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Excavation Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Lansing, MI Pay: $24-$32/ HR Join One of Mid-Michigan's Leading Excavation Contractors Clark Companies is looking for an experienced Pipe Layer to work on commercial, municipal, and residential ...

Company Overview LB3 Enterprises is the premier mass excavation contractor in southern California, thanks to years of experience, innovation, and a people-first approach. Job Summary Our heavy ...

Excavation Laborer

Doral, FL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

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Excavation Contractor information

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$10

$22

$32

How much do excavation contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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:

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.

Project Coordinator - Residential Excavation Operations

Thornton, CO • On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate project starts and maintain production schedules across multiple active jobs.

  • Support daily dispatch of crews, equipment, and field operations, and respond to scheduling changes.

  • Track utility locate requests, manage equipment and resource availability, and maintain operational records.


Job description

We are a residential excavation contractor seeking an experienced Project Coordinator to support fast-paced field operations and high-volume production scheduling.This role is ideal for someone who enjoys coordinating moving pieces, solving problems, and helping keep production moving across multiple active jobs. We are looking for someone who brings prior experience supporting construction or field operations and can step into a dynamic environment with confidence.We are willing to train our systems, processes, and workflows, but applicants should bring previous experience supporting construction, scheduling, dispatch, production coordination, field operations, or similar operational environments.This position works directly with company leadership and field supervision to keep crews productive, schedules moving, equipment coordinated, and jobs ready for execution. If you are organized, proactive, detail-oriented, and enjoy supporting field operations in a fast-paced environment, we'd like to hear from you. What You'll DoProject & Production CoordinationCoordinate project starts and maintain production schedules across multiple active communities and jobsMonitor builder releases and support daily production planningTrack project readiness and adjust schedules as conditions changeMaintain visibility across active work and communicate updates proactivelyUtility Locate ManagementSubmit and manage utility locate requestsTrack locate completion and expiration datesCoordinate re-locates and resolve scheduling impactsEnsure crews are not dispatched without required locates in placeDispatch & Field Operations SupportCoordinate daily dispatch of crews, operators, trucks, and equipmentSupport field supervisors with scheduling and production needsRespond quickly to changes related to weather, inspections, builder requests, and field conditionsCommunicate priorities and maintain operational flowEquipment & Resource CoordinationTrack equipment assignments and availabilityCoordinate equipment movement between projectsMonitor downtime and support maintenance schedulingMaintain operational visibility of company assetsAdministrative & Operations SupportMaintain project records and operational tracking toolsCoordinate deliveries, vendors, permits, and supporting documentationReview and process field time records for accuracy and completenessCoordinate with field supervisors to resolve discrepancies and verify time reporting before payroll processingSupport payroll preparation through accurate tracking and documentation of field hoursMaintain production reporting and operational recordsIdentify issues early and help resolve operational bottlenecksWhat Success Looks LikeCrews start work prepared and on scheduleUtility locates are completed and trackedEquipment is available where and when neededCommunication between office and field remains clearField time reporting is accurate and timelyProjects continue moving with minimal disruptionField supervisors stay focused on execution-not paperworkQualifications2+ years of experience supporting construction, field operations, dispatch, scheduling, production coordination, utilities, excavation, residential building, or similar operational environments requiredExperience managing multiple active priorities and deadlinesStrong scheduling, communication, and organizational skillsComfortable making decisions and adapting quickly in a changing environmentStrong computer skills including Microsoft Office and project tracking systemsPreferred ExperienceResidential production constructionExcavation or site development operationsUtility locate systemsEquipment coordination and dispatchBuilder scheduling environmentsCompensation & BenefitsHourly position: $28.00–$38.00 per hour DOEOvertime eligibleBenefits package availablePaid time offOpportunity for growth and expanded responsibilityCollaborative small-company environment with direct operational impact   
Job Posted by ApplicantPro