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Excavation Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Central Specialties

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Knife River Corporation

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Safely and properly operate excavation equipment * Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations. Self-motivated, team-player with ...

Bituminous Roadways

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Handle excavation around existing utilities with care and precision. * Load and unload materials as needed (e.g., bedding stone, spoil, pipe). * Perform daily equipment inspections and routine ...

Knife River

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Safely and properly operate excavation equipment * Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations. Self-motivated, team-player with ...

McGough Construction

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$46.25 - $47.24/hr

Handle excavation around existing utilities with care and precision. * Load and unload materials as needed (e.g., bedding stone, spoil, pipe). * Perform daily equipment inspections and routine ...

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How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in Minnesota is $22.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.07 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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Excavation jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavation jobs in Minnesota?

For Excavation jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavation jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavation jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Excavation jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Excavation job openings:

Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,618 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc. is a third generation, family owned, general road contracting company serving Minnesota and the Dakotas. We take pride in the reputation we have built for providing responsive customer service, on the job safety, efficient and high-quality products and services. Our skilled workforce of 425+ employees is dedicated to quality and excellence. It's the pride our employees take in their work that keeps CSI at the top of the industry.

What sets us apart!

  • Family owned and operated
  • Best equipment and technology
  • Building the best roads start to finish

Benefits of joining our team!

  • Traveling throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Winters off
  • Working outdoors
  • Company paid training opportunities
  • We promote from within

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to perform various excavation and earthmoving tasks. This role involves ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the excavator, inspecting and maintaining equipment, and adhering to project specifications and safety regulations.

Requirements:

  • Must be able to travel throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Regular, consistent attendance and regular overtime at all assigned job sites.
  • Valid Driver's License, preferably Class A.
  • Acceptable motor vehicle record.
  • Previous heavy equipment operating experience.
  • Strong mechanical skills.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
  • Physical strength and endurance to perform all principal duties and responsibilities

Responsibilities:

  • Maneuver the excavator safely and accurately to avoid damage to property, underground utilities, or other equipment.
  • While operating equipment, maintain clear and effective communication with the site supervisor, team members, and ground personnel using verbal and non-verbal hand signals.
  • Prioritize safety at all times, following company and industry safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Perform routine maintenance on the excavator, such as greasing, checking fluid levels, and cleaning the equipment.
  • Operate excavators to dig trenches, and other excavations following project blueprints and instructions.
  • Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions.
  • Performs other tasks as needed.

Benefits:

  • Group Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • 401 (k) Company Match
  • 401(k) Company Discretionary Contribution
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Employee Sick and Safe Time (Part-time and seasonal employees)
  • Per Diem
  • Electronic Direct Deposit

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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