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Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excavating Superintendent

Lancaster, PA ยท 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 ...

Excavating Superintendent

Lancaster, PA ยท 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 ...

Excavating Superintendent Are you ready to apply your leadership and managerial skills to oversee daily operations of diverse projects, from planning through completion? Horst Excavating is seeking a ...

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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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Excavation Labor

Kendallville, IN ยท On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Ability to work in extreme weather Excavating company seeking laborer. Job includes shoveling, shootin grade, use of handheld tools, and pipe laying. Experience is preferred, but not required. Pay is ...

Be Seen First

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 ...

Be Seen First

Excavation Labor

Kendallville, IN ยท On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Ability to work in extreme weather Excavating company seeking laborer. Job includes shoveling, shootin grade, use of handheld tools, and pipe laying. Experience is preferred, but not required. Pay is ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavating information

See salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Construction / Excavation General Laborer

Thornapple Excavating

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position:                              Laborer
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:
  • Be versatile and perform various duties required such as moving materials around jobsite and hand digging.
  • Signaling equipment operators to facilitate work in tight spaces, movement of materials, or other nonverbal communication requirements.
  • Ability to adjust to seasonal weather conditions and work for up to 12 or more hours per day.
  • Use of various hand tools, such as shovels, come-along rakes, compacters, levels, and other required tools.
  • Direct traffic when necessary.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn.
  • Consistently show up on time and ready to work.
Job Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in residential or commercial excavating preferred but not required.
  • Be able to lift up to 60+ lbs.
  • Comfortable working in a high-stress environment.
  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic and desire to deliver high-quality work.
  • Be willing and able to work with crew members and open to alternative ways of getting things done.

Benefits:

  • 100% Employer Paid Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 100% Employer Paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Company Outings
  • Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
  • Referral program

Schedule:

  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Greater Grand Rapids, MI

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

  • Pay varies by experience
  • Construction / Excavating experience is preferred
  • Experience and desire to work outdoors in weather elements is highly preferred

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: Varies, primarily within 50 mile radius to Grand Rapids, MI


 

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