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Excavation Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CORE

Machine Operator

Amenia, NY

$25 - $30/hr

This role requires operating heavy equipment such as wheel loaders and excavators to efficiently ... Operate machinery responsibly to avoid damage to equipment and surroundings. * Be prepared to work ...

CORE

$25 - $30/hr

This role requires operating heavy equipment such as wheel loaders and excavators to efficiently ... Operate machinery responsibly to avoid damage to equipment and surroundings. * Be prepared to work ...

Mr. Level

Machine Operator

North Ridgeville, OH · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Operate excavators, skid steers/Bobcats , and related heavy equipment safely and efficiently * Lead and work alongside a 2-3 person field crew * Perform excavation and site prep for foundation repair ...

McNay Excavating

Heavy Machine Operator

Prosperity, PA · On-site

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... Safely operate a variety of large, heavy machinery safely, such as excavators, loaders, dozers, and ...

McNay Excavating

Heavy Machine Operator

Prosperity, PA · On-site

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... Safely operate a variety of large, heavy machinery safely, such as excavators, loaders, dozers, and ...

McNay Excavating

Heavy Machine Operator

Prosperity, PA · On-site

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... Safely operate a variety of large, heavy machinery safely, such as excavators, loaders, dozers, and ...

Arbor Homes

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating excavation equipment to support underground plumbing, water, sewer, and projects. This position requires experience working around existing ...

Arbor Homes

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating excavation equipment to support underground plumbing, water, sewer, and projects. This position requires experience working around existing ...

BBSI Portland

Excavator Operator

North Plains, OR · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The Excavation Equipment Operator will be responsible for operating track excavators and other heavy machinery to perform excavation and earthmoving tasks. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

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Excavation Machine Operator information

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How much do excavation machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavation machine operator?

Excavation Machine Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bulldozers, and loaders to dig, lift, and move earth or materials on construction sites. They are responsible for preparing sites for building, landscaping, or roadwork, ensuring that excavation tasks are performed safely and efficiently. Operators must have a good understanding of machinery, safety protocols, and site plans, and often work closely with construction crews and supervisors. Proper training and certification are typically required for this role.

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

To thrive as an Excavation Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by specialized equipment operation training or certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, loaders, and GPS or laser-guided systems is typically required. Attention to safety, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills ensure efficient, precise, and safe excavation work, helping prevent accidents and ensuring project success.

What are the typical challenges faced by an excavation machine operator on a construction site?

Excavation Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and maintaining clear communication with ground crews to ensure safety. They must remain alert to avoid damaging underground utilities or nearby structures, which requires attention to detail and careful coordination with site supervisors and utility locators. Operators also need to perform routine maintenance checks on their equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficient operation throughout the project.

What is the difference between Excavation Machine Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectExcavation Machine OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projectsConstruction, mining, landscaping, and infrastructure projects
Job DutiesOperate excavators for digging, trenching, and site prepOperate various heavy machinery like bulldozers, loaders, and excavators
Industry UsagePrimarily in excavation and trenching projectsBroader, including construction, mining, and forestry

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery, an Excavation Machine Operator specializes in operating excavators for digging and site preparation, whereas a Heavy Equipment Operator handles a variety of machinery across multiple industries. The certifications and work environments overlap, but their specific duties and equipment focus differ.

How much do excavation machine operators earn?

Excavation machine operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or in high-demand areas can earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

Is an excavation machine operator a stressful job?

Excavation machine operators often work in physically demanding environments with safety risks, which can contribute to job stress. The job requires focus, adherence to safety protocols, and sometimes long or irregular hours, but stress levels vary depending on the worksite and individual experience.

What states have the most Excavation Machine Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Excavation Machine Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Excavation Machine Operator jobs?

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

Excavation Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Loader/ Excavator/Machinery operator

Olathe, KS • On-site

Sunflower Excavating LLC
See more jobs at Sunflower Excavating LLCexternal

$25 - $37.50/hr

Other

PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

**Job Title: Loader/Excavator Operator**

**Location:** Olathe KS

**Company:** Sunflower Excavating

**Job Type:** Full-Time

**Salary:** $25.00-37.50 / HR

**About Us:**
We pride ourselves on our skilled workforce and dedication to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. We are currently seeking a skilled Loader/Excavator/Machinery Operator to join our dynamic team.

**Job Summary:**
The Loader/Excavator/Machinery Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, including loaders,  excavators, skid steers, mini-excavators and crushers, to perform various tasks such as earthmoving, digging, loading, crushing and transporting materials. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of equipment operation, safety protocols, and site management to ensure successful project completion.

**Key Responsibilities:**
- Operate loaders, excavators, and other heavy machinery safely and efficiently.
- Perform pre-shift inspections and routine maintenance on equipment.
- Execute earthmoving, grading, and excavation tasks as per project specifications.
- Load and transport materials to and from job sites.
- Collaborate with site supervisors and other team members to ensure project goals are met.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhering to all safety regulations and company policies.
- Communicate effectively with team members and report any issues or malfunctions with equipment.
- Assist in the training of new operators as needed.
- Occasionally hand dig and other manual labor needed to complete jobs or breakdowns.

 - Complete daily logs and reports regarding equipment usage and job progress.

**Qualifications:**

- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid operator's license and certifications for heavy equipment operation.
- Minimum [3] years of experience operating loaders and excavators in a construction or similar environment.
- Strong understanding of safety protocols and best practices related to heavy machinery operation.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and specifications.
- Physical stamina and strength to perform manual labor and operate machinery.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform tasks under pressure.

**Preferred Qualifications:**
- Certification from a recognized training program (e.g., NCCCO, OSHA).
- Experience with additional heavy machinery (e.g., bulldozers, backhoes) is a plus.
- Knowledge of basic maintenance and repair techniques for heavy equipment.

**Benefits:**
- Competitive salary and overtime opportunities.
- Paid time off and holidays.- Opportunities for training and career advancement.

**How to Apply:**
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter  Please include "Loader/Excavator Operator Application" in the subject line.

Feel free to modify any section of this job description to better fit your company's needs and specific expectations!

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