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Excavation Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Drain Werks

Plumber/Excavator Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$48K - $74K/yr

The Plumber/Excavator Operator is responsible for diagnosing and repairing plumbing equipment in both residential and commercial environments. This position will inspect the effectiveness and safety ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

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Excavation Operator information

What does an excavation operator do?

An Excavation Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, and loaders to dig, move, and grade earth on construction sites. They prepare sites for building, remove debris, and ensure trenches and foundations are dug safely and accurately according to project specifications. The role requires knowledge of equipment operation, safety protocols, and site planning. Excavation Operators often work closely with site supervisors and other construction professionals to complete projects efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as an Excavation Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience in operating heavy machinery, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and GPS-based grade control systems, along with safety certifications like OSHA, are typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work well in a team are essential soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and precise excavation work, which is critical for successful construction and infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges excavation operators face on the job and how can they be addressed?

Excavation Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven job sites, and maintaining equipment performance. Communication with site supervisors and other crew members is crucial to ensure safety and efficiency, especially when working near underground utilities or in high-traffic areas. Staying updated on safety protocols, conducting regular equipment inspections, and participating in ongoing training can help operators address these challenges and perform their role effectively.

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

AspectExcavation OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projectsConstruction, mining, landscaping, various sites
Job FocusOperating excavators for digging and trenchingOperating various heavy machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery, an Excavation Operator specializes primarily in excavators for digging and trenching tasks. A Heavy Equipment Operator has a broader scope, handling multiple types of machinery across different industries. Both require similar certifications and work in construction or industrial environments, but the Excavation Operator's focus is more specific to excavation projects.

How much do excavation operators earn?

Excavation operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators who operate heavy machinery like backhoes and bulldozers often have higher wages, especially if they work overtime or in high-demand areas.
Excavation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Excavator Operator (Birmingham, Alabama)

Birmingham, AL • On-site

National Salvage & Service
Clean Energy Semiconductors Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Salvage & Serviceexternal

$21 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Excavator Operator

National Salvage & Service Corporation is an industry leader and a growing company. We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator for our Fuel Yard in Birmingham, Alabama.

National assists Class One Railroads in their track renewal and maintenance programs. If you enjoy working outside, this is the career for you. This position entails following a procedure and using an established method to ensure safety and accuracy. Our operators are detail oriented, and safety oriented. At National, we focus on completing each job the right way, the first time. To be considered you MUST have previous experience of operating an excavator. Class A or Class B CDL is preferred.

Duties, Tasks, and Responsibilities

  • Ability to safely dig with an Excavator
  • Ability to operate and control attachments such as shears, blades, buckets and more
  • Able to operate other types of heavy equipment such as backhoes, pavers, dozers and graders to perform various takes (excavating, moving, grading dirt, etc...)
  • Make judgments regarding the most efficient operation of equipment and attachments
  • Perform daily safety and maintenance checks on equipment
  • Aid other crew members on the ground
  • Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, or compact and level earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, or rakes
  • Must be reliable and responsible
  • Filling out daily paperwork using a smartphone, laptop or computer device

Position-Specific Competencies

  • Able to work long hours in all weather conditions.
  • Hold valid driver's license.
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds.
  • Completely and accurately fill out daily paperwork.
  • Able to use a smartphone.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge to make small repairs.
  • Follow all Safety Programs, Policies and Procedures

Minimum Requirements

  • Class A or B CDL is preferred. MUST be able to drive standard transmission.
  • Three to five years' experience preferred.

Benefits of National

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Stable work through all seasons, with full time work through the winter
  • Full health benefits including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and more
  • 401(K) retirement plan, with company contributions
  • Flexible dates for paid time off

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. Duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

This is a non-exempt position.

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