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Excavation Contractors Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clark Companies

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Pipe Layer - Excavation & Utilities

Lansing, MI · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

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 ...

Cherenzia Excavation

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Excavation Site Foreman

Pawcatuck, CT · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Cherenzia Excavation: 99 Mechanic Street Pawcatuck, CT, 06379 Company Description Cherenzia Excavation is an established, family owned site development and excavation contractor committed to quality ...

Cherenzia Excavation

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Truck Driver

Pawcatuck, CT · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Cherenzia Excavation: 99 Mechanic Street Pawcatuck, CT, 06379 Company Description Cherenzia Excavation is an established, family owned site development and excavation contractor committed to quality ...

Reveal Excavation

Civil 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 ...

Cherenzia Excavation

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Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic

Pawcatuck, CT · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Cherenzia Excavation: 99 Mechanic Street Pawcatuck, CT, 06379 Company Description Cherenzia Excavation is an established, family owned site development and excavation contractor committed to quality ...

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How much do excavation contractors jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation contractors 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 moving earth, rock, or other materials, typically in preparation for construction projects. They use heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes to dig foundations, trenches, and grading for roads, buildings, and utilities. In addition to digging, they may also handle tasks like site clearing, demolition, and soil compaction. Their work is essential for creating a safe and stable base for structures and infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges excavation contractors face when working on construction sites?

Excavation contractors often encounter challenges such as unexpected underground utilities, varying soil conditions, and changing weather that can impact timelines. Coordinating with other trades on-site is crucial to avoid delays and ensure safety. Effective communication, thorough site assessments, and flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges and delivering projects on schedule.

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

Excavation Contractors need expertise in site preparation, earthmoving, and reading construction plans, often supported by relevant licenses and experience in heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with equipment like excavators, backhoes, and GPS-based grading systems is typically required, along with knowledge of safety regulations. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help contractors coordinate crews and address site challenges efficiently. These abilities ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and to specification, minimizing costly errors and hazards.

What is the difference between Excavation Contractors vs Excavators?

AspectExcavation ContractorsExcavators
Credentials/CertificationsLicenses, permits, OSHA safety trainingOperator certifications, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentProject sites, construction sites, outdoor environmentsHeavy machinery operation, construction sites
Employer/Industry UsageConstruction companies, civil engineering firmsEquipment manufacturers, rental companies, construction firms
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Excavation Contractors oversee and manage excavation projects, coordinating crews and ensuring project completion. Excavators are the heavy machinery used by these contractors to perform digging and earth-moving tasks. While excavation contractors plan and supervise, excavators are the equipment that executes the physical work.

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 involving operating heavy machinery and working outdoors, often requiring certifications such as OSHA training. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially in construction and infrastructure projects, with potential for advancement into supervisory roles. The job can be physically demanding and may involve working in various weather conditions.

Where do excavation contractors make the most money?

Excavation contractors tend to earn higher wages in regions with a high volume of construction projects, such as urban areas or regions experiencing economic growth. Factors like specialized skills, certifications, and the complexity of projects also influence earning potential. Typically, larger projects and areas with higher living costs offer greater compensation for excavation work.
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What states have the most Excavation Contractors jobs?

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Excavation Contractors jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation Contractors job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Pipe Layer - Excavation & Utilities

Clark Companies

Lansing, MI • On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

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Job description

Pipe Layer - Excavation & Utilities

Location: 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 utility projects. This position plays a critical role in installing underground water, sewer, and storm systems.

If you enjoy hands-on work, operating in a team environment, and building infrastructure that lasts, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Install water mains, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer systems

• Read and interpret construction plans and grade stakes

• Set pipe to proper line and grade

• Assist with trench preparation and excavation activities

• Work safely around heavy equipment and utility installations

• Perform daily inspections of tools and work areas

• Follow all company and OSHA safety procedures

Qualifications

• Previous pipe laying or underground utility experience preferred

• Understanding of trench safety practices

• Ability to read construction drawings and grades is preferred

• Ability to work outdoors in all seasons

• Strong work ethic and dependable attendance

• Ability to perform physically demanding work

Benefits

• Competitive Pay

• Health Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• 401(k)

• Paid Time Off

• Full-Time Year-Round Work