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Excavation Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Excavator Operator Archer Western Construction, LLC., a member of The Walsh Group is currently seeking an Excavator Operator for the Water Mountain West Region / Palisades Water Main Replacement ...

B.H. Inc., is looking to hire a full-time Civil and Excavation Senior Estimator to complete a full range of business activities in a professional setting while adhering to the highest ethical ...

Excavator Operator

Mayer, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and ...

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator LOCATIONS: Arizona Region. Qualifications: * Minimum 5 years of experience effectively operating a excavator * Ability to read and interpret construction plan and specifications

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator LOCATIONS: Arizona Region. Qualifications: * Minimum 5 years of experience effectively operating a excavator * Ability to read and interpret construction plan and specifications

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Excavation information

See Arizona salary details

$10

$21

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How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in Arizona is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavation?

An excavation job involves the process of digging, moving, and removing earth, rock, or other materials to prepare a site for construction, utility installation, or other projects. Excavation workers use heavy machinery such as backhoes, bulldozers, and excavators to perform tasks safely and efficiently. This type of work requires knowledge of soil types, safety regulations, and site preparation techniques. Proper excavation is crucial for building foundations, creating trenches, and preventing structural issues.

What does an excavation worker do?

A typical day in an Excavation role involves operating heavy machinery to move earth, dig trenches, or prepare sites for construction according to project specifications. You’ll review site plans, perform equipment inspections, and adhere closely to safety standards while working outdoors in various weather conditions. Collaboration with project managers, surveyors, and other construction workers is common to ensure the job is done efficiently and accurately. The role often requires physical stamina and adaptability, as projects and terrain can vary widely. This dynamic environment offers the satisfaction of seeing tangible progress and contributing directly to construction milestones.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in excavation?

To excel in Excavation, strong knowledge of earthmoving techniques, heavy equipment operation, and safety regulations is critical, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Proficiency in using excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and sometimes GPS or laser-guided systems is often required, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training or a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Attention to detail, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this role. These abilities ensure safe, precise, and efficient site preparation, which is vital for the success of construction projects.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavation is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery to dig and move earth, often requiring certifications and safety training. It offers steady employment opportunities, physical work, and the potential for advancement in construction and infrastructure projects.

Is there good money in excavation?

Excavation jobs can offer competitive wages, especially for experienced operators and those with specialized skills or certifications. Pay rates vary by region, project complexity, and experience level, with opportunities for overtime and advancement in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavation jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Excavation jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Excavation jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Excavation job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,356 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Archaeological Excavation Specialist

TYPSA INC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

We are currently seeking resumes from qualified, responsible, self-sufficient, energetic Archaeological Excavation Specialists for our Phoenix & Tucson, Arizona offices. The ideal candidate will be motivated to develop and build their personal knowledge and skills to assist with the growth and success of the office. We offer a friendly, professional atmosphere with excellent benefits and a salary commensurate with experience.


Job Description:

The role will be to assist with archaeological excavation projects (testing and data recovery) in central and southern Arizona. The successful candidate will need to live in or be willing to relocate to the Phoenix or Tucson metropolitan areas. 


Duties: 

  • Conduct archaeological fieldwork, primarily excavation (testing and data recovery), and potentially monitoring and survey at times
  • Complete accurate standard field forms and maps (of sites, features, etc.)
  • Participate in artifact processing and data entry
  • Use a tablet, compass, trowel, shovel, pick, hula hoe, and screen
  • Assist with lab work 
  • Assist with the preparation of technical reports
  • Perform archaeological research and conduct site file searches at federal, state, tribal, and private repositories
  • Communicate effectively and work closely with internal and external team members and the public
  • Perform travel that may include overnight and/or out-of-state stays for extended periods of time


Job Qualifications (Education, Experience, and Skills):

  • Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, or closely related field; OR equivalent combination of education and experience 
  • Completion of an academic-sponsored field school 
  • A minimum of one (1) year of experience in Cultural Resource Management (CRM) 
  • Six (6) months of experience performing archaeological data recovery excavation (i.e., experience beyond shovel probing) at prehistoric sites
  • Understanding of and experience employing archaeological excavation field methods
  • Ability to generate, organize, and maintain accurate field records that meet state and federal standards and guidelines
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team; strong initiative 
  • Ability to perform fieldwork in adverse conditions (rugged terrain, remote locations, hot and cold temperatures, arid environments, dense vegetation) and carry up to 25 pounds of equipment 
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills 
  • Valid Driver's License, with the ability to maintain insurability under the company's insurance carrier


Preferred Qualifications (Education, Experience, and Skills):

  • Experience in Southwestern archaeology 
  • Experience with the respectful treatment and housing of ancestral remains 
  • Experience using GPS and GIS applications, particularly ESRI Field Maps, and other digital data collection applications


Competencies (To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies):

  • Communicative – interacts openly with others; can maintain relationships, works well independently or with a team. 
  • Consultative - Consults with other disciplines as needed; tolerates different perspectives or opinions.
  • Decisive & Action Oriented - Has a high level of energy and stamina; gets things done; makes sound educated but rapid decisions even when short of information; enjoys managing challenging projects and works well in fast-paced and pressure environments. Self-motivated and proactive
  • Flexible - Adapts to new challenges and circumstances; able to multi-task; thrives on variety and frequently changing environments; creative problem solver. Resourcefulness, with minimal direction. 
  • Analytical – Uses sound data, and procedures, and follows all laws, rules, and regulations but is a solutionist or problem-solver. 
  • Conscientious and Organized – Believes professional integrity is paramount; understands the importance of project records; responsive to clients and deadline oriented; quality oriented.


Working Conditions and Environment:

Will need the ability to establish rapport quickly with others working on the same project, and be able to promote a positive team environment. Working knowledge of dealing with a diverse population while using tact, diplomacy, and respect.


TYPSA, Inc. Culture:

  • Thinking toward future company and personal growth
  • Yielding equity, inclusion, and diversity 
  • Passionate supporter of clients and teammates 
  • Shared comradery
  • Action oriented and flexible


TYPSA, Inc. Benefits:

TYPSA, Inc. offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, short and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, Paid-time-Off, and a 401(k) plan.


TYPSA, Inc. Overview:

TYPSA in the United States is a multi-discipline engineering and environmental consulting firm assisting public and private clients in planning, developing, designing, constructing, and maintaining critical infrastructure projects across the United States. With offices in Arizona and California, TYPSA provides local expertise with the backing of a global network.


Originally established in 1992 as AZTEC Engineering Group, Inc., the company began as a two-person DBE firm and grew into a trusted corporation serving clients nationwide. In 2006, AZTEC joined TYPSA Group, an international leader in engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting headquartered in Spain with more than 60 offices worldwide.


Today, as TYPSA in the United States, we proudly carry forward the AZTEC legacy while connecting our clients to the resources, innovation, and international experience of the TYPSA Group. This integration allows us to deliver tailored local solutions with the depth and reach of a global firm.


TYPSA, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to affirmative action planning and encourages diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, veteran status, housing status, or any other non-job-related characteristic under applicable law.


Please apply online at www.typsa.us/career.