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Excavation Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reveal Excavation

Truck Driver

Anaconda, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation commercial side development, foundation excavation, grading and ...

Reveal Excavation, Inc.

Truck Driver

Anaconda, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performaing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation commercial side development, foundaction excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation

Truck Driver

Anaconda, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performaing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation commercial side development, foundaction excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation, Inc.

Truck Driver

Anaconda, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performaing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation commercial side development, foundaction excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation

Foreman

Missoula, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation, commercial site development, foundation excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anaconda, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation, commercial site development, foundation excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation

Heavy Equipment Operator

Missoula, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation, commercial site development, foundation excavation, grading ...

Reveal Excavation, Inc.

Foreman

Missoula, MT · On-site

We are a growing excavation contractor performing a wide variety of work, including road construction, underground utility installation, commercial site development, foundation excavation, grading ...

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Excavation Contractor information

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How much do excavation contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation contractor in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavation contractor?

Excavation contractors are professionals who specialize in the removal of earth, rock, or other materials from a site, typically to prepare the land for construction projects. They use heavy machinery and equipment to dig foundations, trenches, and grading areas for buildings, roads, or landscaping. Excavation contractors are responsible for ensuring that the site is safe, stable, and conforms to engineering and environmental standards. Their work is crucial for the successful start of many construction and development projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavation contractor?

To thrive as an Excavation Contractor, you need expertise in earthmoving techniques, site analysis, and construction safety, typically supported by relevant licensing and experience in the construction industry. Familiarity with operating heavy machinery such as backhoes, bulldozers, and excavators, along with certifications for equipment operation, is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set outstanding contractors apart. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure projects are completed efficiently, safely, and according to regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by excavation contractors on a project site?

Excavation contractors often face challenges such as unexpected underground obstacles, adverse weather conditions, and the need to coordinate with multiple trades on a busy construction site. Managing safety risks and adhering to strict project timelines can also add pressure. Effective communication with project managers, surveyors, and utility companies is crucial to avoid delays and ensure the excavation work is completed accurately and safely.

What is the difference between Excavation Contractor vs Excavator Operator?

AspectExcavation ContractorExcavator Operator
CredentialsLicenses, certifications in excavation and safetyOperator certifications, CDL or specialized equipment training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, large-scale projectsOperating heavy machinery on construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, excavation firmsConstruction companies, equipment rental firms
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While an excavation contractor manages entire excavation projects, overseeing planning, permits, and coordination, an excavator operator focuses on operating heavy machinery to perform the physical digging and earth-moving tasks. Both roles are essential in construction projects but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How much do excavation contractors make?

Excavation contractors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled contractors with certifications and specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially in commercial or large-scale projects.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavation is a skilled trade that involves operating heavy machinery and working outdoors, often requiring physical strength and safety awareness. It can offer stable employment, opportunities for advancement, and the potential for overtime pay, making it a viable career choice for those interested in construction and infrastructure projects.

What cities are hiring for Excavation Contractor jobs?

Cities with the most Excavation Contractor job openings:

What states have the most Excavation Contractor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Excavation Contractor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Excavation Contractor jobs?

For Excavation Contractor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Excavation Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Laborer / Equipment Operator - Excavation (Growth Opportunity)

Denver, CO • On-site

American Custom Excavation LLC
See more jobs at American Custom Excavation LLCexternal

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

American Custom Excavation – Denver Metro / Front Range

About Us

American Custom Excavation is a growing excavation contractor specializing in civil, commercial, and residential work across Colorado. Our projects include site development, utilities (water/sewer/storm), and technical excavation.

We are building a strong, reliable crew and are looking for the right person to grow with us.

Position Overview

This is a hands-on Laborer / Operator role. You will be working alongside experienced operators and leadership, assisting with daily site work while developing into a higher-level operator over time.

If you’re looking for a long-term opportunity—not just a job—this is it.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist with excavation, grading, and site prep
  • Support underground utility installation (water, sewer, storm)
  • Trenching support, pipe prep, backfill, and compaction
  • Operate skid steer / mini excavator (based on experience)
  • Load/unload materials and maintain jobsite organization
  • Work safely around existing utilities
  • Follow direction and communicate clearly with crew

Requirements (Read Carefully)

  • Must show up on time, every day
  • Must be willing to perform physical labor outdoors
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Must be able to lift 50+ lbs
  • Must have a strong work ethic and positive attitude

 Required

  • Construction or excavation experience
  • Skid steer or mini excavator experience
  • Utility work experience (water/sewer/storm)

Pay & Growth

  • $19–$26/hour starting, depending on experience
  • Raises based on performance—not time
  • Clear path to full equipment operator role
  • Opportunity to grow with a fast-scaling company

What We’re Looking For

We are not looking for someone who needs to be told what to do every minute.

We want someone who:

  • Works hard without being pushed
  • Takes pride in their work
  • Wants to learn and improve
  • Is reliable and consistent

Why Join Us

  • Steady, year-round work
  • Strong team environment
  • Real opportunity to move up
  • Work on a wide variety of projects (not stuck doing the same thing every day)

How to Apply

Reply to this posting with:

  1. Brief work history
  2. Equipment experience (if any)
  3. Availability

Applications without a short description of your experience will not be considered.

Company Description

We are a developing company in a growth phase, offering employees the opportunity to advance as our capabilities, project volume, and market presence continue to expand.