excavating

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position: Dozer Operator
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
FT / PT Status: Full-Time
Who is Thornapple Excavating?
Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become one of the most well-known names in commercial excavating in West Michigan. The organization strives to be a leader in earthwork, utility installation, and other commercial excavating services. With a strong work ethic and attention to detail, customers can count on Thornapple Excavating, Inc. to deliver a high-quality product the first time, every time.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Operate a dozer, excavator, or other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to operate proficiently and at a "finish grade" level.
  • Read and understand blueprints to understand the site plan.
  • Set up rotary lasers and use for site grading.
  • Communicate with site supervisor or foreman about the site-specific specifications or requirements or general plans.
  • Communicate with laborers, truck drivers, and other employees to help keep the site running safely and efficiently.
  • Perform general maintenance on equipment including inspecting, fueling, greasing, and cleaning tracks daily.
  • Clean and maintain equipment inside and out.
  • Adjust to seasonal weather conditions and work for up to 12 hours per day.
  • Willingness and ability to do what it takes to help get the job done, including operating a different piece of equipment or helping laborers when a situation demands it.
  • Knowledge and understanding of commercial excavating and grades.
  • Consistently show up on time and ready to work.
  • Desire to keep safety in the front of your mind at all times.

Job Qualifications:
  • Applicants should have a minimum of 5 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Must have a firm understanding grades and commercial earthwork.
  • Prior experience with operating with GPS is encouraged, but not required.
  • Ability to perform your work with limited direction / supervision and have the knowledge of how to prepare, install, and maintain the work and equipment.
  • Comfortable working in a high-stress environment.
  • Be willing and able to work with crew members and open to alternative ways of getting things done.
  • Must be safety-minded and have a strong work ethic.

Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
  • 1-5 years excavation (preferred) or construction experience operating heavy equipment

Involves the operation of small equipment and tools, including:
  • Pavement breakers and jackhammers
  • Cement, plaster, and mortar mixers
  • Saws
Benefits Our Employees Enjoy:
  • 401(k) with company match
  • 100% paid company paid Health, Dental and Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Year-end bonuses
  • Company events and outings
  • Referral bonus
Schedule:
  • Day shift with OT opportunity
  • Monday - Friday, no weekends
  • Work Location - 50 mile radius of Grand Rapids, MI
Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

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