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Excavation Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Haven Services, LLC

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Commercial Division in the installation and repair of sewer, water, and storm lines. This is a year-round ...

The Waterworks

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Commercial Division in the installation and repair of sewer, water, and storm lines. This is a year-round ...

Haven Services, LLC

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Commercial Division in the installation and repair of sewer, water, and storm lines. This is a year-round ...

The Waterworks

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Commercial Division in the installation and repair of sewer, water, and storm lines. This is a year-round ...

Green Acres Excavating INC

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator Residential Basement Excavation

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The ideal candidate is an experienced equipment operator who understands excavation work, works safely and efficiently, and can operate equipment around existing structures, utilities, and tight ...

Phillips, Inc.

Mini Excavator Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Interpret project plans and specifications to determine the layout for excavation and materials ... Proven experience operating mini excavators and other compact construction equipment. Strong ...

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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.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Excavation Operator jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Excavation Operator job openings:

Excavation Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH • On-site

Haven Services, LLC
See more jobs at Haven Services, LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Description

Heavy Equipment Operator


Do you have 5 years or more of operating experience? 


The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Commercial Division in the installation and repair of sewer, water, and storm lines. This is a year-round role requiring expertise in operating heavy equipment and managing site utility installations.

What you'll do:

  • Operate company provided backhoes, track hoes, skid loaders, and dump trucks with an emphasis placed in site safety, personal safety, and equipment maintenance.
  • Install and assist in the installation of water lines, gas lines, and sewer lines as per city/state specifications.


Benefits you'll enjoy:


Haven Services & The Waterworks believes quality companies are based on quality people and we spare no expense on providing our employees the best benefits! Our exceptional employee benefit offering includes:

  • Medical Insurance choice of 2 HDHP's with HRA & HSA or PPO - 1 HDHP option has 100% of premiums covered by employer
  • Dental and Vision
  • Paid time off that starts accruing on your first day of employment!
  • Company provided short-term and long-term disability
  • Company provided Life and AD & D insurance
  • 401(k) with 6% company match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • An annual $250 wellness reimbursement program
  • Paid Holidays

Requirements


The ideal candidate will have:

  • Possession of a Class A commercial driver's license with endorsements for tanker and air brakes.
  • The ability to pass random drug and alcohol tests required for CDL drivers per DOT standards.
  • Thorough knowledge of all phases of job safety relative to excavation and equipment used in excavation applications:
  • Safe driving techniques
  • Safe traffic control in work areas
  • Confined space entry procedures
  • Trench Safety
  • Safe excavation includes digging around utilities. Safe use of water hoses under pressure
  • Safe use of vacuum hoses and tubing under vacuum


Employees must be able to pass pre-employment screening including a criminal background check, motor vehicle check and drug screening. Maintaining eligibility to operate company vehicles is a fundamental job requirement. All employees that operate company vehicles must maintain their driving record as insurable under the company's vehicle insurance provider. 


EOE/AAP/M/F/V/D/SO 

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