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Excavation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Hydro-Excavation Operator/Driver to join our team in Channelview, TX ! As a Hydro-Excavation Operator/Driver, you will be responsible for operating ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Woodlawn, MD · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Operator for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavator Operator

Parker, CO · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Solid Rock Excavation is looking for an Excavator Operator to join our talented team. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer in search of a strong and dedicated team member to support our growing team.

Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials. Operates construction equipment ...

Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials. Operates construction equipment ...

Excavator Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Excavation Operator Operates excavating and loading equipment using heavy machinery. Effectively completes excavation and related tasks such as backfilling, trenching, grading excavation moving mass ...

Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials. Operates construction equipment ...

Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets, to excavate and load loose materials. Operates construction equipment ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavation Operator information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do excavation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Infographic showing various Excavation 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 $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Excavation Operator / Site Utility Foreman- Hiring Event

Cleves, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

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


Job description

Description

HAVEN SERVICES, LLC  (f/k/a KEN NEYER PLUMBING)


Open House Hiring Event - Cleves, Ohio


Guaranteed Interviews


Wednesday, September 2 | 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM


Now Hiring

  • Excavation Operators / Site Utility Foremen

Join Ken Neyer Plumbing for our Cleves Open House Hiring Event and interview on the spot! We are seeking experienced, safety-focused Excavation Operators and Site Utility Foremen to support and lead commercial construction projects.


Excavation Operator / Site Utility Foreman


Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators, backhoes, skid steers, loaders, and other heavy equipment  safely and efficiently. 
  • Lead and support the installation of underground water, sanitary, storm, and  site utility systems. 
  • Read plans, establish grades and elevations, and verify utility locations, slopes, depths, and alignments. 
  • Coordinate daily crew assignments, equipment, materials, production goals, and jobsite priorities. 
  • Oversee excavation, trench preparation, pipe placement, backfilling, compaction, and site restoration. 
  • Enforce trench safety, equipment procedures, jobsite requirements, quality standards, and company safety policies. 

Requirements

Qualifications

  • Previous  excavation, underground utility, sitework, or heavy-equipment experience  required. 
  • Working  knowledge of underground utility installation, trench safety, soil conditions, compaction, and equipment operation. 
  • Ability to read construction plans, calculate grades, follow layouts, and identify field conflicts. 
  • Valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and reliable transportation required. 
  • Leadership and communication skills with the ability to direct crews, work outdoors,  and perform physical construction duties as needed.

Why Join Ken Neyer Plumbing?

  • Competitive Pay 
  • Guaranteed Interviews 
  • Immediate Hiring Opportunities 
  • Steady Commercial Construction Opportunities 
  • Paid Training & Leadership Development Opportunities 
  • Career Growth & Advancement 
  • Supportive Team Environment 
  • Health, Dental & Vision Benefits 
  • Retirement Savings Opportunities 
  • Safety-First Culture 
  • Ongoing Professional Development


Apply Online or In Person


Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and attend our Open House Hiring Event at Ken Neyer Plumbing in Cleves for immediate interview opportunities.


We welcome experienced Excavation Operators and Site Utility Foremen who are ready to advance their careers in commercial construction.


Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screenings, which may include a background check, motor vehicle record check, and drug screening.


Maintaining eligibility to operate company vehicles is an essential job requirement. Employees who operate company vehicles must maintain a driving record that remains insurable under the Company's vehicle insurance program.


Equal Opportunity Employer


Ken Neyer Plumbing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.


EOE/AAP/M/F/V/D